Saint-Martin Gondola - Image 1
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Saint-Martin Gondola

4.6
·140 reviews·Les Belleville, France

A charming, authentic French village offering direct access to the vast Les 3 Vallées ski area, with a scenic blue run back to its heart.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

February

Peak snow conditions

CrowdMedium
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Saint-Martin Gondola - Image 1

Saint-Martin Gondola

Best Time

February

Peak snow conditions

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming, authentic French village offering direct access to the vast Les 3 Vallées ski area, with a scenic blue run back to its heart.

4.6
(140 reviews)

"Most charming town in the entire 3-Valleys. Small, cute & welcoming with a nice blue run from the top into the village."

Vertical photo
TIP

❄️ Best Snow in February

February typically offers the best snow conditions for skiing in Les 3 Vallées. :ski_lift:

🏡 Authentic Village Feel

Embrace the 'old Frenchy town' vibe; it's incredibly charming and welcoming. :house:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Charming Village Ambiance

Charming Village Ambiance

Experience a truly authentic French mountain village with traditional architecture and a welcoming atmosphere.

Blue Run to the Village

Blue Run to the Village

Enjoy a scenic blue ski run that brings you directly into the heart of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville.

Gateway to Les 3 Vallées

Gateway to Les 3 Vallées

Easily access one of the world's largest interconnected ski areas from this picturesque village.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While the Saint-Martin Gondola is accessible year-round, visiting during ski season (December to March) offers the best snow conditions. February is often cited as having the most reliable snow. Consider weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.

Village Charm & Ski Access

Saint-Martin-de-Belleville is a charming, traditional French village. The gondola provides access to the vast Les 3 Vallées ski area, but be aware you'll need to take a T-bar lift first to reach the main gondola for extensive skiing.

Best Times

When
February
Why
Peak snow conditions
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

What are Some must do slopes in les 3 Vallées?

❄️ Best Snow in February

February typically offers the best snow conditions for skiing in Les 3 Vallées. :ski_lift:

🏡 Authentic Village Feel

Embrace the 'old Frenchy town' vibe; it's incredibly charming and welcoming. :house:

reddit.com

What is the best time in the season to visit Les 3 Vallées?

reddit.com

Best part of Les Trois Vallées?

🎿 Ski Locker Convenience

Utilize the super nice ski lockers with warm bathrooms and hair dryers. :handbag:

➡️ Gondola Access Route

Remember to take the T-bar lift first to reach the main gondola for extensive skiing. :arrow_right:

reddit.com

Skiing 3 Vallées for first time

Tips

from all over the internet

❄️ Best Snow in February

February typically offers the best snow conditions for skiing in Les 3 Vallées. :ski_lift:

🏡 Authentic Village Feel

Embrace the 'old Frenchy town' vibe; it's incredibly charming and welcoming. :house:

🎿 Ski Locker Convenience

Utilize the super nice ski lockers with warm bathrooms and hair dryers. :handbag:

➡️ Gondola Access Route

Remember to take the T-bar lift first to reach the main gondola for extensive skiing. :arrow_right:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(140 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Saint-Martin-de-Belleville for its incredibly charming and authentic French village atmosphere, a welcome contrast to more modern resorts. The convenience of ski lockers and a blue run directly into the village are frequently highlighted positives. While the access to Les 3 Vallées is excellent, some may find the initial T-bar lift to reach the main gondola a minor step.

"Most charming town in the entire 3-Valleys. Small, cute & welcoming with a nice blue run from the top into the village"

Marc Frencken

"We love skiing and starting from this slope. It’s in a very charming town with nice people, super nice ski locker is there for you with warm bathroom and hair dryer! To get to the main ski area, just take T-bar for a few mins and there is a main gondola 🚠 wow we love this place!!!!!"

Mami Takeda

"Incredibly beautiful 😍"

Doug Adams

What People Like

Authentic village charm
Welcoming atmosphere
Convenient ski lockers

What People Dislike

Initial T-bar lift

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Saint-Martin-de-Belleville is accessible by road, with the nearest major airports being Geneva (GVA) and Lyon (LYS). From the airports, you can arrange private transfers, take a bus, or rent a car. The village itself is small and walkable, with the gondola station conveniently located.

Yes, there are parking facilities available in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. It's advisable to check the official resort website for the most up-to-date information on parking locations and any associated fees, especially during peak ski season.

Public transport options are available, typically involving a combination of trains to Moûtiers-Salins-Brides-les-Bains station, followed by a bus service to Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. Check schedules in advance, especially outside of the main ski season.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Lift passes for the Saint-Martin Gondola and the wider Les 3 Vallées area can be purchased online in advance through the official Les 3 Vallées website or directly at the ticket offices in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. Booking ahead can sometimes save time and money.

Operating hours vary depending on the season. During the winter ski season, the gondola typically runs from mid-December to late April. It's essential to check the official resort website for the exact daily operating times, as they can change.

