Off-Piste Activities in Serre Chevalier Valley, Family Fun & Thrills
The mountain, differently
What can you do in Serre Chevalier Valley in winter without skiing? Here are our favourite activities from Briançon, between wellness, nature and thrills.
While the Serre Chevalier Valley ski area is famous for its slopes, it also offers just as vast a playground for those wanting to experience winter differently. From Chalet Mont Milo in Briançon, we've handpicked authentic, sporty or contemplative experiences for you. From the adrenaline of the giant zip line to the serenity of the larch forests, here's our guide to the best winter activities in Serre Chevalier Valley and Briançon.
A word from the owners of Chalet Mont Milo
"Because winter in the mountains is a celebration for everyone, we put together this guide to share our favourite finds. From the thrill of paragliding to gentle snowshoe walks, we share with you the art of living winter at Chalet Mont Milo. Welcome to our retreat."
Sandrine & Philippe
Contents of your off-piste stay at Mont Milo
❄️ Snowshoeing
❄️ Wellness
❄️ Sledging
❄️ Dog sledding
❄️ Paragliding
Want to enjoy all these experiences from a private chalet in the heart of the valley? Discover our chalet rental in Serre Chevalier Valley for a different way to experience the mountains.
❄️ Snowshoeing: The Larch Forest of Briançon
Snowshoe hiking is our favourite activity beyond the slopes. The larch forest surrounding Briançon turns into a fairytale setting in winter: absolute silence, light filtering through snow-covered branches, and wild animal tracks in the fresh snow. Our edge: your routes start right from the chalet.
The Prorel forest, straight from the chalet
Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours · For all levels
Our signature route. You set off on foot from the chalet, climbing gently through the larches towards the Prorel. A splendid view over the Guisane Valley rewards you at the top. The ideal choice for a refreshing morning before heading to the hot springs.
The Chantemerle loop, ideal for families
Just 5 minutes by car · Duration: 2 hours
A marked loop perfectly suited to family outings. The scenery alternates gently between protected forest and sunny alpine meadows. Little ones love looking for animal tracks in the snow. To plan the perfect multigenerational stay, check out our family holiday guide.
The Guisane Valley
Starts in Chantemerle · Duration: half a day · Intermediate level
A beautiful hike along the river, right at the heart of the valley. The scenery is grandiose, with the majestic snow-capped Écrins peaks as a backdrop. Our recommendation for a full, memorable outing in the fresh air.
Our tip
Head out in the morning, the light on the Écrins is incomparable and the snow still untouched.
Rentals & guides
Snowshoes can be rented from our partner Skimium in Briançon, with negotiated rates for Chalet Mont Milo guests. For unmarked trails, local guides are essential.
Skimium Briançon, book Briançon Mountain Guides Office
❄️ Wellness: Les Grands Bains du Monêtier & Spa La Rotonde
In Le Monêtier, the valley's highest village, Les Grands Bains stand out as the most iconic natural hot springs in the Southern Alps, a few kilometres from the chalet. With their large indoor and outdoor pools offering direct views of the snow-capped peaks, it's the dream spot to unwind after a great day outdoors. And to extend that moment once back at the chalet, our private sauna is waiting for you.
Monêtier-les-Bains · Open all season · From age 3
The establishment is built around two large natural hot-spring areas: a vast indoor pool beneath a striking timber roof, and a large outdoor pool in the open air. Both are fitted with jacuzzis, bubble loungers, massage jets and bubbling baths. Steam rooms complete the setting for a perfect recovery.
Spa La Rotonde, new for winter 2026-2027
Part of Les Grands Bains · Reserved for guests aged 16 and over
A new space entirely dedicated to upscale wellness. This intimate setting opens for the first time to offer exclusive saunas, bespoke treatment journeys and a soothing atmosphere. A true cocoon of serenity designed for deep relaxation.
Our insider tip: the secret of dusk
We recommend going around 6pm, just as night falls and the first stars appear above the valley. From the warmth of the outdoor pool, the view over the snow-capped Écrins is absolutely striking. A moment of pure alpine poetry.
Book your entry to Les Grands BainsBooking online is strongly recommended to guarantee access, especially for treatments and the Spa La Rotonde.
❄️ Sledging: The Meadows of Pramorel
Guaranteed fun for young and old alike. The snow-covered meadows surrounding the chalet turn naturally into safe sledging slopes: the adventure starts right on our doorstep.
