Saint-Martin-de-Belleville is the hidden gem of the Three Valleys, offering direct access to the world’s largest ski area with 600 km of pistes, but in the setting of a genuine Savoyard mountain village. At 1,450 m, it sits at the entrance to the Belleville Valley, below Les Menuires and Val Thorens, and has preserved its authentic alpine character while quietly developing into a sophisticated ski base.
Cobblestone lanes, baroque architecture, and traditional chalets define the village, yet beneath this charm lies a high-speed gondola linking directly into the Three Valleys network. This blend of authenticity and world-class access makes Saint-Martin a unique choice: you get the same slopes as Val Thorens and Courchevel, but with the feel of a true alpine hamlet.
It is particularly popular with families, couples, and discerning skiers who prefer atmosphere and charm over nightlife and crowds.
Skiing & Snowboarding
Skiers in Saint-Martin benefit from seamless access to the entire Three Valleys.
- Beginners: The village has gentle nursery slopes and a beginner zone, ideal for first-timers. Local ski schools provide excellent instruction, and progression slopes nearby help build confidence.
- Intermediates: This is perfect territory for intermediates. Runs like Jerusalem — often called one of the best pistes in the Alps — are long, rolling, and scenic, with far fewer crowds than the higher resorts. From Saint-Martin, it’s straightforward to reach Méribel, Courchevel, or Val Thorens for endless cruising.
- Experts: Advanced skiers can test themselves on black runs in the La Masse sector above Les Menuires or tackle the legendary descents from Cime Caron in Val Thorens. Off-piste routes from the ridge lines and down into hidden valleys are superb with a guide.
- Freestylers: While Saint-Martin itself doesn’t have a park, Val Thorens and Méribel nearby both have world-class freestyle zones.
The hallmark of skiing from Saint-Martin is space and serenity — quiet slopes at village level feeding into the biggest ski playground in the world.
Ski Lift Passes
Saint-Martin lift passes are integrated into the Three Valleys system.
- Saint-Martin / Les Menuires local pass (160 km): ~€63/day | ~€315 for 6 days
- Three Valleys full area pass (600 km): ~€74/day | ~€370 for 6 days
- Child (5–12): ~25% reduction
- Under 5s: Free
Deals:
- Family passes with discounts.
- Reduced beginner passes for nursery lifts.
Details at the Les 3 Vallées ski pass page.
Resort & Infrastructure
Saint-Martin retains the feel of a Savoyard village while offering modern infrastructure.
- The Saint-Martin 1 gondola rises from the village, linking directly to Tougnète and the Méribel Valley.
- A fast six-seater chairlift further boosts capacity, ensuring smooth access to the wider Three Valleys.
- Extensive snowmaking ensures reliable pistes down to the village.
The village itself is compact and walkable, with traditional chalets, a baroque church, and a handful of shops and restaurants clustered around the central square. Despite its scale, it offers ski-in/ski-out access from much of its accommodation.
Accommodation
Saint-Martin specialises in charm and quality over quantity.
- Budget: Self-catered apartments and smaller guesthouses.
- Mid-Range: Chalet-hotels and family-run residences with Savoyard style.
- Luxury: Upscale chalets and boutique hotels such as Hotel La Bouitte, a Relais & Châteaux property with a Michelin-starred restaurant and spa, and Chalet Pure Black Crystal, offering luxury catered chalet service.
Browse via the Saint-Martin-de-Belleville accommodation search.
Dining & Après
Dining is a highlight here. The village is home to La Bouitte, one of the most celebrated restaurants in the Alps, with multiple Michelin stars. More casual options include cosy bistros and Savoyard restaurants serving fondue, raclette, and tartiflette. On the slopes, Chez Pépé Nicolas is a must-visit for its authentic farmhouse atmosphere and panoramic views.
Après-ski in Saint-Martin is understated but convivial. Le Joker Bar and wine bars around the village offer a sociable atmosphere, but those seeking late-night parties will head up to Val Thorens or Méribel.
Non-Skiing Activities
Saint-Martin is quieter than its neighbours, but offers cultural and relaxing off-slope experiences:
- Snowshoeing trails through the Belleville Valley.
- Spa and wellness experiences, particularly at La Bouitte.
- Visits to local farms producing Beaufort cheese.
- Weekly market and cultural tours of the village’s baroque heritage.
It’s more about authentic alpine living than adrenaline-fuelled activities.
Village Character & Access
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville is a true alpine village — cobbled streets, centuries-old farmhouses, and a warm, authentic atmosphere. It’s the complete contrast to Val Thorens’ high-altitude modernity, yet shares the same world-class ski area. The community feel, architectural beauty, and slower pace make it a favourite for families and couples.
How to get there from the UK:
- By air: Geneva, Lyon, Chambéry, and Grenoble (2–3 hrs).
- By train: Eurostar/TGV to Moutiers, then 25 min transfer.
- By car: Around 9 hrs from Calais.
InTheSnow Verdict
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville combines the best of both worlds: authentic alpine charm and access to the world’s biggest ski area. It’s ideal for families, couples, and skiers who value atmosphere and tradition but still want the endless terrain of the Three Valleys.
For those who prefer cheese and wine by the fire over neon-lit nightclubs, but don’t want to compromise on skiing, Saint-Martin-de-Belleville is the perfect base.
