Face de Bellevarde
Legendary Olympic black run in Val d'Isère/Tignes, known for its steep challenge and breathtaking alpine views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Snow softens, better skiing
Face de Bellevarde
Best Time
Snow softens, better skiing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Legendary Olympic black run in Val d'Isère/Tignes, known for its steep challenge and breathtaking alpine views.
"A black run that's a bit tricky with its steep slope, but very enjoyable!"
❄️ Ride when snow is soft
Tackle La Face late morning after it's thawed for a smoother, more enjoyable ski.
🏅 Conquer the Olympic run
Experience a challenging black run that hosted the 1992 Olympic downhill.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Olympic Downhill
Face de Bellevarde
Tackle the legendary black run that tested Olympic athletes. Steep, challenging, and unforgettable.
Panoramic Mountain Views
Top of Face de Bellevarde
Soak in breathtaking vistas from the summit before your descent. A truly awe-inspiring panorama.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything on La Face
Olympic Challenge Awaits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
❄️ Ride when snow is soft
Tackle La Face late morning after it's thawed for a smoother, more enjoyable ski.
🏅 Conquer the Olympic run
Experience a challenging black run that hosted the 1992 Olympic downhill.
[Discussion] What is your most embarrassing moment on the mountain?
📸 Stunning summit views
Enjoy incredible panoramic views from the top before you ski down.
Tips
from all over the internet
❄️ Ride when snow is soft
Tackle La Face late morning after it's thawed for a smoother, more enjoyable ski.
🏅 Conquer the Olympic run
Experience a challenging black run that hosted the 1992 Olympic downhill.
📸 Stunning summit views
Enjoy incredible panoramic views from the top before you ski down.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Face de Bellevarde is celebrated for its challenging Olympic-grade black run and stunning summit views, offering an exhilarating experience for advanced skiers. However, visitors should be mindful of snow conditions, with late morning being the preferred time to ski. Some dining experiences have been noted as problematic.
"Food poisoning warning!
I ate here and ordered the burger, chips and drink combo for €20. I ended up having 24 hours of food poisoning missing a whole day of skiing because of this meal. I would recommend no one eat here."
Harry Hindle
"Seriously the best place to start skiing , easy runs and a good view."
Christophe Rivet Sørensen
"Amazing experience, lots of lifts. Mabey my favourite place in tignes."
Paul Miklovits
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Face de Bellevarde is accessible via ski lifts from Val d'Isère and Tignes. The most common access is via the Bellevarde Express gondola from Val d'Isère or the Olympique gondola from Tignes. Ensure you have a valid ski pass for the area.
No, Face de Bellevarde is a black-rated run and is very steep. It is only recommended for advanced and expert skiers. Beginners should stick to easier slopes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You will need a valid ski pass for the Espace Killy (now Val d'Isère-Tignes) ski area to access the lifts that lead to Face de Bellevarde.
Lift operating hours vary depending on the season and specific lift. Generally, lifts open around 9:00 AM and close between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM. It's best to check the official Val d'Isère or Tignes ski resort websites for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Face de Bellevarde is a black-rated run, meaning it is very difficult. It is known for its steep gradient and challenging conditions, making it suitable only for experienced skiers.
For the best experience, ski Face de Bellevarde late morning when the snow has had time to thaw and soften. Skiing it when it's frozen can make it very icy and difficult.
Face de Bellevarde gained international fame as the venue for the men's downhill ski race during the 1992 Winter Olympics held in Albertville.
The summit offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Alps, making it an excellent spot for photos before you descend.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't dining directly on the Face itself, there are several mountain restaurants accessible from the slopes in Val d'Isère and Tignes. Be cautious with food choices; one reviewer reported food poisoning from a burger combo.
The main dining options are typically found at the base of the Bellevarde area or in the connected resort villages. It's advisable to check resort maps for specific mountain restaurant locations and opening times.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧👦 Advanced Skiers & Thrill-Seekers
For those who love a challenge, Face de Bellevarde offers an unforgettable experience. It's a chance to ski a run that has tested the world's best. Be prepared for a demanding descent, and if you're looking for an extra thrill, consider tackling it on a day with fresh snowfall (but be mindful of avalanche risks and resort advisories). The sense of achievement after completing this run is immense.
📸 Photographers & View Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during different times of the day to capture varying light conditions. The expansive vistas make it a prime location for both sunrise and sunset photography, weather permitting. The sheer scale of the landscape from this vantage point is truly awe-inspiring.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conquering the Olympic Challenge
Many visitors are drawn to Face de Bellevarde for the sheer thrill and the bragging rights of having skied an Olympic venue. The experience is amplified by the superb views from the summit, offering a breathtaking panorama of the French Alps. However, it's crucial to approach this run with caution. As one traveler noted, 'Ride it late morning when it's had time to thaw, otherwise you'll have a bad time!' This advice highlights the importance of timing your descent to ensure the best possible snow conditions and a more enjoyable, less icy experience.
Access to Face de Bellevarde is typically via the Bellevarde Express gondola from Val d'Isère or the Olympique gondola from Tignes. A valid ski pass for the Val d'Isère-Tignes ski area is required. While the run itself is challenging, the surrounding area offers a variety of other slopes for different skill levels, making it part of a larger, world-class ski resort experience.
Navigating the Slopes and Safety
Safety on Face de Bellevarde involves more than just good skiing technique. It's about respecting the mountain and your own abilities. If you're not an experienced skier comfortable with steep, challenging terrain, it's wise to admire the run from the lift or the viewing areas and opt for easier slopes. The consequences of a fall on such a steep gradient can be severe. Always ski within your limits and be aware of other skiers around you.
For those who are confident, the descent offers an exhilarating ride. The feeling of accomplishment after successfully navigating this famous run is immense. Remember to check the resort's piste map and any real-time condition reports available at the ski schools or lift stations.
Social
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