Gîtes in Valloire

Three iconic places to discover in Valloire

Valloire is home to some of Savoie’s most distinctive treasures. From its remarkable religious heritage to its mountain estates and legendary peaks, the area offers experiences that embody the region’s Alpine spirit. Here are three unmissable stops to appreciate the diversity and beauty of the place.

1. Saint-Pierre Church in Valloire

In the heart of the village stands Saint-Pierre Church, a masterpiece of Savoyard Baroque dating from the 17th century. Listed as a historic monument, it first strikes the visitor with the harmony of its exterior architecture, before revealing, inside, a profusion of gilded sculptures and finely chiselled decorations. The carved woodwork, the gilding covering the high altar and the richness of the interior ornamentation make it one of the finest examples of Alpine Baroque art. Every detail tells the story of the faith and craftsmanship of the artisans of yesteryear.

2. Galibier-Thabor ski area

The Galibier-Thabor ski area spans over 150 kilometres of slopes, linking Valloire to Valmeinier. This winter wonderland appeals equally to skiers seeking thrills and families looking for a relaxing winter break. Reaching an altitude of over 2,600 metres, the ski area offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Écrins massif and the Savoyard Alps. In summer, these same slopes become a playground for hiking and trail running.

3. Col du Galibier

At an altitude of 2,642 metres, the Col du Galibier remains one of the most legendary mountain passes in the Alps. Accessible on foot or by bike from Valloire, it attracts cyclists, motorcyclists and tourists seeking thrills every year. Its prestige stems largely from its status as an unmissable stage of the Tour de France, but also from the spectacular views it offers of the surrounding landscape. The low-angled light of morning or evening transforms these rocky, high-altitude landscapes into mineral-like scenes of austere beauty.

These three sites alone encapsulate the character of Valloire: a mountain rich in thrills, steeped in Savoyard history and culture, where nature reigns supreme and each season brings its own magic.

The ideal season to rent a holiday cottage in Valloire

Each season changes the face of Valloire and transforms the holiday experience. The mountain resort offers different attractions depending on the time of year: hikers, families seeking a cool escape, skiers and travellers longing for a splash of colour will each find their ideal time to visit.

Spring is gradually arriving in the mountains. The snowfields are slowly melting, the meadows are blanketed with alpine flowers, and the temperatures finally allow for walks at higher altitudes. This is the season when hikers return to the trails, cyclists arrive in the valley, and families escape the summer crowds. The holiday cottages remain peaceful and rates are more affordable than in peak season.

Summer is the peak season. The days are long and lovely, and the temperatures are mild even at high altitudes. Valloire becomes the starting point for countless excursions: hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing and paragliding. Outdoor cafés spring up, cultural events abound, and the atmosphere is festive. Holiday cottages are fully booked, so you’ll need to book well in advance.

Autumn paints the hillsides in warm hues: ochre, red and orange. Temperatures drop but remain pleasant, the air becomes crisper, and the summer tourists head home. It’s an excellent season for hiking without the crowds, enjoying the mountain air in light clothing, and savouring the local produce of the late season. Prices return to reasonable levels.

Winter transforms Valloire into a winter sports destination. The slopes are open, temperatures drop, and the peaks are blanketed in snow. Downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing: there’s a wealth of winter activities on offer. Holiday cottages become ideal bases for sports enthusiasts who wish to ski by day and retreat to the warmth of their accommodation in the evening.

Holiday rentals remain the most flexible option whatever the season. They allow you to tailor your stay to your changing desires: summer relaxation, autumn exploration, winter adventure or a spring getaway.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Valloire

Valloire is a mountain resort that offers much more than just a warm welcome from its holiday cottages. The area offers a wide range of experiences, in both summer and winter, for thrill-seekers and those who prefer peaceful walks alike. Here are three unmissable activities during your stay.