Right at the chalet, sledges provided
Hamlet of Pramorel · Immediate access · All ages
We provide several sledges for memorable family races and big bursts of laughter. The gentle slope right by the chalet is perfect for little ones, while the steeper stretches will thrill the grown-ups. A spontaneous, friendly and unforgettable activity, a true Pramorel tradition.
❄️ Ice Rink & Swimming Pool: Briançon
For a change of scenery, the town of Briançon offers two superb ice and water complexes, just 5 minutes from the chalet. Reliable choices for families, ideal for filling an afternoon or rounding off a great day outdoors.
La Patinoire René Froger in Briançon
Town centre · Open all winter season · From age 2
This covered ice rink welcomes you for memorable skating sessions. Skate rental is available on site. It's the perfect activity for a fun afternoon, kids love it and adults rediscover the joy of gliding on ice.
You might even catch a match of the Diables Rouges de Briançon, the town's historic ice hockey team, currently playing in France's top league (Ligue Magnus). The atmosphere is electric, festive and warm, a genuine local sporting experience we highly recommend.
Le Centre Aquatique de Briançon
Town centre · Open all year · Play area & slides
The aquatic centre is built around a large olympic-size swimming pool and an area entirely dedicated to families, with slides and play trails. A great option for fun in perfectly heated water. Children come out with beaming smiles, eager to get back to the comfort of the chalet.
❄️ Dog Sledding: The Great North Adventure
Treat yourself to a Great North experience right in the heart of the Alps. Pulled by a team of huskies, you glide smoothly through the silence of the snowy landscape, guided by a passionate professional musher. One of the valley's most sought-after activities, be sure to book well ahead.
At Le Pontillas (La Salle-les-Alpes)
Just 15 minutes from the chalet · From age 3
The valley's leading provider offers two tailored formulas: the taster ride, comfortably seated in the sled while you let yourself be guided and take in the scenery, or the driving lesson, where you take the reins yourself and step into the shoes of a real musher. A timeless, magical moment that will stay with the children. Our comfort tip: dress the whole family in your warmest winter clothes to fully enjoy the fresh air throughout the ride.
Enjoy all these activities from Pramorel, 5 minutes from Briançon and the Serre Chevalier Valley slopes.
Check availability and book your holiday❄️ Giant Zip Line: Soar Over Serre Chevalier Valley
For thrill-seekers, the Serre Chevalier Giant Zip Line is an experience to try at least once. From the summit at 2,491 m, fly solo or in tandem at over 100 km/h, with a guaranteed 360° panoramic view over the Écrins National Park.
Giant Zip Line, Chantemerle
2,491 m altitude · Solo or tandem · From 25 kg · Booking recommended
From Le Grand Serre, take a deep breath and launch into a dizzying descent. A radar clocks your speed at the finish, and a souvenir photo awaits you. A few seconds of pure, unforgettable thrill.
❄️ Snow Trail Running: Racing on the Snow
The Briançon area stands as one of the historic birthplaces of snow trail running in France. Every winter, three renowned events take place across our valley and its surroundings, to the delight of runners of all levels.
Trail Blanc Vauban by Night (Briançon)
January · Briançon · 7 km and 14 km routes · Night atmosphere
A magical night race set within the famous Vauban fortifications of Briançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Two distances are on offer: a 7 km route ideal for newcomers, and a 14 km loop for experienced runners. The atmosphere is enchanting, set to the glow of head torches under a starry sky, with the illuminated citadel as a backdrop.
Serre Che Snow Trail (La Salle-les-Alpes)
January · La Salle-les-Alpes · 8 km (night), 10 km and 20 km formats
The winter edition of the famous Serre Che Trail Salomon. The event offers three tailored formats: a lively night trail on Saturday evening (8 km) and two daytime races on Sunday (10 km and 20 km with 1,000 m of elevation gain). The main route climbs through the Guisane Valley towards the Col du Granon, revealing breathtaking views.
The Montgenèvre Snowrace
February · Montgenèvre · 8 km and 17 km routes · 30 minutes from the chalet
The oldest resort in France hosts one of the finest snow races in the Hautes-Alpes. Two fully snow-covered routes await you: the Rocher Dizeur (8 km, 350 m elevation gain) to get started gently, and the Tour des Bois (17 km, 650 m elevation gain) winding through larches, ridges and woodland. A unique experience facing the splendour of the Durance Valley.
