Why choose La Plagne for your summer hiking?
The La Plagne domain, in the heart of Paradiski, stands out for its geological and climatic diversity. You will find three distinct atmospheres:
- Valleys and Alpine Pastures: Ideal for spotting marmots and discovering pastoral life (Beaufort cheese production, traditional dairies).
- The High Mountains: Toward the Chiaupe Glacier or the Bellecôte summit (3,417m), for a raw, mineral experience.
- The "Versant du Soleil" (Sunny Side): A south-facing slope offering plunging views over the Tarentaise valley and the Beaufortain massif.
Hiking is one of our family passions. It’s a time to disconnect, walk together, talk... in short, to reconnect. Every year, we head off for 5 to 7 days of family trekking (Mont Blanc, Queyras, Dolomites, ...).
1. Family Experiences: Gentle Trails in La Plagne
Family hiking is the art of shared discovery. For our guests, we have selected itineraries that are accessible, fun, and safe.
Lac Vert: The Hidden Gem of Plagne 1800
This is our number one recommendation for your first day. Located directly across from Plagne 1800 chalets, Lac Vert (Green Lake) is an emerald pearl nestled in the forest. The route is very easy (2 km, approx. 40 min).
Expert Tip: For a perfect loop, head back down toward Plagne 1800 via the Loup Blanc restaurant. It’s the ideal spot for a memorable picnic facing the peaks.
Dou du Praz: Panoramas and Marmots
Starting from Plagne Village (a 4-minute drive from the chalet), this 4 to 5 km loop is pure enchantment. The trail winds through typical alpine landscapes. You’ll come across the famous alpine farm where local cheese is made, as well as vacationers enjoying E-MTB rides.
- Difficulty: Very easy.
- The Dakota "Plus": Children will love spotting the many marmot colonies that inhabit the area. Don’t forget your binoculars!
The Bief Bovet Trail: A Journey Through History (13th Century)
This is a unique cultural hike. The trail goes from La Plagne bobsleigh track to the chalets of Montalbert. You will follow a small man-made stream ("bief") for several kilometers, which was dug in the Middle Ages to irrigate valley lands.
Over 80 educational signs line the path, explaining the history of water management through the centuries. A shaded, flat, and fascinating itinerary.
TOP 5 SUMMER ACTIVITIES
- Mountain Biking (DH)
- Hiking
- Via Ferrata
- Rafting or Canyoning
- Mountain Karting
2. High-Altitude Lakes : Refreshment and Serenity
Nothing beats the feeling of reaching a high-altitude lake after a hike under the Tarentaise sun.
Lac du Carroley: Swimming and Fishing
Accessible from Belle Plagne (3h round trip, +308m elevation gain), Lac du Carroley offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks reflecting in its clear waters. It is a perfect spot for a dip for the bravest swimmers or for fishing (permits available at the Decathlon in Aime).
Lac d'Amour: Romance in the Beaufortain
For those willing to take a 40-minute drive toward the Versant du Soleil, Lac d'Amour is an unmissable destination. Nestled at the foot of the Pierra Menta, this heart-shaped lake is one of the most iconic in the region.
The various La Plagne Tourist Offices can provide advice on alternative routes. You will also find IGN maps and detailed guidebooks in our chalets covering the most beautiful hikes in the Tarentaise region.
3. Alpine Challenges: Itineraries for Seasoned Hikers
For athletes seeking significant elevation gain and airy ridges, La Plagne offers technical and untamed trails.
Mont Jovet: Our Absolute Favorite
Considered one of the most beautiful hikes in Savoie, the route starting from Aime 2000 is an 11.4 km loop (800m elevation gain). The panorama at the summit is breathtaking: a 360° view including Mont Blanc, the Écrins, and the Vanoise massif.
The Grand Tour of La Plagne and the Vanoise
La Plagne is the gateway to the Vanoise National Park. For those who love multi-day trekking, we recommend:
- The 3-Day Trek: Nights in mountain refuges (Coire, Econdu) in the heart of wild nature.
- The Grand Tour of La Plagne: A 5-day adventure to complete a full circuit of the domain and discover all its facets.
👉 Feeling athletic? Why not try mountain biking?
If you take on the Mont Jovet loop, have lunch at the Refuge du Mont Jovet before returning along the ridges toward the Col du Becoin. It is a demanding day (around 6 hours) but truly rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking in La Plagne
The ideal season runs from mid-June to the end of September. In July and August, the flora is at its peak. In September, the autumn light offers exceptional visibility of the glaciers.
Yes, marmots are omnipresent at Dou du Praz and Mont Jovet. For ibex and chamois, head to the Vanoise National Park sectors early in the morning.
The La Plagne domain benefits from exemplary trail marking (yellow for local paths, red/white for GR long-distance trails). We also provide Chalet Dakota guests with IGN maps and detailed guidebooks.
Best price guaranteed
Booking direct allows you to avoid platform commissions (approx. 15%) and benefit from the lowest possible rate.
Check availabilityExpérience Dakota: Your Premium Rentals in La Plagne 1800
Much more than an anonymous chalet rental in La Plagne, Expérience Dakota is first and foremost a passion project run by private owners who love La Plagne. We have purchased and renovated our collection of retreats in Plagne 1800 as genuine family homes, a world away from standard hotel experiences. Whether you choose the flagship Chalet Dakota — which can host up to 15 guests — or one of our other gems in the heart of Paradiski, you will stay in a place with soul, designed for creating lasting memories with family and friends.
As dedicated owners, our priority is the complete success of your alpine getaway. Unlike a standardised mountain chalet rental, we pride ourselves on offering direct, personalised support. From preparing for your arrival to sharing insider tips on the resort's best-kept secrets, we share our local expertise with you. Choosing an Expérience Dakota chalet means enjoying the 5-star comfort of a prestige property with the warmth and responsiveness of a direct owner-to-guest welcome.
Discover our chalet collection and book your alpine escape.