Resort information: Proof that a modern high altitude resort can also be charming
Overview
Located high up on the edge of the upper Tarentaise valley where the French and Italian Alps meet La Rosiere 1850 has a lot going for it. It’s position means that it benefits from weather systems coming from both directions and this, combined with its altitude, means this is one of the most snow sure resorts in the Alps.
La Rosiere and neighbouring Les Eucherts form a pretty, south facing resort on a ‘balcony’ overlooking the Tarentaise valley. This position makes for stunning views as well as an enviable sunshine record. Mainly built in the early 1980s, La Rosiere was designed to be in sympathy with its environment. In contrast to some neighbouring resorts built in the ‘70s and their use of concrete block architecture, local building materials such as stone, wood and slate are the norm in La Rosiere. This as well as regulation on the height and size of buildings means this is a resort benefiting from a combination of modern facilities and traditional charm.
On the mountain: In combination with La Thuile on the Italian side of the border the resort makes up the L’Espace San Bernardo skiing ski area.
Pistes and Lifts: The San Bernardo area has 73 runs (39 on the La Rosiere side) totalling approximately 160kms of groomed pistes including 11 (7) Blacks, 32 (11) Reds, 21 Blues (13) and 9 (7) Greens. Additionally La Rosiere offers 3 terrain parks: a beginner (blue) snowpark as well red boarder cross course and a red snowcross course as well. The off piste, while not as plentiful as some French is certainly plenty for a week’s trip.
Apres ski: The après ski in La Rosiere is pretty laid back with mainly traditional Savoyard restaurants and about a dozen bars in the resort. Le Petit Danois’ is a popular après ski spot with a terrace home to cold beers, live music, dj’s and barbecue. Later on there is a pub/disco with DJs and live acts. There is also a bowling alley and casino in the village.
Travel information: With a regular schedule of transfers from Chambery, Lyon and Geneva directly to the resort, arranging your travel shouldn’t be complicated, despite a slightly longer journey time in comparison to some of the other French alpine resorts.
By Air: Chambery Airport – 126km / approx 1 hours 40 mins Private transfers are a good option and are available from Alp Line (www.alp-line.com) or car hire is also available. Alternatively Altibus operate a regular transfer to Val d’Isere www.altibus.com
Lyon Airport – 230 km / approx 2 hours 45 mins Other than hiring a car and driving to Val d’Isere you can take a private transfer with Alp Line (www.alp-line.com). You can also take one of the regular Altibus coach transfers www.altibus.com
Geneva Airport – 210 km / approx 2 hours 10 mins You can drive in a hire car or take a private transfers with Alp Line (www.alp-line.com). Alternatively Altibus has a regular schedule of buses to Val d’Isere www.altibus.com
Grenoble Airport – 210 km / approx 3 hours Alp Line (www.alp-line.com) have private transfers and of course, a hire car option. Autocar Monet operate a regular coach for travel to Val d’Isere www.autocar-monet.fr, but you will need to call and book in advance on +33 476 93 40 00
By Road: The resort is just 375 miles (appx 600kms) from Calais by car which means that you can knock this section of the journey off in around 6 hours. Watch out for queues in and out of the Tarentaise valley during peak times in peak weeks however. Driving to the resort is very simple with the quickest route being the A26 motorway from Calais followed by the A4. Allow approximately £30/50 euros each way for road tolls.
By Train: La Rosiere also enjoys the benefits of the Eurostar’s snow train link directly into Bourg Saint Maurice, about 25 minutes away.
