Les Menuires is one of our favourite French destinations when it comes to skiing in winter. But this article is all about the other winter activities you can do in this ski village. On days when the mountains are foggy, or when it’s absolutely dumping with snow, not everyone feels like heading out onto the slopes. These are exactly the kind of days on a ski holiday that are perfect for trying something else in Les Menuires. And you can take it in any direction: from staying active to fully switching off. Read on to discover the best winter activities!
1. Roc'n Bob: a 4-kilometer toboggan run
If you ask me which winter activity is guaranteed to bring a big smile to your face, it's the Roc'n Bob. In other words, the 4 kilometer long toboggan run that you can toboggan down in your sled. In total, the toboggan run has 22 curves, some sharper and steeper than others. This means that you have to be able to judge how to negotiate the curves. For example, full on the brakes, or full throttle. With a group this is a very fun activity to do, because you automatically become fanatical. Everyone also has a different tactic, which adds to the atmosphere of the discussion. Make sure you have a camera handy, because bloopers are not out of the question while tobogganing down the mountain.
Tip: if you can, go at a time when it is quieter, you might have the toboggan run to yourself. Towards the end of the day most people go, so try to be just ahead of this.
The toboggan run is open Monday through Friday during school vacations, and Tuesday through Friday outside school vacations from 2:30 to 6:45 pm. You can rent a sled from 7 years old and 125 cm accompanied by an adult in the same sled. Sleds can be rented at the outlet of gondola elevator Roc 1.
2. Take a snowshoe hike through the white landscape
f you love skiing or snowboarding, you already enjoy breathtaking mountain panoramas from the slopes. But to experience the winter landscape from a completely different perspective, a snowshoe hike is highly recommended. Unlike the busy ski runs, snowshoeing lets you immerse yourself in the peaceful, quiet winter scenery, discovering the mountains in a unique and unforgettable way.
At the ski rental shops in Les Menuires, you can rent winter snowshoes that attach to your mountain boots or waterproof moon boots. There are different types available, allowing you to walk on prepared trails or venture into deep, untouched snow for a true winter adventure.
The important thing is to choose a route that suits you. There are laid-back walks through the valley that take you past authentic mountain villages like Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, as well as treks where you'll make serious altitude gains. Check this document for hiking trails in and around Les Menuires.
3. Walking through the snow (without snowshoes)
Of course, not every activity in Les Menuires has to be an intense winter sport. Sometimes, a simple walk through the snow is already magical. Just stepping outside for some fresh air, leaving your stiff ski boots behind, or even taking a stroll with your dog, and returning indoors with rosy cheeks, it’s all part of the charm. In the document linked at point 2, you’ll also find plenty of trails perfect for walking without snowshoes.
4. Book a biathlon clinic: cross-country skiing and shooting
Cross-country skiing often looks smooth and effortless, until you try it yourself. When I swapped my regular skis for cross-country skis on a foggy day in Les Menuires, I quickly realized how different the balance feels. It takes some practice to get the hang of it, but it’s a great way to engage different muscles and take a break from downhill skiing. Make no mistake, cross-country skiing is a truly sporty winter activity that offers both a challenge and a unique way to enjoy the snowy landscape.
At ESF Les Menuires, you can book a biathlon clinic, a winter sport activity that combines cross-country skiing with rifle shooting. You may recognize it from the Winter Olympics, but here you can try it yourself under expert guidance.
You get an explanation of how cross-country skiing works and, of course, start practicing on the trail yourself. First on one leg, then on your other leg, and also without poles, until you have complete control.
Then comes the most exciting and challenging part of the biathlon: the shooting. You need to control your heart rate and breathing, and once you’re steady, you can aim at the targets. At just 10 meters away, even this can be tricky! If you’re looking for a unique winter activity in Les Menuires that’s different from the usual skiing or snowboarding, a biathlon clinic is a must-try.
5. Schedule a wellness day
After a day of cold, wind, and exertion, few things feel better than ending with some wellness. Warm up, relax your muscles, and clear your mind. Many ski resorts in Les Menuires offer heated pools or saunas, but only a few places let you truly book a dedicated wellness experience for yourself.
My recommendation? La Bulle Pool & Spa in Les Menuires. You can reach it via the free shuttle (line B) from the village to Les Bruyères, or by car. Since it’s very popular during the winter months, it’s best to make a reservation in advance.
Tip: book your wellness at the end of the day, then finish with dinner at La Marmite restaurant which is less than a 5-minute walk from the wellness center.
6. First Track: be first on the slopes during sunrise
This might be the most special experience for avid skiers in Les Menuires! With the First Track experience, you head up the mountain before opening time for an exclusive first run on freshly groomed slopes, guided by professionals. You start at sunrise at the Pointe de la Massa gondola, ski down a perfectly groomed blue run, and finish with breakfast at the top of the mountain. With a bit of luck, you’ll enjoy a stunning sunrise over Les 3 Vallées.
First Track runs every Wednesday morning, though it may be canceled in bad weather. Participants must be at least 8 years old and, of course, advanced skiers. Want to be the first down the slopes? Then book your First Track winter activity.
More inspiration and winter tips for Les Menuires
Planning your winter sports trip to Les Menuires? I recommend first reading my detailed article on winter sports in Les Menuires. There, I share all the practical tips you need before your trip: from skiing and routes in Les 3 Vallées to cozy restaurants, hotel recommendations, costs, and accessibility.
Hotel tips Les Menuires
If you want to book a hotel or chalet in Les Menuires, it’s important to pay attention to the location. This ski village is ideal for a relaxing ski holiday, thanks to its ski-in, ski-out options. Personally, I always check whether a hotel or chalet is close to the lifts and/or slopes, and of course, the price is also an important factor.
During my winter sports holiday, I stayed at Hotel Alpeen in Les Menuires. This cozy and comfortable 3-star hotel offers true ski-in, ski-out convenience and a fantastic central location in the village. You’re just minutes away from the lifts, shops, and all the village amenities.
Also, be sure to check package deals for a winter sports holiday in Les Menuires. These often include attractive offers with the ski pass included, making your trip even easier and more convenient.
France as the ideal holiday destination: in summer and winter
What's so great about France is that you can actually go all year round for a vacation. In winter you come for the snow and the mountains, but in summer those same mountains are suddenly a totally different world: green mountain meadows, hiking trails with views and villages full of colorful flowers.
Do you feel like exploring France further? Then La Rosière ski resort in France maybe something for you, too. And also read our tips for the Opal Coast where you stand between rugged cliffs and wide beaches. Immerse yourself in the fairytale French village of Gerberoy, or plan a city trip to Paris. It's a city that never bores, and even if you've already seen all the sights, there is so much more to discover in the French capital. Then again, the ultimate tip: Experience a summer in the mountains of Vallée des Belleville!
