What to do in La Plagne when it rains? The Chalet Dakota Expert Guide

At high altitude, rain isn't a setback; it’s a change of atmosphere. It heightens the scents of the stone pine forests, swells the Isère river for epic rafting sessions, and offers the perfect excuse for deep relaxation in our wellness spaces. From our base in Plagne 1800, we’ve handpicked the best alternatives to turn a rainy day into a memorable highlight of your stay in La Plagne.

Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush on the white water, indoor culture, or a moment of pure cocooning as the mist rolls over the Vanoise peaks, this guide reveals all the summer activities available to ensure you don’t miss a second of the Savoyard magic.

1. White Water: Rafting, the Ultimate Waterproof Activity

It’s the secret known by locals: rain changes nothing when it comes to white-water sports. On the Isère, one of France’s most beautiful rivers, you’re already kitted out in full 5mm neoprene wetsuits. Whether the sky is blue or grey, the thrill of tackling rapids like the Machine à Laver or the Gorges de la Pucelle remains exactly the same.

• Why choose rafting in the rain: The sense of adventure is heightened by the mystical atmosphere of the mist hanging over the river.
• Location: The departure bases in Aime (15 mins from Plagne 1800) offer Rafting, Hydrospeeding, and Canoe-Rafting.

2. Forest Hikes: Enhanced Scents and Colours

When the peaks are lost in the clouds, the forest trails of La Plagne offer an enchanted refuge. The rain brings out the scents of resin and humus, providing an olfactory experience that you will never find in dry weather. Put on a raincoat and head out for a short hike.

• The trail from Plagne 1800 to La Roche (from the chalet): The themed trail connecting Plagne 1800 (starting from Le Loup Blanc restaurant) to La Roche is a dive into local heritage thanks to its interesting educational boards. Throughout this gentle downhill walk, these stages retrace the epic history of the former silver-lead mines that shaped the village's identity long before the arrival of skiers. It is a cultural and peaceful walk, ideal for understanding how this underground activity marked the valley's history while enjoying the calm and scents of the damp forest. Return via the resort shuttle to the Plagne 1800 Haut stop (2-minute walk).
• The Sentier des Frasses (Plagne Bellecôte toward the chalets of Les Coches): A balcony route, very flat and protected by a thick canopy. The light is soft here, and the contrasts of green are striking.
• The Sentier du Bief Bovet: Starting from the Bobsleigh track toward the independant chalets of Montalbert, this path winds through the forest. The sound of rain on the larch needles and the murmur of the stream create an absolute Zen atmosphere.
• Dakota Tip: Gear up with a quality Gore-Tex jacket and end the walk with a hot chocolate at the Le Loup Blanc restaurant in Plagne 1800.

3. Absolute Relaxation: The Deep Nature Spa in Belle Plagne

What could be more luxurious than swimming in water heated to 31°C while raindrops pitter-patter on the surface? The Bains de Belle-Plagne features a Deep Nature Spa (1500m²) which is the ultimate sanctuary for grey days.

• The Premium Space: Sauna, hammam, and an outdoor aquatic trail with views of the misty ridges.
• The "Family Spa": A dedicated area so your children can also enjoy the joys of hydrotherapy.
• The Private Alternative: Don't forget that our chalets have their own Scandinavian sauna. This is the perfect time for a muscle recovery session accompanied by a good book from our library.

4. Bowling, Cinema and Escape Game: Indoor La Plagne

La Plagne has invested heavily in indoor leisure infrastructure to guarantee entertainment whatever the weather. Plagne Centre and Plagne Bellecôte are the main hubs for these activities.

• DVDs in your chalet: Our chalets offer dozens of DVDs for the family to watch together in the TV room.
• Holidays Bowling: Located in Plagne Centre, this is the go-to meeting spot for families and teenagers. A warm atmosphere and arcade games are guaranteed.
• Les Écrins Cinema in Plagne Centre: Catch the latest national releases in a comfortable setting. On rainy (or snowy) days, an extra screening is often added in the early afternoon.
• Escape Game in Plagne Bellecôte: Test your team spirit with immersive scenarios.
• Climbing Wall: For the active, the indoor wall in Plagne Centre lets you stay vertically fit while sheltered from the elements. A specialist climbing gym is also located in Aime-La-Plagne, right next to the Leclerc supermarket.

5. The Art of Cocooning at Chalet Dakota

Sometimes, the best activity is to do nothing at all. Our chalets have been designed as premium refuges where it simply feels good to gather.

Settle into our spacious living room, start a DVD with the family in the ground-floor TV room, or host a board game tournament over a selection of fine teas. The mountain light during rainy weather is perfect for reading and contemplation through our large bay windows.

It is also the perfect opportunity to order a fondue or raclette from our catering partners in Plagne 1800 for a convivial dinner without ever having to leave the chalet.