Serre Chevalier Valley : the guide by Sandrine & Philippe
From our hamlet of Pramorel, we've been exploring this valley forever, in every season. Here's our view of it, to help you plan your stay.
Serre Chevalier Valley isn't a resort, it's a whole valley : eleven hamlets nestled between 1,200 m and 2,057 m of altitude, in the northern Southern Alps, at the very top of the Hautes-Alpes. Each has its own character, its own spots, its own rhythm.
This guide isn't a simple tourist overview. It's what we've learned from living here, season after season, and what we share with every traveller who stays at Chalet Mont Milo.
Who we are
Sandrine & Philippe, a family of five with a passion for the mountains. Our ancestors have lived in Briançon for generations, and we ourselves have been coming to this valley since childhood. Season after season, we've explored the slopes, tried the restaurants, walked the trails and gotten to know the people who bring this valley to life.
A valley between Provence and high mountains
In the northern Southern Alps, a stone's throw from Italy, at the very top of the Hautes-Alpes, just below the Col du Lautaret, the Serre Chevalier valley stretches for 27.7 km down to Briançon. It climbs from 1,200 m in Briançon up to the Col du Galibier, at 2,642 m, under the gaze of the glaciers of the Écrins National Park. And yet, it keeps the singing accent and the sunshine of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
Serre Chevalier Valley is the only ski resort in France set against a town of over 10,000 residents, Briançon. A UNESCO-listed heritage site, unspoiled scenery and over 300 days of sunshine a year : few alpine valleys bring all of this together.
Discover Serre Chevalier in winter
Discover Serre Chevalier in summer
The Faces of Serre Chevalier Valley: From the Valley to the Glacier
The valley's strength lies in its diversity. Each village has its own architecture, its own mood, its own pace. Understanding this layout helps in planning a stay, whether you're here for the skiing or to take your time in summer in the mountains.
- ❄The lively villages (1,350 m – 1,420 m) : Chantemerle and Villeneuve, the resort hubs, a lively snow front and evening buzz.
- ❄The unspoiled hamlets (1,400 m – 1,500 m) : Le Monêtier and Pramorel, away from the bustle, between hot springs and old-world architecture.
- ❄The town (1,200 m) : Briançon, the highest town in France, its fortified old town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its year-round local life.
A network of shuttles and lifts connects every area, so you can move from one mood to another in just a few minutes.
Briançon, the hamlet of Pramorel, why it's the insiders' address
We chose Pramorel as our base camp, at 1,400 m of altitude, for its peace and its strategic location. An old hamlet of the Briançonnais, whose Saint-Jean-Baptiste chapel dates back to the 16th century, it has kept a human scale and a rare timber architecture.
This is where you'll find the "cosy" spirit of the valley, sheltered from the wind and the crowds, with a larch forest as your garden. Just 5 minutes by car from the Chantemerle and Prorel lifts, and from central Briançon.
Alpine living : where to eat, go out and shop in Serre Chevalier Valley
Serre Chevalier Valley is a food-lover's destination, if you know where to stop. Here are the addresses we recommend, the ones where quality meets the warmth of alpine hospitality.
- ❄Our favourite tables : L'Orée du Bois in Le Bez, our top gastronomic pick, L'Échaillon, a must for its panoramic view over the resort, and our partner Brasserie La Tourmente for a craft beer after skiing.
- ❄Everyday essentials : Intermarché Briançon for your first grocery run, Boulangerie Alef for fresh bread and pastries, and Skimium, our partner for ski equipment rental.
Explore Serre Chevalier Valley
Alpine art of living