1. Skiing on the slopes of the Galibier-Thabor ski area

In winter, the Galibier-Thabor ski area is the beating heart of Valloire. Its 80 kilometres of slopes stretch across an altitude of over 2,600 metres, from the Col du Télégraphe to the snow-capped peaks. There’s something for every ability level, from gentle slopes for beginners to technical couloirs for experienced skiers. Direct access from the resort’s holiday cottages makes getting to and from the slopes easy, and the ski lifts operate efficiently, even during busy periods.

Address: 73450 Valloire.

2. Summer hike to the Col du Galibier

In summer, the slopes become a playground for walkers. The hike to the Col du Galibier is one of the most popular in the region. The route climbs gradually through flower-filled mountain pastures, offering ever-widening views of the surrounding mountain ranges at every bend. The summit, at 2,642 metres, rewards the effort with a panoramic view of the Alps stretching from north to south. Allow around six hours for the round trip, depending on your pace.

Address: 73450 Valloire.

3. Discover the snow sculptures at the Valloire International Festival

Every winter, the International Snow Sculpture Festival transforms the village into an open-air gallery. Around fifty artists from all over the world carve blocks of snow weighing several tonnes in just a few days. Visitors can follow the creative process and admire abstract, figurative or monumental works. It is a fascinating experience that blends contemporary art with the snow-covered Alpine landscape.

Address: 73450 Valloire.

Our guests’ favourite facilities when booking a holiday cottage in Valloire

When staying in the mountains, the comfort of your accommodation makes all the difference. In Valloire, travellers look for facilities that allow them to make the most of their free time, whether they’re visiting for winter sports or summer hikes. A good holiday cottage combines warmth, practicality and a welcoming atmosphere for a successful holiday.

• Efficient heating: essential in winter to cope with mountain temperatures and create a cosy atmosphere after a day at high altitude.
• Fully equipped kitchen: families enjoy preparing their own meals, particularly during long stays or to cater for children’s dietary needs.
• Bathroom with shower or bath: after physical exertion, a moment of relaxation in hot water is a real luxury.
• Washing machine: handy for longer stays or families with children who change their clothes regularly.
• Wi-Fi: even on holiday, staying connected provides peace of mind and allows you to share your discoveries in real time.
• Terrace or balcony: gazing at the mountain peaks from your accommodation extends the mountain experience from morning to night.
• Television: a welcome addition for evenings, especially when the weather means you have to stay indoors.
• Private or nearby parking: in the resort, having a secure parking space makes organising your stay much easier.
• Spacious storage: with winter clothes, hiking boots and sports kit, having enough space to store everything is a significant bonus.

Choosing a well-equipped holiday cottage allows visitors to focus on what really matters: enjoying the mountains, relaxing and making memories with family or friends. Finding accommodation that meets your specific needs guarantees a peaceful and enjoyable stay.

What is the average price of a holiday cottage in Valloire?

Prices for holiday cottages in Valloire reflect the nature of the resort and vary according to the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small holiday cottage sleeping two to four people, you can generally expect to pay between 400 and 700 euros a week in the low season, and between 600 and 1,000 euros during the summer. A family holiday let, accommodating six to eight people, tends to fall within a range of 700 to 1,300 euros in the off-season, and between 1,000 and 1,800 euros in the high season. More spacious holiday homes or those offering high-end amenities are significantly more expensive than these figures.

Several factors influence the price per night or per week. Location plays a decisive role: a holiday home close to the ski lifts or with a view over the valley costs more than one set further back. The length of stay also affects rates. Owners generally offer discounted rates for weekly or monthly rentals, making a longer stay better value than a series of short visits. The standard of facilities, the presence of a terrace, storage space for ski equipment or direct access to the slopes are all factors that affect the price.

Seasonal factors have a significant impact on prices in Valloire. Winter remains the most expensive time of year, particularly during school holidays and the festive season. Summer, which is less popular, offers more affordable rates. Before booking, check several listings to compare terms and conditions, read reviews from previous guests and check for any additional charges. Booking a few weeks in advance often allows you to benefit from better prices.