Gîtes in Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Three iconic places to discover in Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Bourg-Saint-Maurice is home to a wealth of sites that embody the spirit of the Tarentaise, blending Alpine heritage with modern tourism. From snow-covered slopes to Baroque façades, the region’s key attractions tell a story of mountain tradition and innovation. Here are the three unmissable destinations that will make your holiday in a gîte truly special.

1. Les Arcs

Overlooking the valley since the 1960s, Les Arcs forms a truly unique architectural ensemble. This integrated resort follows the contours of the mountain across four levels, from Arc 1600 to Arc 2000, each with its own distinct character. In winter, the Paradiski ski area welcomes lovers of powder snow and wide open spaces: together with La Plagne, it forms one of the largest interconnected ski areas in Europe. In summer, the site transforms into a playground for hiking, cycling and high-altitude sports. A succession of breathtaking panoramic views awaits those who venture there.

2. Bourg-Saint-Maurice Funicular

Since 1989, the automatic funicular has provided spectacular access to the heights. In seven minutes, you climb nearly 760 metres in altitude, from the town centre at 840 metres to Arc 1600. This steep-gradient cable car is one of the most impressive in Europe, and every journey offers cascading views over the valley. Beyond its practical function, it is a sensory experience: the sound of the mechanism, the gentle acceleration, the inexorable ascent through the forest and towards the peaks. Whether you’re going up or down, the journey remains memorable.

3. Saint-Gilles Church

In the heart of the town centre, Saint-Gilles Church bears witness to Savoy’s religious heritage. Built in the 17th century, this Baroque building stands out for its distinctive architecture, particularly its unmistakable onion-domed bell tower. Listed as a historic monument, it reflects the spiritual and artistic significance of Bourg-Saint-Maurice in centuries past. Its spacious interior and décor invite you to enjoy a moment of tranquillity, far from the hustle and bustle of tourism.

From an iconic Alpine resort to a feat of railway engineering and a historic sanctuary, these three sites embody the many facets of your destination. They offer plenty of reasons to explore the surrounding area from your holiday cottage.

The ideal time of year to rent a holiday cottage in Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Each season transforms the character of Bourg-Saint-Maurice and its surrounding valleys. The best time to rent a holiday cottage depends mainly on what you fancy: mountain sports, high-altitude hikes or simply relaxing with the family.

Spring is gradually arriving in the valley. Temperatures are rising gently, the days are getting longer, and nature is regaining its colours. It’s the ideal time to explore the hiking trails on foot or by bike without the summer heat. The villages and alpine areas are beginning to come to life. A holiday cottage allows you to make the most of the first lovely days, enjoy easy access to the high-altitude lakes as they gradually emerge from the snow, and experience a gentler, more welcoming mountain environment.

Summer is the peak season in Bourg-Saint-Maurice. The peaks are accessible, the temperatures are pleasant, and there’s a wealth of activities on offer: mountain hikes, canyoning, paragliding and swimming in the lakes. Evenings remain cool at altitude. A gîte provides a comfortable base after a day of adventure, with the added benefit of flexibility to organise your outings without restrictive timetables.

Autumn paints the forests in warm hues. Temperatures drop gradually, but the days often remain bright and dry. It is a quiet season, less crowded, perfect for walkers seeking tranquillity. Holiday cottages are well suited to these more contemplative stays, where you can savour the scenery without the pressure of a tight schedule.

Winter blankets the peaks and slopes in snow. Bourg-Saint-Maurice becomes a gateway to the ski resorts and snow sports. The holiday cottages then offer a cosy refuge, an ideal base for skiing, snowshoeing or simply admiring the snow-covered landscapes. Winter requires closer attention to the weather, but a holiday let guarantees comfort after a day out and about.

There’s no such thing as a bad season in Bourg-Saint-Maurice. Holiday cottage rentals are suitable for all occasions: an active spring, a family summer, a relaxing autumn or a sporty winter. This flexibility in accommodation allows you to adjust your plans according to the weather and your mood, without any time constraints or obligations.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Bourg-Saint-Maurice is situated in the heart of the Haute-Tarentaise, an Alpine valley shaped by the mountains and outdoor sports. In both summer and winter, the area offers a variety of experiences that draw travellers out of their accommodation for unforgettable days. Here are the three unmissable activities you shouldn’t miss during your stay.

