The 10 best off-piste ski itineraries in Les 3 Vallées

• Secured Zone: For those looking to discover freeride skiing with complete peace of mind, the Freeride Lab in Courchevel is the perfect route.

• Level: Easy, this route is designed for those who want to begin exploring off-piste skiing without taking on too much risk.

• Starting Altitude: 2700m, ensuring high-quality snow.

• Vertical Drop: 300m, ideal for a quick and enjoyable descent.

• Orientation: North-facing, providing cold and powdery snow.

• Panorama: The summit offers a majestic view of the Gebroulaz Glacier, a sight not to be missed.

• Open and consistent terrain, perfect for building confidence in off-piste skiing.

• Less crowded thanks to a 30-minute approach hike, offering a more exclusive experience.

• • Two descent options to add variety to your run.

• Non-Secured Zone: For intermediate skiers seeking adventure, Les Avals offers a wild and untouched setting.

• Level: Intermediate, ideal for those with some prior off-piste experience.

• Vertical Drop: 700m, providing a descent that allows you to fully enjoy the landscape.

• Orientation: North-east, often ensuring high-quality snow throughout the season.

• Panorama: Breathtaking views of the Portteta and Dent du Villard, two iconic peaks of the region.

• A wild valley that immerses you in pristine nature, far from the crowds.

• Return via a long cross-country trail, perfect for extending the experience and reconnecting with the ski area.

• • A safer option from the summit of the Pyramides, offering better orientation to enjoy the powder.

• Non-Secured Zone: This route is tailored for experts, where off-piste skiing means challenge and discovery.

• Level: Expert, requiring technical mastery and good physical condition.

• Starting Altitude: 2300m, offering a long and beautiful descent.

• Vertical Drop: 1000m, an impressive descent that traverses various types of terrain.

• Orientation: East, facing, providing splendid morning light.

• Panorama: Stunning views of Mont Blanc and the Vanoise massif, a breathtaking backdrop.

• A varied route with an open first section, followed by a passage through shrubs, and finishing in the forest.

• Highly playful terrain, ideal for those who enjoy technical and varied descents.

• • Return via the Brides-les-Bains gondola, for a smooth ride back after an intense descent.

• Non-Secured Zone: A perfect route for skiers seeking vast open spaces.

• Level: Easy, accessible to those new to off-piste skiing.

• Starting Altitude: 2500m, with a clear view over the valley.

• Vertical Drop: 900m, allowing for a long, smooth, and enjoyable descent.

• Orientation: West, facing, providing optimal sunlight in the late afternoon.

• Panorama: Unobstructed view of the Méribel valley, offering a unique visual experience.

• Wide, gentle slopes, ideal for skiers looking to start off-piste skiing in a safe environment.

• • A vast route where it's always possible to find fresh tracks, even after multiple runs.

• Non-Secured Zone: A route reserved for experts, featuring a descent through forests and clearings.

• Level: Expert, requiring excellent technical skills and a keen sense of direction.

• Vertical Drop: 1200m, one of the longest and most demanding descents in the area.

• Orientation: North, facing, often preserving cold, high-quality snow.

• Terrain through forests and clearings, offering a unique challenge with often technical snow conditions.

A rare route, in condition only 1 to 2 times per season, making it an exclusive and precious experience for the initiated.

• Non-Secured Zone: A route for intermediate skiers looking for a freestyle playground.

• Level: Intermediate, with varied options for freeride enthusiasts.

• Starting Altitude: 2800m, ensuring good snow conditions.

• Vertical Drop: 800m, perfect for exploring different lines and sequences.

• Orientation: North-east, generally preserving well-kept snow.

• Panorama: Direct view of Val Thorens and the Alps, offering a grand spectacle.

• Freeride-oriented terrain with numerous playful passages, ideal for thrill-seekers.

• Stunning panorama of both the Northern and Southern Alps, providing visual delight throughout the descent.

• • First run recommended for scouting lines and sequences, followed by a second run to fully let loose.

• Non-Secured Zone: A continuous descent for intermediate skiers, offering an open and captivating terrain.

• Level: Intermediate, perfect for those looking to explore a wild valley.

• Vertical Drop: 1000m, providing an extended and enjoyable descent.

• Orientation: North, then East, ensuring good snow conditions.

• Panorama: Direct view of Val Thorens and the Alps, for total immersion.

• An endless valley with open and playful terrain, ideal for smooth and enjoyable descents.

• • It's important to carefully scout the exit for a safe return.

• Non-Secured Zone: A route for those who want to experience the authenticity of the Alps.

• Level: Easy, perfect for a gentle introduction to off-piste skiing.

• Starting Altitude: 2300m, offering an exceptional panoramic view.

• Vertical Drop: 900m, enough to fully appreciate the landscape.

• Orientation: West-facing, ensuring beautiful sunlight.

• Panorama: Wide-open view of the entire Belleville Valley, an exceptional setting.

• Easy and open terrain, ideal for a peaceful descent.

Passage through the Montagnettes, small traditional barns that add a touch of charm to the route.

• Non-Secured Zone: A legendary route, adaptable for all skill levels thanks to its multiple options.

• Level: Easy to Expert, depending on the chosen option, making this route accessible to a broad audience.

• Starting Altitude: 3200m, allowing for a long and varied descent.

• Vertical Drop: 1200m, one of the largest vertical drops in the area.

• Orientation: North-facing, ensuring excellent snow quality.

• Panorama: Vast panorama of the entire French Alps, offering an unparalleled visual experience.

• A wild valley ending at Lac du Lou, providing a true immersion in nature.

• • On-site refuge for a gourmet break after the descent, with the possibility of attempting a waterslide at the end of the season.

Wide skis adapted to powder snow skiing

Poles with wide baskets to help you push properly against deep snow

Ski helmet

Ski goggles

Neck warmer

AVD, Avalanche Victim Detector charged up and with you (must-have items for going off-pistes)

Waterproof, breathable ski clothing

Shovel & probe (must-have items for going off-pistes)

Fully charged mobile phone

Survival blanket

Area map & Piste map

Water &  Snacks (cereal bar, dried fruits...)

Spare pair of gloves

Sun cream

Sticky tape, string, Swiss army knife