What to do in spring in Haute Maurienne Vanoise ?
Spring: The Secret Season of the Alps
In the spring, the Haute Maurienne Vanoise a calmer, more intimate side. Nestled between snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys, this is the perfect time to enjoy a more accessible and authentic mountain experience.
Whether you love the great outdoors, are curious about local heritage, or are looking for an adrenaline rush, spring offers an exceptional playground. Here are some activities to discover!
Walks and hikes: the best time to go
In the spring, and especially starting in June, the Haute Maurienne Vanoise an ideal place for hiking. The trails in the valley and at mid-altitude are accessible, while the high-altitude trails begin to open up.
It’s also a particularly good time for backpacking trips, which are often very popular in the summer. Iconic trails like the Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise or the GR5 can be explored in quieter conditions, with more availability at the mountain huts.
Watching wildlife as nature awakens
Spring is the perfect time to observe mountain animals without disturbing them. After winter, marmots, ibex, and chamois reappear and are much easier to spot than in summer. With fewer people in the mountains, the animals are less afraid of encountering us!
For example, in Val Cenis, on the Mont Cenis Pass side, marmots are everywhere along the road in May and June. In L’Orgère, in the heart of the Vanoise National Park, you might spot ibex in the valley, just a few dozen meters away from you.
Restaurants open in Haute Maurienne Vanoise
In the spring, the Haute Maurienne Vanoise whole new Haute Maurienne Vanoise .Whether you're just passing through, on vacation, or a local, here are some great places to eat this spring in Haute Maurienne Vanoise.
Getting back on a bike in the heart of the Alps
As the snow gradually melts, roads and trails become accessible. From legendary mountain passes to valley routes, mountain biking to road cycling: spring marks the return of mountain biking.
Don't miss: the bike climbs through walls of snow as soon as the Col de l'Iseran opens at Bonneval-sur-Arc. A must-see for all cycling enthusiasts. Or, on the Val Cenis side, a more secluded route featuring the Bellecombe climb. Over 1,000 meters of elevation gain to reach the heart of the Vanoise National Park!
Try your hand at mountain sports
Spring ushers in a wide range of outdoor sports activities. Via ferrata, rock climbing, paragliding , rafting… the season is perfect for your first thrills. Certified instructors offer excursions suitable for all skill levels.
Explore a unique heritage in a peaceful setting
Impressive The Esseillon Fortresses between Aussois and La Norma, Baroque churches and chapels, rock engravings scattered across the mountain pastures… In the spring, these cultural sites can be explored away from the crowds, in a special atmosphere.
Be sure to check out the local museums, which open in mid-May:
Ski differently with spring skiing
At high altitudes, the skiing isn't over yet!Ski touring, supervised by professionals, allows you to extend the pleasures of skiing while enjoying an immersive experience. Some outings include a night in a guarded refuge, for a complete adventure between sport and disconnection.
An Italian getaway as soon as the Mont Cenis pass opens
When the Col du Mont Cenis road reopens reopens, usually on the second Friday in May, it's time to cross the border for a day in Italy.
Whether you're looking for a stroll, a visit to the lake or simply a coffee on the Italian side of the terrace, spring offers a wonderful escape between two beautiful Alpine cultures.
Book your spring accommodation now
Find out more about our furnished accommodation available for this period! Our reservations department will be happy to help you with your search on 04 79 05 99 10.
Book your accommodation and leisure activities in Haute Maurienne Vanoise
What to do in spring in Haute Maurienne Vanoise ?
Hiking, ski touring, biking through snow-covered landscapes, watching marmots emerge from hibernation, exploring local heritage, and outdoor activities such as via ferrata and paragliding.
Why visit the mountains in the spring?
To enjoy a quieter mountain setting, with a mix of snow and nature. May and June are spectacular, with fields and mountain pastures covered in thousands of wildflowers (farmers usually mow them in late June).
Can you still go skiing in the spring?
Yes, the slopes are open until mid-April in Val Cenis, and even until the end of April in Bonneval-sur-Arc. Then there’s ski touring in May, since spring is the “traditional” season for ski touring.
Are stores open in the spring?
While many businesses are closed after the long winter season, there are always restaurants and shops offering basic services during the off-season: the Haute Maurienne Vanoise inhabited year-round!
Discover all the restaurants, caterers, and food trucks open this spring in Haute Maurienne Vanoise.
Is there a bus service in the spring?
Yes, a bus service is available in the spring in the Haute Maurienne Vanoise region. Spring buses require advance booking (no later than 12:00 PM the day before your trip by calling 04 79 05 26 67).
Spring bus round-trip fare: 4 euros.
Book of 10 rides: 15 euros.