Saint Martin de Belleville is located in the 3 Valleys, one of France’s most famous and premier ski areas. Its stunning setting and authentic Alpine charm make it a sought-after winter destination. Skiers and snowboarders enjoy access to a vast area and reliable snow cover, which lures them back every winter. In this Ultimate Guide to Saint Martin de Belleville, we will cover everything you need to know to have the best possible time in this wonderful ski resort.
Where Is Saint Martin de Belleville?
Saint Martin de Belleville is in the Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It is about 130 kilometres east of Geneva, Switzerland and 200 kilometres southeast of Lyon, France.
The town of Moutiers is roughly 20 kilometres away. It serves as a key transportation hub for accessing the resort and nearby areas.
How High Is Saint Martin de Belleville?
Saint Martin de Belleville is situated at an elevation of 1,450 meters, contributing to reasonably reliable snow conditions. The resort ranges from this base elevation to 2,804 at the Pointe de la Masse, Saint Martin de Belleville’s highest point. From this peak, skiers and snowboarders can enjoy high-altitude terrain and stunning panoramic views.
However, it’s worth noting that the resort itself isn’t exceptionally high. But, the vast Les Trois Vallées ski area extends up to 3,195 meters at La Cîme Caron in nearby Val Thorens, providing access to extensive high-altitude skiing. Also, Meribel and Les Menuires are easy to access from St. Martin de Belleville, thanks to the St Martin 1 gondola and St Martin Express chairlift.
Martin de Belleville Ski Resort
As you approach Saint Martin de Belleville, you’ll find a charming, picturesque village surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. The resort comprises several quaint hamlets, each offering unique charm and character. These areas are connected by ski lifts, slopes, and a free shuttle bus service.
The old village centre is steeped in history, which you can learn about in the excellent museum at the Tourist Office. You can expect old farming chalets dating 100s of years old lining the old cobbled streets, many of which are getting refurbished into stunning luxury chalets.
Saint Martin de Belleville is the perfect ski resort for families and groups of friends who want a quiet French Alpine experience with a traditional village rather than a purpose-built resort, which can be pretty ugly due to questionable 1960s and 1970s architecture.
There are 5 districts that makeup Saint Martin de Belleville; here’s what you can expect from each one:
1) Centre Village (blue)
Centre Village is the heart of Saint Martin de Belleville. Here, traditional Savoyard architecture blends with modern amenities, creating an authentic mountain village atmosphere. The Centre Village is where you’ll find the main ski lift, a variety of shops, cozy cafés, and some of the best restaurants in the valley (we will go into these later in this article). It’s the perfect spot to stay for easy access to the slopes and vibrant village life.
2) Les Grangeraies (black)
Les Grangeraies is just a short walk from the Centre Village. It offers stunning views and a more tranquil experience, making it ideal for families and those looking for a quieter stay. The area is primarily residential, with charming chalets and luxury apartments. Les Grangeraies is the best place to stay in the area if ski-in-ski-out accommodation is your priority. This is because the St Martin 1 gondola lift station is just a stone’s throw away from most accommodation options.
3) La Villette (green)
La Villette is a quaint hamlet oozing with traditional Alpine charm. The rustic, wooden buildings and narrow streets give it an authentic feel. A quick shuttle bus ride or a short ski will get you to the main lifts and the heart of the resort.
4) Villarencel (yellow)
Villarencel is another delightful hamlet that retains its old-world atmosphere. Its traditional chalets sit among newer but sympathetically designed accommodations. This area is perfect for those who want an authentic French mountain village experience. The Village’s peaceful setting is complemented by its easy access to the main ski area.
5) Les Places (coral)
Les Places is a small, picturesque hamlet close to the main Village. It offers a handful of lovely accommodation options, perfect for a quiet retreat. Its proximity to the Centre Village means you’re never far from the action, and you can easily return to the cosy village-like atmosphere of La Places. The free shuttle bus makes it easy to access the slopes and other amenities.
On The Mountain
Saint Martin de Belleville is part of the massive Les Trois Vallées ski area, one of the world’s largest linked ski areas. Therefore, visitors to Saint Martin de Belleville have access to an impressive range of slopes, which are well-connected by a modern lift system.
The resort offers a variety of slopes best suited to beginners and intermediates. The Village itself has two ideally situated novice areas, perfect for mastering your first turns. Intermediate skiers and snowboarders can enjoy long, cruisy runs; the longest ones extend from the high alpine and through scenic meadows, providing up to 7 km of continuous skiing from Tougnette (2,434m) and 3 Marches (2,700m) down to the Village at 1,450m.