❄️ Paragliding: Soar Over Serre Chevalier Valley
For a spectacular perspective over the Guisane Valley and the surrounding peaks, paragliding is a must-try experience. Take-off happens right from the resort's summits, revealing a breathtaking 360° panorama over the Alps, all alongside a professional instructor. This activity is open to everyone, from your very first flight.
Tandem flight with a professional instructor
Briançon / Chantemerle sector · Open all season · From age 7
Your pilot takes care of everything, you simply enjoy the moment. Take-off is easy, whether on skis or on foot from the resort's ridges. Depending on your mood, two formulas are available: the contemplative flight, perfect for soaking up the calm of the panoramas, the valley and the alpine villages, or the thrill flight, ideal if you're after a more dynamic ride through the sky. A majestic way to admire the vastness of Serre Chevalier Valley from above, before returning to the comfort of your chalet.
FAQ: Off-Piste Activities in Serre Chevalier Valley
What activities can we enjoy in Serre Chevalier Valley besides skiing?
Serre Chevalier Valley offers a wide range of experiences to make the most of the mountains. Highlights include snowshoe walks through the larch forest right from Chalet Mont Milo, sledging in the meadows of Pramorel, dog sledding, tandem paragliding, the giant zip line, the covered ice rink and aquatic centre in Briançon, and relaxing at the hot springs of Les Grands Bains du Monêtier. The valley is also known for its cross-country ski loops and marked trails suitable for everyone.
How should we plan a relaxing break at Les Grands Bains du Monêtier?
The establishment offers flexible 2-hour or 3-hour packages, with dedicated access for adults and adapted rates for children (from age 3). Access to the new Spa La Rotonde is reserved for guests aged 16 and over. To plan your wellness moment with peace of mind, we recommend booking directly online on the official Les Grands Bains website. From Chalet Mont Milo, you'll reach this haven of relaxation in just 15 minutes by car.
Where can we go snowshoeing in Serre Chevalier Valley with children?
The great advantage of Chalet Mont Milo is having wonderful family-friendly routes starting right from the hamlet of Pramorel, letting you set off on foot with total ease. The trail winding through the larch forest is perfectly suited from age 4, thanks to its gentle terrain and clear markings. For those wanting to go higher, the Chantemerle lifts open the way to superb high-altitude routes facing the Grand Aréa. For your equipment, our partner Skimium Briançon offers preferential rates negotiated exclusively for you.
Is there an ice rink near the chalet?
Yes, the town of Briançon, just 5 minutes from the chalet, is home to a superb covered, climate-controlled olympic-size ice rink, open throughout the winter season. It welcomes children from age 2, with skate rental and learner aids available on site. It's the ideal activity for a fun get-together after a great morning outdoors. It's also home to the Diables Rouges de Briançon, the town's elite hockey team, and we highly recommend cheering them on at a home match with the family.
Can you go cross-country skiing in Serre Chevalier Valley?
Absolutely. The valley boasts a remarkable Nordic network of 44 kilometres of groomed trails linking Chantemerle to Monêtier. We invite you to check out our dedicated ski guide for all the sites, skill levels and our local tips.
What activities are recommended for very young children?
The valley is a true paradise for little ones. Sledging fun starts from age 2 on the gentle slopes surrounding the chalet, with equipment freely provided. The covered ice rink in Briançon also welcomes children from age 2. Enchanting dog sledding rides and the main pool at Les Grands Bains du Monêtier are accessible from age 3, while first snowshoe steps through the forest can begin safely from age 4.
Is it best to book activities in advance?
For total peace of mind, we recommend booking certain high-demand experiences as soon as your chalet stay is confirmed. This applies to dog sled rides, tandem paragliding flights and Spa La Rotonde treatments, especially during school holiday weeks. On the other hand, sledging and snowshoeing around the chalet are completely free and spontaneous, no booking needed. For Les Grands Bains, we recommend booking online to secure access to the magical dusk time slots.
What are the best indoor or sheltered activities?
The valley is full of comfortable options for enjoying every day, whatever the weather outside. Briançon's heated aquatic centre, the covered olympic-size ice rink, and the hot springs of Les Grands Bains du Monêtier welcome visitors all winter long. Our insider tip: save these activities for grey days and make the most of the many sunny ones, thanks to the region's 300 days of sunshine a year, for outdoor pursuits. At the chalet, the games room (pool, table football, air hockey) and the private sauna are your best allies for cosy evenings and snowy afternoons by the pellet stove.
Alpine art of living
