Relax and Indulge: La Plagne Without the Slopes

It’s the most popular ski resort in the world, with around 2.5 million guests each season. But there’s more here than just pistes, snowparks and catered chalets. La Plagneis a perfect destination for a break even if you have no interest in throwing yourself down a mountain. Read on for some of what’s on offer.

Massages and Salons

It’s all well and good to seek out challenging slopes and dangerous off-piste. But some prefer to relax when they’re on holiday. And what better way to do that than by heading down to a salon for some pampering? Set in the idyllic mountain environment of the resort, these treatment centres will really make you feel special. Trained physios offer deep-treating massages, while the Espace Aqualudique Padadisio promotes ‘aquatic fun and wellness’. It’s bliss.

Indoor Activities

Once you’ve spoilt yourself with an indulgent massage, you might want to head out on the town – after all, why waste your time away lounging around the catered chalets? La Plagne is a large resort with a lot to offer, including a large number of clubs and bars in its bustling centre. There’s also an ice rink, heated swimming pools (one indoor and one outdoor), and a bowling alley with a bar and games room. Any and all of these would make a great place to socialise and unwind. And if you still find yourself keen to work up a sweat, the sports centre offers a staggering range of activities, including tennis, volleyball, handball, basketball and badminton.

Huskies and Snowmobiles

So you can’t ski – or maybe you’d just rather not. There’s no reason that should stop you from experiencing the thrills and sights of the mountains. Sleds pulled by huskies give you a unique way to travel, and you can even drive the sled yourself. If you’d rather sit back and take in the sights, you can also take a guided tour.

Before you talk yourself into hitting the bar or retiring for the night to the catered chalets, La Plagnehas one more unforgettable night time experience on offer. After the runs close for the day, you can go out on one of several exciting excursions, driving snowmobiles all around the mountain. You can again choose to drive or ride as a passenger, and the guided tours treat you to some truly jaw-dropping views.

The Pierre Borrione Museum

With all the area’s development as a holiday destination, it can be easy to forget that this area was inhabited long before the piste-bashers and chairlifts came. This fascinating museum helps you rectify that, offering a range of exhibits focused on the nearby town of Aime. Under 16s go free, while older guests can get in for a bargain €3. Once inside, artefacts range from the Neolithic era to the present day, showing the development of human settlement in the region, all the way through Aime’s boom as a mining town and its present renaissance as part of the resort.

Accommodation

Plagne Centre is by far the busiest of the ten or so villages that make up La Plagne. Happily, it’s also the one with the most to do, benefiting from the liveliest bars and best restaurants.

Still, it’s not particularly pretty. For something more attractive, head to La Plagne 1800, which has a decent nightlife of its own as well as quick and easy lift connections to the centre. With its catered chalets, La Plagne1800 is hugely popular among Brits especially.

Finally, something a little different. Further out lies the traditional alpine village of Champagny en Vanoise. It boasts an authentic, quiet mountain aesthetic and some more top-range chalets. It’s also usually a little cheaper, as skiers pay more to be close to the slopes.

With all this on offer, a ski holiday without the skiing starts to sound more and more appealing. Start booking your winter getaway now!  

Author Plate

Tim Heal is the founder of Chaletline, a travel agency offering catered chalet accommodation in worldwide ski resorts. With an extensive knowledge of resorts and excellent post booking care, they pride themselves on the personal touch they offer to each and every client. If you're looking for a catered chalets, La Plagne is just one of the superb ski resorts in which they can quickly and efficiently match you with the perfect accommodation. Catering for individuals, couples and groups up to 50, the knowledgeable Chaletline team will help you choose the right chalet in the right resort.