The area under the St Martin Express chair offers challenging terrain for more advanced skiers and snowboarders. Freeriders with a 3 Vallées lift pass can drop into Meribel and head up the Olympic chair to Roc de Fer, where they’ll be able to make fresh tracks on powder days all the way into the Belleville Valley.
The recently upgraded St Martin 1 gondola has considerably improved access to the mountain from the Village. Departing right from the centre of town, it offers a convenient start to your ski day. This gondola, along with the area’s other modern lifts, ensures that the terrain in Saint Martin de Belleville is easily accessible.
Although the lift and terrain options in St Martin itself are somewhat limited, the broader 3 Vallées ski area offers immense skiing and snowboarding possibilities. You can find many blue runs throughout the area, perfect for leisurely skiing.
One popular route starts from the St Martin 1 gondola, takes you up to the top of the St Martin Express, and then down to Les Menuires. From there, you can explore the slopes of Meribel and Val Thorens, offering a full day of skiing across different terrains and altitudes. This loop provides stunning views and varied skiing experiences, with plenty of opportunities to stop for lunch or a quick drink along the way.
The combination of charming village life, easy access to extensive slopes, and a variety of terrain makes Saint Martin de Belleville a fantastic base for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
LUXURY ACCOMMODATION
Best 5-Star accommodation
Le M Lodge And Spa
Le M Lodge is a prestigious 5-star hotel designed to be the perfect luxury accommodation option for skiing in Saint Martin de Belleville with immediate access to the ski slopes. It offers 25 rooms and suites, all with breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Each room and suite at Le M Lodge is meticulously designed for comfort and luxury, incorporating wood, mountainside stones, and contemporary amenities. The decor features cozy textiles and includes pieces of art by Amélie du Chalard, adding a unique and surprising touch to the ambience.
The luxury continues with the Spa du M Lodge. Its massage rooms, gym, and spectacular 16-meter indoor swimming pool are ideal for preparing yourself for a fantastic day on the mountain. You can also enjoy rejuvenating and beauty treatments designed to release stress and promote well-being.
For guests seeking even more exclusivity, Le M Lodge offers two private chalets – Pure Black Crystal and Pure White Crystal. These chalets are luxurious mountainside retreats with personal staff, including a chef, butler, and driver. Each chalet features five rooms, a sauna, a massage room, a games room, a wine cellar, and an indoor swimming pool.
La Bouitte
La Bouitte is a traditional chalet hotel steeped in history and surrounded by antique wood and local stone. This 5-star hotel and 3-Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant provide the ultimate in hospitality during a stay in Saint Martin de Belleville (Hameau de Saint Marcel).
This family-run business has a welcoming atmosphere thanks to the excellent attentiveness of René, Marie-Louise, Maxime, and Delphine Meilleur. La Bouitte is decorated with soft fabrics and a collection of historical artifacts, creating a cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxation after a day of skiing.
The pride of La Bouitte is its gourmet restaurant, where father and son duo René and Maxime Meilleur showcase their self-taught culinary skills. Their food reflects their passion for Savoie cuisine and a desire to introduce local flavours to guests.
The stunning 5***** M Lodge Hotel & Spa in Saint Martin de Belleville is designed to have the intimacy and warmth of boutique hotels, perfectly integrated in the mountainside and respectful of the surrounding environment
Best Luxury Chalets
Chalet Ferme 1779
Chalet Ferme 1779 is a beautifully renovated former farmhouse with traditional charm and modern comforts. This spacious property features unobstructed views over the Belleville Valley, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a luxurious mountain escape.
The chalet’s six ensuite bedrooms are shared over 3 levels and accommodate up to 10 adults and 5 children. The large living room in the former barn boasts a stunning traditional roof structure, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Guests can enjoy the open-plan living room, TV room, dining area, and open kitchen arranged around a central fireplace, which provides a perfect setting for relaxation and chatting about your day of skiing. Additionally, the ground floor features a relaxation area with a sauna and hammam, offering an ideal place to unwind.
Chalet Aloha
Just 300 meters from the centre of Saint Martin de Belleville, Chalet Aloha offers stunning views of the village church and surrounding mountains. Its proximity to the slopes makes it a perfect choice for skiers and snowboarders.