Yes, a valid lift pass is required to use the Saint-Martin Gondola. The type of pass you need will depend on whether you are skiing, snowboarding, or simply wish to ride the gondola for scenic views. Passes can be purchased for single rides or for longer durations.

Les 3 Vallées often offers various packages and discounts, which may include family passes or group rates. It's best to explore the 'Prices' or 'Offers' section on their official website when planning your visit to find the most economical options.

🎫 ⛷️ On-Snow Experience

The Saint-Martin Gondola provides access to the extensive Les 3 Vallées ski area. You can reach various slopes, including the blue run that leads directly back into the charming village of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. It's a great starting point for exploring the vast domain.

Yes, Saint-Martin-de-Belleville is considered a good option for beginners, offering a charming village atmosphere and access to gentler slopes within Les 3 Vallées. The blue run into the village is particularly enjoyable for intermediates.

Based on traveler experiences, February is often highlighted as having the best snow conditions in Les 3 Vallées, offering a good balance of snow depth and sunshine. December and March can also be excellent, but February is frequently cited for its reliability. Reddit

Absolutely. Saint-Martin-de-Belleville has several reputable ski schools offering lessons for all levels, from absolute beginners to advanced skiers looking to refine their technique. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

📸 📸 Photography

The charming village itself offers numerous picturesque spots with traditional chalets and mountain backdrops. For panoramic views, consider the top of the gondola or nearby higher slopes within Les 3 Vallées. The blue run into the village provides a lovely perspective.

Early morning and late afternoon offer the most flattering light for photography, casting a warm glow on the village and surrounding mountains. Golden hour can be particularly magical. Consider the direction of the sun when planning your shots.

Yes, you can take photos from the gondola. Be mindful of reflections on the windows and try to capture the stunning alpine scenery as you ascend or descend. The views of the village and the valley are quite impressive.

For Different Travelers

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👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Saint-Martin-de-Belleville offers a wonderfully authentic and less commercialized experience, making it ideal for families. The charming village atmosphere is more relaxed, and the availability of convenient ski lockers with amenities like warm bathrooms is a significant plus for parents. Reddit The blue run into the village is also a gentle and enjoyable way for families to finish their ski day. Reddit

While the village itself is quaint, families will appreciate the easy access to the vast Les 3 Vallées ski area, ensuring plenty of terrain for all skill levels. Consider booking ski lessons in advance, as the local ski schools are well-equipped to handle younger learners. The overall ambiance of Saint-Martin provides a more peaceful base for a family ski holiday.

⛷️ Ski Enthusiasts

For serious skiers and snowboarders, Saint-Martin-de-Belleville is a gateway to the legendary Les 3 Vallées. The ability to quickly connect to the main ski area via the T-bar and gondola means you can spend more time on the slopes. February is often highlighted as the prime month for the best snow conditions, ensuring excellent skiing throughout the domain. Reddit

The village's charm is a welcome contrast to some of the larger, more bustling resorts. After a day of exploring hundreds of kilometers of pistes, returning to a picturesque and welcoming village adds to the overall experience. The convenience of ski lockers and the direct blue run back into town are thoughtful touches for dedicated skiers.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville

Saint-Martin-de-Belleville is often described as one of the most charming villages in the entire 3 Valleys. Unlike some of the more purpose-built resorts, it retains its authentic Savoyard character with traditional stone and wood chalets. This old Frenchy town feel is a major draw for visitors seeking a more serene and picturesque mountain experience. The village offers a welcoming atmosphere, making it a delightful place to stay and explore. Reddit

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Saint-Martin provides practical amenities for skiers. The availability of a 'super nice ski locker' with warm bathrooms and even hair dryers is a unique touch that enhances the visitor experience. This attention to detail contributes to the overall feeling of being well-cared for during your stay. Reddit

For skiers, the village offers a unique advantage: a beautiful blue run that descends directly into its heart. This allows for a scenic and enjoyable end to a day on the slopes, bringing you right back to the doorstep of your accommodation or a cozy village café. It’s a perfect blend of world-class skiing and traditional village life.

Accessing Les 3 Vallées Ski Area

The Saint-Martin Gondola serves as a crucial link to the expansive Les 3 Vallées ski area, one of the largest interconnected domains in the world. To access the main ski network, visitors typically need to take a short T-bar lift from the village, which then connects to the primary gondola. This initial ascent is a small price to pay for the vast terrain that opens up afterwards. Reddit

Once connected, skiers and snowboarders have access to over 600 kilometers of marked pistes, catering to all skill levels. The interconnectedness means you can ski from one resort to another without needing to remove your skis. This offers unparalleled variety and the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes and snow conditions throughout your visit. Reddit

While the primary focus is on skiing, the journey to and from the slopes via the gondola and T-bar offers its own scenic rewards. The views of the surrounding peaks and valleys are breathtaking, providing a constant reminder of the stunning alpine environment you are immersed in.

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