One of three resorts in the Belleville Valley, which is itself one of the world famous 3 Vallées (Three Valleys), Les Menuires has a reputation for offering the lowest prices in the area. Located above the old Savoyard village of St Martin de Belleville and below Val Thorens (Europe’s highest purpose-built ski centre), Les Menuires has previously marketed itself as ‘The Smile of The Alps’ because of the semi-circular arc of its main building complex and its good sunshine record. It’s now known as ‘Friendly Menuires’, and is one of the 3 Valleys’ most popular spots for families, as well as for those on a budget.

The resort is divided in to ‘quarters’ – although there are more than four of them. The main facilities are in La Croisette, the original centre, and les Bruyeres. Above them are the accommodation complexes of Reberty 1850, Reberty 2000 and Brelin. Below them are les Fontanettes and Preyerand. Much of the building is extremely functional and the emphasis has traditionally been placed on slope-side convenience rather than architectural design sympathetic to the beauty of the surrounding mountainscape. However some of the older buildings that were especially criticised by some for their unattractiveness have now been demolished and the newer developments are more tasteful – with more exterior wood and sloping roofs and gables, and less concrete rectangles.

Another good point for many is the fact that Les Menuires is such nice family resort – definitely lacking in the fur-coated snobs which frequent some of the other resorts nearby. The slopes nearest to the resort are well placed for beginner and intermediate skiers, while advanced skiers can be whisked off to more challenging terrain in minutes on fast, modern lifts.

The resort has easy access to the 3 Valleys ski area, one of the worlds’ largest and most popular ski areas. Skiers of all ages and abilities will be sure to find highly enjoyable and entertaining skiing here, as well as a wide range of off-slope activities, unique gastronomy and friendly, mountain-loving staff.