This three-story chalet has six ensuite bedrooms, each uniquely designed to comfortably sleep twelve guests. The vast living space faces the area’s best alpine views, framed by bay windows. The living room’s XXL sofa is incredibly welcoming, as are the bar area, dining room, and semi-open kitchen. You can expect a welcoming and stylish environment complemented by a modern fireplace and steel staircase.
Chalet Aloha features a home cinema room, sauna, and outdoor Nordic bath, allowing guests to relax while enjoying the breathtaking views.
Chalet de Ferme d’Edouard
Chalet de Fere d’Edouard started life as a farm, but a comprehensive restoration has transformed it into a luxury chalet. Every original stone is carefully restored, blending authentic architectural elements with modern amenities for contemporary comfort.
This 460m² chalet has five levels, including a garage. The first level features a relaxation area with a swimming pool, sauna, and hammam. The upper levels have six ensuite bedrooms and spacious living areas.
La Ferme d’Edouard is located near the Place de l’Eglise, where you’ll find some excellent shops and restaurants. The location also means you’re close to the Village ski lift for quick access to the snow. Alternatively, you can use the free shuttle in front of the chalet, which takes you to the Saint Martin gondola.
Chalet Pure White Crystal And Chalet Pure Black Crystal
The Pure Black and Pure White Crystal chalets are two of the most prestigious chalets in the 3 Vallées. They are built in the traditional Belleville Valley style and have panoramic mountain views and high-end amenities. Both chalets have 315 sqm on three levels plus a mezzanine and can sleep 10 people.
The top level of each chalet houses the living space, with a central fireplace, wood, and stone, creating an authentic mountain retreat atmosphere. The open-plan living area includes a living room, dining room, bar, and open kitchen around a crackling fire. You also have the option to spend time on the mezzanine with its games room and a TV lounge, adding to the comfort and entertainment options. Alternatively, why not enjoy the delightful leisure area? The indoor pool, sauna, and outdoor Nordic bath are perfect relaxation spots while your private chef prepares delicious dishes.
Chalet Pure Black Crystal is a classic luxurious mountain chalet, where a design of old wood and mountain stonework has come together to form an intimate atmosphere. Pure Black Crystal provides a fabulous private spa area and large living spaces for your enjoyment.
Chalet Nanook
Chalet Nanook is perfect for large families. It is part of a newly built development in the heart of Saint Martin de Belleville and right next to the slopes. It accommodates up to 15 people with six ensuite bedrooms, including a five-person family room.
The double-height living room’s bay windows offer stunning views of St.Martin de Belleville and the mountains, while the central fireplace adds warmth. There is also a long dining table for family gatherings and gourmet meals prepared in the adjacent kitchen.
Head to the ground floor to enjoy the indoor pool, hot tub, and steam room. The spa also includes a massage room and a home cinema. The top level hosts a games room with a pool table and table football, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
Chalet Acolou
Built in 2022, Chalet Acolou offers a nearly ski-in-ski-out experience. With generous space, this chalet is perfect for large families or groups of friends. The footprint measures 300 sqm and comfortably accommodates up to 15 people. The expansive living space includes an open-plan kitchen, dining room, and lounge centred around a glass-walled fireplace, providing a cozy ambience from all sides.
The chalet features a suite with a dressing room, terrace, en suite bathroom, four double bedrooms, and a dormitory for five children. After a day on the slopes, guests can relax in the sauna or the outdoor jacuzzi. Additional amenities include a garage and ski room for ultimate convenience.
Chalet Quebec
Chalet Quebec offers an exceptional location overlooking Saint Martin de Belleville. This luxurious chalet provides ski-in-ski-out access and a range of leisure facilities to enhance your stay. This chalet comprises 360 sqm over three levels. Its large windows illuminate the spacious interiors that bring together contemporary style and cosiness.
Chalet Quebec has six ensuite bedrooms, ensuring optimal comfort for up to 14 guests. The dedicated living area features a large living room and dining room separated by a central fireplace. There is also a large terrace that extends the space, allowing guests to enjoy sunny lunches overlooking the valley. When they’re not skiing, guests can unwind in the outdoor jacuzzi, work out in the sports room, or enjoy a movie in the cinema room.
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Après, Restaurants and Nightlife
Après- ski in Saint Martin de Belleville differs slightly from larger resorts. You’ll undoubtedly find welcoming bars where you can celebrate your epic day in the mountains with a drink. But the Village has a low-key style, so don’t expect to dance on tables in your ski boots.
