La Rosière, France
This lovely ski resort is often referred to as a little gem of a resort, it is fairly small compared to some of its neighbours, but that is part of its charm. It’s also known as the best-kept secret in the Tarentaise Valley as here in La Rosière the atmosphere is much more relaxed, it is a family friendly resort and holiday makers return year after year to this superb location. La Rosière was developed on the site of an old hamlet and has been linked for over thirty years to the nearby Italian resort of La Thuile, this picturesque ski resort is in South-eastern France; its location is in the commune of Montvalezan in the Savoie department at 1,850m (6,070ft) above sea level. It has wonderful south facing views across the valley to the ski resort of Les Arcs and its close neighbour is Val d’Isère which is a much larger ski resort by comparison to La Rosière. Offering 150km (93 miles) of piste, the whole ski area of Espace San Bernardo which includes La Thuile is suitable for all levels of skiers whether they are a beginner, intermediate or advanced. The slopes on the French side tend to be gentle and long whereas more challenging on the North face of the mountain in the Aosta Valley in Italy, skiing in both France and Italy gives the ultimate unique skiing experience. Favourable weather gives both sunny days and snow and the resort is renown for its place in the top ranking ski resorts in the Northern Alps for snowfall.
Chambery is the closest airport to La Rosière it is within 1 hour 45 minutes transfer time. Geneva will possibly be the better option to fly into for foreign holidaymakers and the transfer time is 2 hours. Transfers are via shuttle bus, private car hire or taxi. It is possible to catch the train from London to La Rosière if you prefer.
A common mistake made is that the ski resorts are only open during the winter months, this is not so. There is an abundance of fantastic summer sports on offer too such as mountain biking and cross country, trail and hiking, golf, cycling touring, paragliding, climbing, horse riding, tennis, archery and fishing. As if all the above is not enough there is an ice rink, cinema, bowling, cultural outings, library, fitness centre and sports hall and after full days of taking part in all those activities you can rest, rejuvenate and relax those tired and aching muscles at the spa. Apart from skiing, there are plenty of other activities the whole family can partake in at La Rosière, it’s difficult to know where to begin, you will most certainly be spoilt for choice! During the winter months, the following activities are available: ski touring, snowboard, sledge, yooner, snowshoes and walkers, cross country ski, paragliding, snow kiting, dog sledging, ice diving, ice driving and even helicopter flights. Themed nights and concerts are held which adds to the array of facilities of this perfect ski resort.
Time to think about après ski and what is on offer in the resort regarding socialising. Shopping is varied with lots of grocery, food markets and souvenir shops, ideal for when you prefer to dine at home some evenings you will find everything you need. There is a selection of cafes available as well as Italian coffee shops offering open sandwiches and snacks, hot dogs and savoury or sweet pastries. Restaurants will tingle and tantalise every taste bud from cosmopolitan and contemporary cuisine to burger bars, delicious grills, pizzerias, traditional and gourmet French and International favourites. There are an array of bars offering live music with an upbeat vibe and party atmosphere, you can have a cosy and relaxed evening or opt to dance yourself dizzy at the local night spot. Different themed bars from Tapas and wine bars, sports game bars, live music and the list goes on.
The facilities of this ski resort are exceptional it is ideal for families especially but that’s not to say that couples and groups of friends won’t have a great time here. The resort is suitable to visit during the summer and winter months with plenty to do even for the non-skiers in your party. La Rosière enables you to experience the very best of the two skiing cultures making this ski resort very desirable indeed. It will enchant you and you will return time and time again making it a firm family favourite holiday destination.