Bonneval-sur-Arc combines an alpine ski area with the protected hamlet of L'Écot, an easy route through the mountain landscape, and special winter activities. When looking for hotels in Bonneval-Sur-Arc, first consider whether skiing and other winter experiences or trails and local culture should be the focus. Both options reveal distinct sides of the village.
Skiing and Winter Activities
The alpine ski area of Bonneval-sur-Arc has 26 slopes. An introductory ski touring outing led by a ski school takes you from Bonneval-sur-Arc to the Vallonnet Glacier. The ski touring route to the glacier is also considered accessible; it has an elevation gain of at least 150 meters. The guided outing and the information about elevation gain and accessibility describe different aspects of ski touring.
In winter, numerous ice cascades form between the village of Bonneval-sur-Arc and the hamlet of L'Écot. Ice climbing on the cascades between the village and hamlet is considered accessible even without previous climbing experience. The ESF invites visitors to try a traditional sledding experience on a Paret; Paret sledding is considered accessible to everyone aged five and over. Check the current participation requirements before taking part.
Trails, Village and Mountain Culture
The easy Montée de l'Écot connects Bonneval-sur-Arc with the hamlet of L'Écot. Trail conditions may vary depending on the season. Along the way, the route passes the Chapelle Sainte Marguerite, built in the 12th century, and offers views of the village and surrounding peaks. Those looking to combine a hike with a specific destination and historical points of interest will find all these elements along the same route.
L'Écot has been designated a protected site since 1971 and is a testament to authentic mountain culture. The Église Notre-Dame de l'Assomption is located in the historic center of Bonneval-sur-Arc. The hamlet and the church thus offer two different ways to explore local history: a mountain village designated as a protected site and a building in the historic center.
Landscape and Season
The Grand-Méan Glacier ends at an impressive ice wall that plunges into clear water dotted with drifting icebergs. This landscape offers a different experience from the trails through the village and to L'Écot.
At L'Iserane, the mountain pass road is reserved for cyclists for one morning each year at the beginning of summer. They start in Bonneval-sur-Arc or Val d'Isère and meet at the pass, at an altitude of more than 2,700 meters. As the exact date may change, check it before your trip. Thus, the annual calendar sets winter skiing and ice activities against a cycling day at the start of summer.
Getting There and Local Food
Bus S53 takes travelers from Modane train station to Bonneval-sur-Arc in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This journey time is an estimate for traveling by bus; check the timetable and current connections before your trip.
The local cuisine also offers a direct connection to the village: Bleu de Bonneval-sur-Arc can be enjoyed year-round on its own with a slice of bread, with a glass of wine, or cooked. When planning, you can therefore include a local specialty alongside winter activities, hiking trails, and local history, without trying to fit every experience into a single day.
Discover more destinations: Demi-Quartier, Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards, La Ravoire, Belmont-Tramonet, Novalaise, Les Chapelles, Aime, Saint-Bon-Tarentaise.
View the main travel overview: Savoie.