Many people start après-ski at Le Dahlia, just steps from the home piste. This bar has a lovely terrace for sun-soaked apres drinks. Alternatively, head to Le Joker, one of Saint Martin’s livelier spots. Le Joker features an upstairs bar popular with locals and a downstairs area where you’ll find pool-playing seasonaires and occasional karaoke sing-offs.
Located near the church, Pourquoi Pas Bar is a lovely vaulted bar. It is a local favourite serving craft beers and cocktails in front of a crackling open fire. Expect live music and open-mic sessions several evenings a week.
La Bouitte
We have already mentioned La Bouitte as one of our favourite 5-star accommodation options. But we have to talk about the Michelin three-star restaurant again, as it is such a special place. The kitchen and restaurant are run by the father-son duo René and Maxime Meilleur. La Bouitte serves exquisite Savoyard cuisine in a charming, rustic setting. The dining experience here gives you the finest opportunity to sample the flavours of the Alps.
One of the restaurant’s highlights is the Arctic char fish from Lake Geneva with rocket and génépi sauce. Alternatively, the hearty lamb stew is sure to satisfy your stomach and tastebuds. You can also wash your meal down with a choice of more than 1,000 French wines before returning to your luxurious room.
Le Montagnard
Located in an old farmhouse, Le Montagnard offers traditional Savoyard cuisine with a modern twist. This family-run business has a warm ambience and friendly service, making it a favourite among locals and visitors.
Le Lodji
The restaurant at Le Lodji Hotel, Au Torè, is run by Chef Jean-Sébastien Prijot, who creates seasonal A la carte, fresh and Savoyard dishes in a contemporary style. You can dine by the fireplace or on the terrace overlooking the Village and snow-capped peaks. The restaurant is accessible to residents and non-residents of the hotel.
Le Corbeleys
Le Corbeleys is a mountain restaurant at the top of the Saint Martin gondola. We recommend Le Corbelys for a lunch stop with a view. The restaurant has an excellent menu comprising dishes to share, pies, salads, fine cuts of meat, and fantastic cheeses and desserts.
Maya Altitude (technically Meribel)
Maya Altitude is a friendly chalet restaurant with a warm and comforting atmosphere, located 2,400 meters at the top of the Tougnète chairlift and St Martin Express chairlift (border between Meribel and Saint Martin de Belleville). Dining on the huge terrace on a sunny day is a real treat, with Mont-Blanc and the Belleville Valley as a backdrop. Inside, you’re welcomed by the cozy and colourful decor inspired by the Himalayas and Tibet.
The interior of Maya Altitude is dominated by an imposing charcoal grill, a butcher’s block, and a meat maturation cellar. Here, you can discover the high-end brasserie-style menu designed by Executive Chef Christophe Dupuy in collaboration with Restaurant Chef Stéphane Desprez. You can also enjoy live music sessions every Thursday while sampling a mix of French and international dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
La Table du M Lodge
Le M Lodge’s in-house restaurant is regarded as one of, if not the chicest places in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. Whether dining on the terrace, in the bar, or in the cozy library dining room next to a warm fireplace, guests can enjoy exquisite meals crafted by chef Jean-Sébastien Prijot.
La Table du M Lodge is known for its innovative and delicious menu. It offers various ambiences, from a cozy dinner by the fireplace to a relaxed lunch on the terrace. The restaurant serves various dishes throughout the day, from breakfast to dinner, accompanied by exceptional wines and spirits.
La Ferme de La Choumette
A charming farm-to-table restaurant, La Ferme de La Choumette serves traditional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The rustic setting and friendly atmosphere make it an excellent spot for a relaxed meal.
Simple et Meilleur Bistrot
Run by the same family as La Bouitte, this bistro offers a more casual dining experience without compromising quality. The menu features simple yet flavorful dishes highlighting the best local produce.
Saint Martin de Belleville is a real foodie’s paradise with incredible mountain restaurants including one of the best restaurants in France: the 3*** Michelin Restaurant La Bouitte by René & Maxime Meilleur
Non-Skiing Activities And Events
Saint Martin de Belleville offers more than easy access to the slopes of the 3 Vallees. It also has several activities that allow you to experience the area in unique ways. Here are some highlights to make your visit unforgettable:
First Tracks
Experience fresh powder before anyone else. The First Tracks event is every Wednesday, which gets you up the mountain before the lifts open to the general public. For €30, you can enjoy the fresh morning snow before anyone else, followed by a delicious breakfast.
Cross-Country Skiing
Explore the Belleville Valley at a slower pace with cross-country skiing. The area offers several well-groomed trails that wind through stunning landscapes, providing a peaceful alternative to downhill skiing. It’s an excellent opportunity to take in the views and spot wildlife such as chamois, ibex, and birds of prey.