1. Skiing in the Les Arcs – Paradiski ski area

The Les Arcs ski area is one of the largest in France, linked to La Plagne via the Paradiski connection. The slopes cater for all ability levels: beginners can explore the accessible areas, whilst experienced skiers can venture onto the more challenging slopes. In winter, the gîtes become ideal bases for endless days of skiing. The views of the snow-capped peaks and the variety of runs make the ski area a top destination for skiing enthusiasts.

Address: Les Arcs, 73700 Bourg-Saint-Maurice.

2. Hiking to the Col du Petit-Saint-Bernard and in the Haute-Tarentaise

The hiking trails criss-crossing the Haute-Tarentaise reveal authentic alpine landscapes: flower-filled meadows in summer, larch forests, crystal-clear streams and panoramic views of the neighbouring mountain ranges. The Col du Petit-Saint-Bernard offers an iconic walk with views of Italy. Walkers of all abilities will find suitable routes, ranging from family-friendly trails to more challenging ascents. These walks allow you to discover the local flora and fauna in their natural environment.

Address: 73700 Bourg-Saint-Maurice.

3. Rafting and kayaking on the Isère

The River Isère, which flows through the valley, offers rafting and kayaking routes suitable for all levels of experience. The white water provides a real thrill, whilst the calmer stretches are ideal for families and beginners. Local guides know the best spots and share their knowledge of the river. A day out on the water is the perfect way to round off a stay in a holiday cottage, especially during the warmer months when conditions are at their best.

Address: 73700 Bourg-Saint-Maurice.

Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday cottage in Bourg-Saint-Maurice

When choosing a holiday cottage, location is only half the story. Facilities play an equally crucial role in the quality of your stay. In Bourg-Saint-Maurice, travellers look for accommodation that combines practicality and comfort so they can make the most of their mountain holiday. Here are the facilities that feature most frequently in visitors’ preferences.

• Efficient heating: essential at high altitudes, it guarantees cosy nights even in the low season and during winter getaways.
• Fully equipped kitchen: many prefer to prepare their own meals to sample local produce and cook to their own tastes.
• Terrace or balcony: offering a view of the mountains or a space to breathe in the fresh air is becoming a major draw.
• Internet access: even in the mountains, staying connected remains important for sharing photos or organising activities.
• Private car park: located near the holiday cottage, it saves travellers the hassle of hunting for a parking space in the town centre.
• Washing machine: during longer stays, this saves families and groups a considerable amount of time.
• Air conditioning: in summer, it provides a cool haven after a day’s hiking or outdoor activities.
• Barbecue or outdoor kitchen: many people dream of enjoying convivial meals outdoors with a view of the mountain peaks.
• Spacious bathroom: after a day’s exertion, being able to relax in a spacious shower or bath is a welcome luxury.

Finding the right holiday cottage in Bourg-Saint-Maurice also means assessing your actual needs: the number of guests, the length of your stay, your budget and the type of activities you’re planning. A well-equipped property turns a visit into a lasting memory.

What is the average price of a holiday cottage in Bourg-Saint-Maurice?

Prices for holiday cottages in Bourg-Saint-Maurice vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small cottage sleeping two to four people, you can generally expect to pay between 50 and 90 euros per night. A family holiday cottage for four to six people tends to cost between 80 and 150 euros per night. Larger properties or those offering high-end facilities can cost between 150 and 250 euros per night, or even more depending on the amenities.

Several factors influence these rates. Proximity to the ski slopes or access to summer activities plays a key role, as do the age and facilities of the building. The length of stay also matters: weekly rentals often benefit from sliding-scale rates, sometimes offering a discount of up to 15 or 20 per cent compared to the per-night rate. Holiday cottages frequently offer attractive packages for stays of seven days or more, which are particularly appealing to families or groups of friends.

As Bourg-Saint-Maurice is a very popular mountain destination, prices rise significantly during the winter and summer peak seasons. Summer attracts hikers and mountain sports enthusiasts, whilst winter draws skiers. The shoulder seasons (May, June, September) generally offer more affordable rates. To plan your budget effectively, compare several holiday cottages, check reviews from previous guests and book well in advance, especially during peak season.