3 VALLEYS BEST & SECRET SPOTS

March 2026
During busy periods, the 3 Vallées are full of little-known spots where you can escape the crowds and enjoy the mountains to the full. Discover our secret spots for skiing, hiking or simply enjoying the peace and quiet, away from the crowded slopes.
Ski area Les 3 Vallées Holiday tips

TOP 3 VIEWPOINTS NOT TO BE MISSED IN THE 3 VALLEYS

 

A few viewpoints where you can feel alone at the summit: breathe in the fresh air and marvel at the breathtaking panoramas.

 

Mont Vallon and its stunning view of the Gébroulaz glacier

 

Perched at an altitude of 2,952 metres, Mont Vallon stands out as one of the most spectacular panoramas in the 3 Valleys. Accessible from Méribel Mottaret, this iconic peak offers a striking view of the Gébroulaz glacier and the surrounding Alpine peaks. Here, the landscape becomes wilder, more rugged, almost surreal, far from the hustle and bustle of the ski area.

 

It is easily accessible in winter via the ski lifts, before you find yourself immersed in a high-mountain atmosphere. Upon reaching the summit, the silence, the light and the vastness of the setting create a truly timeless escape. In the morning, when the first rays of light illuminate the glacier, or in the middle of the day under a perfectly clear sky, the spectacle is simply unforgettable.

 

It is also an ideal spot for capturing unique memories. A wooden heart, set against the backdrop of the peaks, invites you to capture the moment in an exceptional setting. Whether you are an experienced skier, a lover of the great outdoors, or simply in search of a breathtaking viewpoint, Mont Vallon is one of those places you discover once… and never forget.

 

 

The summit of the Roc de Fer and its view of Mont Blanc

 

At the terminus of the Olympic Express, the Roc de Fer rises to an altitude of 2,294 metres and reveals one of the valley’s most impressive panoramas. From this iconic summit, accessible from Méribel, the view stretches 360° across the Alpine landscape, with the majestic Mont Blanc standing out against the horizon. A spectacular view that immediately gives you the feeling of being in the heart of the great outdoors.

 

Easy to reach in both winter and summer, the Roc de Fer is an ideal spot to stop for a break between runs or during a day of mountain exploration. The atmosphere here is both panoramic and soothing, offering a pleasant contrast to the intensity of skiing on the slopes.

 

At the summit, everything is designed to help you make the most of the moment. Specially designed relaxation areas invite you to settle in and take in the scenery: picnic spots, hanging hammocks and viewing points allow you to savour the view in a privileged setting. Whether for a lunch break at altitude or simply to take the time to admire the peaks, the spot lends itself perfectly to contemplation.

 

It’s also impossible to miss the wooden heart, which has become an unmissable spot for capturing your visit. With its sense of freedom and spectacular scenery, the Roc de Fer is one of those places where you stop… and end up staying longer than planned.

 

 

THE MYTHICAL COL DE LA LOZE

 

Situated at an altitude of 2,304 metres, the Col de la Loze is one of the most iconic passes linking Méribel to Courchevel. Accessible from both resorts, this unique summit offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, from alpine ridges to vast snow-covered expanses.

 

In winter, the Col de la Loze can be reached on skis, at the junction of several runs that allow you to switch easily from one side of the 3 Vallées to the other. It is a strategic crossing point, but also a real stopping point to enjoy the scenery. Here, you can take the time to watch skiers glide down the various slopes of the ski area, whilst admiring the unobstructed view of the 3 Vallées peaks and Mont Blanc. 

 

In summer, the pass reveals a completely different side. Closed to cars, it becomes a favourite spot for cyclists and hikers, drawn by its famous route that winds its way through the mountains. The climb, demanding yet accessible, offers remarkable views all along the route, until you reach this pass perched between two valleys.

 

Whether for a ski crossing, a panoramic break or a sporting challenge by bike, the Col de la Loze is one of those unmissable spots that make a mountain holiday truly memorable. An iconic pass, between Méribel and Courchevel, where you can fully appreciate the scale and diversity of the 3 Vallées.

 

 

Hidden rest areas to take a break on the slopes  

 

The Lake Hut 

Ideal for soaking up the sun, stretching your legs or having a picnic, this former ski patrol hut has been refurbished for your comfort and well-being.

Hammocks, deckchairs, smartphone chargers... Everything is provided to ensure you have the perfect break!

 

The Trappers’ Cabin

An authentic wooden and stone cabin, the Trappers’ Cabin offers a cosy and comfortable interior: tables, chairs, a space to warm your gloves and even facilities to charge your phones.

 

Refuges open in winter

 

Refuge du Plan

Nestled in the heart of the Plan de Tuéda nature reserve, near Méribel Mottaret, the Refuge du Plan is an authentic and welcoming stop-off, ideal for taking a break in the heart of the mountains. Surrounded by forests and overlooked by the Alpine peaks, this unspoilt spot offers a peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the resort.

 

Easily accessible on foot, particularly during a walk around Lake Tuéda, the refuge fits perfectly into a nature outing, in winter as well as in summer. After a snowshoe hike or a family walk, you’ll discover a welcoming spot where time seems to slow down, inviting you to fully enjoy the surrounding setting.

 

Whether on its sunny terrace or inside, in an authentic mountain atmosphere, the Refuge du Plan offers simple, tasty home-cooked food. It’s the ideal spot for a lunch in the sun, a gourmet snack or a well-deserved break after a day’s exertion.

Whether for a gourmet break during a hike or to linger a while by the lake, the Refuge du Plan is one of those unassuming yet precious spots that we’re happy to recommend… and that we love to return to on every visit.

 

Refuge du Christ

 

Situated in an unspoilt setting at an altitude of nearly 1,700 metres, close to Méribel and the Traye area, the Refuge du Christ is a hidden gem that embodies the true spirit of the mountains. Nestled in the heart of the mountain pastures, it charms with its warm, family-friendly atmosphere, ideal for a genuine break away from the hustle and bustle.

 

Accessible by foot or on snowshoes depending on the season, the refuge is the perfect setting for a nature getaway, amidst forests, clearings and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. People come here as much for the setting as for the experience, with that rare sense of disconnection and simplicity.

With a capacity of around 13 people, the Refuge du Christ offers an intimate and friendly atmosphere. It is the perfect place for small groups, whether with friends or family, where you can share unique moments in an authentic mountain setting.

 

Whether for a break during a hike or a night at altitude, the Refuge du Christ offers a different experience, closer to nature, where the essentials take centre stage.

 

Refuge de la TraYe 

 

Perched above Les Villards, near Méribel, this refuge, fully renovated in 2019, invites you to enjoy a true escape in the heart of the mountains. Nestled at an altitude of nearly 1,700 metres, in a preserved forest setting, it offers an exceptional setting where tranquillity and nature come into their own.

Accessible on foot or by snowshoes depending on the season, the journey itself is part of the experience. The path winds through the forest, gradually giving way to a more intimate atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.

 

On site, the refuge offers top-of-the-range facilities, whilst retaining the authenticity of a mountain retreat. Whether for lunch in the sunshine, a cosy dinner, a night at altitude or a moment of relaxation with a massage, every moment is spent in an atmosphere that is both elegant and soothing.

 

Combining comfort, nature and an immersive experience, this refuge is one of those rare gems that are a pleasure to discover… and which we recommend without hesitation for a different way of experiencing the mountains.

 

      

 

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