Dog Sledding
Going on a dog sledding adventure through the snowy wilderness is a fun way to explore the area. This unique experience allows you to enjoy the snowy landscape and the thrill of being pulled by a team of enthusiastic huskies.
La Mine
The new La Mine toboggan on rails is a fantastic activity for all ages. This exciting attraction is like a roller coaster that twists and turns down the mountain, offering adrenaline-fuelled fun.
Les Menuires
Just a short distance from Saint Martin de Belleville, you’ll find Les Menuires. This ski resort also offers a wide range of alternative activities you may want to experience. Here are our favourites:
Paragliding: Paragliding is one of the best ways to see the area’s peaks and valleys. The tandem flight experience can be as tranquil or extreme as you like; just make sure you tell your pilot your preference!
Snowmobiling: Guided snowmobile tours offer an alternative way to see the mountains. Speeding across the snow on a snowmobile is a must-do for petrolheads and adrenaline junkies.
Snow Groomer Ride with Dinner: Snow groomers are incredibly impressive machines, and many ski resort visitors wonder what it would be like to ride in one. Well, this is something you can do during your trip, followed by a cozy dinner in a mountain restaurant.
Biathlon: Test your skills in this challenging sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. An instructor will provide all the equipment and guidance to ensure you have a great day.
Igloo Building: Learn how to build your own igloo in this fun and educational activity, perfect for families with young kids.
The Roc’n’Bob Sledging: A thrilling toboggan run that promises excitement and laughter for everyone. Anyone from age 7 can race down a 4km long slope with 22 bends and a 450m drop in elevation.
Experience the natural beauty of the winter landscape on a dog sledding ride in Saint Martin de Belleville.
A wonderful snow-gliding adventure for both young and old.
How To Get To Saint Martin de Belleville
You can reach Saint Martin de Belleville in various ways, depending on your preferences and starting point. Most visitors arrive by plane or train, then drive or take a private transfer bus to the ski resort. A private transfer is often the best option, as it eliminates the need to drive in snowy conditions and takes you directly to your accommodation. Here are a few ways to get to Saint Martin de Belleville:
How To Get From Paris To Saint Martin de Belleville
Many visitors arrive via Paris, often opting for the train. The high-speed TGV train runs from Paris Gare de Lyon to Moûtiers every weekend, taking about 4 hours. This scenic journey through the French countryside is a relaxing way to travel.
If you prefer driving, the trip from Paris to Saint Martin de Belleville takes about 6 hours and 30 minutes in good traffic conditions. Make sure your hire car has snow chains or is fitted with winter tyres, which may not be available with rental cars in Paris.
How To Get From Geneva Airport To Saint Martin de Belleville
Geneva Airport is a convenient entry point. It is 180 km from Saint Martin de Belleville and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach by road. During peak weeks or snowy conditions, expect longer travel times.
Hiring a car from Geneva Airport provides flexibility for exploring nearby resorts. However, the vast Three Valleys ski area might keep you busy enough.
For a faster transfer, consider a helicopter ride from Geneva airport. If this interests you, mention it when booking your trip.
How To Get From Lyon Airport To Saint Martin de Belleville
Lyon-Saint Exupéry airport is another option, located 183 km from Saint Martin de Belleville. The drive takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on road conditions.
Private transfers from Lyon Airport are a popular choice, ensuring a smooth journey to the resort.
How To Get From Chambéry Airport To Saint Martin de Belleville
Chambéry airport is the closest, only 104 km away, with a road transfer of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This airport is popular for seasonal charter flights.
Private transfers from Chambéry are quick and convenient, getting you to the slopes with minimal hassle.
How To Get From Moûtiers To Saint Martin de Belleville
Moûtiers is the nearest train station, about 20 km from Saint Martin de Belleville. From Moûtiers, you can take a taxi or a private transfer, which takes about 20-30 minutes.
Whether you prefer the ease of a private transfer, the flexibility of a rental car, or the scenic journey by train, reaching Saint Martin de Belleville is straightforward and offers multiple options to suit your travel style.
Why Book your Ski Holiday to Saint Martin de Belleville
Saint Martin de Belleville is a charming village in the heart of the Three Valleys, one of the world’s largest ski areas. Unlike the bustling, high-energy resorts, Saint Martin offers a more tranquil but authentic Alpine experience, combining traditional charm without compromising on modern amenities.