Rhêmes-Notre-Dame

The resort has 7 km of alpine skiing slopes, six of which are covered by snowmaking. The main ski area is located in the hamlet of Chanavey and extends roughly from 1,690 to 2,200 metres above sea level: although limited in size, it offers an interesting vertical drop and slopes of varying difficulty.

The ski area includes blue, red and black runs. The easiest slopes are suitable for those consolidating their technique, while the red runs and some steeper sections also offer plenty of enjoyment for intermediate and advanced skiers. The Franco Berthod Stadium and the Mirtilli, Plan du Bois and Canavesan slopes make up a small but varied ski terrain, particularly appreciated for its tranquillity and the almost complete absence of queues.

The ski area is served by the Chanavey four-seater chairlift, built in 2013 and equipped with a loading carpet, with a capacity of around 1,200 people per hour. It is a fixed-grip lift and therefore not particularly fast, but relatively recent and well suited to the size of the resort. At the bottom there is also a conveyor belt around 100 metres long, reserved for the ski school area.

A second family area is located at Bruil, near the main village. The Gipeto Playground is served by three conveyor belts and offers descents on inflatable tubes, snow bikes, ski foxes and other equipment for enjoying the snow. Its separation from the main slopes creates a protected environment that is particularly suitable for children and first-time skiers.

Rhêmes-Notre-Dame also offers around 17 km of cross-country skiing trails, spread across the broad valley floor and larch forests. The loops run between Chanavey, Bruil, Pellaud and Thumel, passing through some of the valley’s most scenic corners and offering routes of varying difficulty.

Val di Rhêmes is also a destination known for ski touring. The routes towards Entrelor, the Sort and Chaussettaz valleys and Rifugio Benevolo allow visitors to explore a wilder mountain environment, to be tackled with suitable preparation and careful assessment of conditions. Snowshoeing through the forests and numerous icefalls frequented by climbing enthusiasts complete the offering.

Rhêmes-Notre-Dame is not suited to those looking for many kilometres of slopes, fast lifts or a lively après-ski scene. It is instead an appealing choice for families, beginners and skiers wishing to spend a few days on the snow in a compact, affordable and authentic resort, surrounded by the silence and wide-open spaces of Gran Paradiso.