Non-Ski Activities in La Plagne: The Mountain Experience Beyond the Slopes
While the La Plagne ski area is legendary for skiers, La Plagne offers a playground that is just as vast for those wishing to discover the mountains in other ways. From Chalet Dakota in Plagne 1800, we have selected authentic, sporty, and contemplative experiences for you. Whether you are seeking adrenaline on an Olympic track or serenity in the heart of the larch forests, here is our exclusive guide to the best winter activities to do in La Plagne.
Because the mountains in winter are a celebration for everyone, even without skis, we've created this guide to unveil our favorite activities. From the thrill of the bobsleigh track to snowshoeing excursions, we share with you the art of winter living at Chalet Dakota. Welcome to our haven, Aude & Sébastien.
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.
Snowshoeing: Immersion and Serenity in the Heart of the Vanoise
Snowshoeing in La Plagne is much more than just an alternative to skiing: it is a sensory immersion into the silence of the larch and spruce forests. For our guests at Chalet Dakota, it is an opportunity to discover a wilder and more authentic side of Paradiski, far from the hustle and bustle of the ski lifts.
Le Bief Bovet: Our "Personal Favourite" Route
If we had to choose just one, it would be the Bief Bovet hike. It is, by far, our favourite route for its absolute tranquility. The path winds through the forest, offering the perfect terrain for observing local wildlife and discovering Alpine wood species. It is an ideal itinerary for those looking to move at their own pace in a hushed atmosphere where only the crunch of snow beneath your snowshoes breaks the silence.
La Piste des Frasses: A Balcony Overlooking Mont Blanc
For a longer, more contemplative outing, we recommend the Piste des Frasses starting from Plagne Bellecôte. This 12 km round-trip route is a true natural balcony. Practically flat, it is accessible to walkers of all levels. The trail crosses varied landscapes and, on a clear day, offers spectacular openings with views of the Mont Blanc massif. It is the perfect route for a half-day escape before returning to warm up at the chalet.
- Snowshoeing equipment: No need to overpack. You will find high-quality snowshoes for rent in all the shops in Plagne 1800, just a few minutes' walk from Chalet Dakota.
- Safety: Although these trails are marked, we recommend setting off in the morning to make the most of the best light. For an enriched experience, don't hesitate to hire a local guide who can share the secrets of Savoyard geology and history.
- Guides and instructors: To discover unmarked trails and meet other hikers, we recommend using specialist snowshoe guides, notably Plagne Evasion. Guidebooks and maps are available in our chalets to help you choose the best routes.
- Access: Most trailheads are accessible via free shuttles, allowing you total freedom without having to use your car.
Enjoy the Spa and Heated Pool in Belle-Plagne with Breathtaking Views over Paradiski
A ski holiday is also about enjoying a heated pool with views of the snow-capped mountains. La Plagne offers:
- An outdoor swimming pool, open year-round in Plagne Bellecôte (2 minutes by shuttle)
- A Deep Nature Baths & Spa complex in Belle Plagne (2 minutes by shuttle from the chalet)
The Deep Nature Baths & Spa complex in Belle Plagne offers 1,500m² dedicated to well-being, set against a superb panorama of the Paradiski domain in the heart of nature. The complex, located in one of the nicest chalet in the Alps, is divided into two areas to meet everyone's needs:
- A "Family SPA" area for the whole family
- A "Premium SPA" area dedicated to adults and focused on serenity
Dog Sledding: A Great North Adventure at Dou du Praz
Experience total escape with dog sledding excursions organized by Hors Trace Aventure at Dou du Praz. This rolling plateau, located just above Plagne Village, offers a magnificent wild setting.
Become a Musher for a Day
Pulled by a team of 7 to 10 dogs, you glide through the silence of the snow, guided by the musher. This is a highly popular activity that requires advance booking.
Access: 20 minutes by shuttle from the chalet with one transfer at Plagne Centre.
La Plagne is one of the most famous ski areas in Europe for off-piste skiing!
Olympic Bobsleigh: A Unique Experience in France
La Plagne is home to the only Bobsleigh track in France, built for the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics. This ice ribbon, featuring 19 legendary turns, is a must-see for thrill-seekers.
Choose Your Level of Adrenaline
- Bob Raft: A self-guided, self-braking vehicle for 4 people. Ideal for families and a great first experience (80 km/h).
- Speed Luge: Go solo on a luge, lying on your back with an unobstructed view of the track (90 km/h).
- Bob Racing: For the truly brave. Sit behind a professional pilot in a competition bobsleigh for a descent reaching up to 120 km/h and intense G-force.
Access: Located in the La Roche sector, easily accessible via the free shuttle from Plagne 1800.
Ice Skate Rental and Waltzing on the Ice Rink
To the great delight of your children, put on your skates and meet up at the La Plagne ice rinks. This activity is accessible to everyone, from age 2 upwards.
Every winter, 2 ice rinks are set up in the La Plagne area:
- Plagne Centre Ice Rink (2 min by shuttle or 20 min walk): A 400m² rink in the village square, opposite the Tourist Office.
- Plagne Bellecôte Ice Rink (2 min by shuttle): A large 1,800m² natural outdoor rink located next to the departure of the Colosses chairlift.
Family Fun: Sledging Descents and Super Zipline
For teenagers and those who love a good laugh, La Plagne offers world-class sledging facilities.
Thrills guaranteed
- Colorado Luge: A legendary 1.5 km track in Plagne Centre. A must-do for guaranteed laughter with friends.
- Snake Gliss: A collective descent of 5 km and 600m of vertical drop through the forest at the close of the slopes.
- Super Tyro: Soar through the air on a 650m zipline, suspended 100m above the ground between Aime 2000 and Plagne Centre.
Snowmobile Tours: La Plagne Under the Stars
When the slopes close, the domain transforms. We highly recommend the excursions organized by Alexis, departing from Plagne Centre. It is a unique opportunity to see the resort light up from the mountain ridges.
A Spectacular Night-time Crossing
The approximately 12 km route takes you to the heights of the resort, offering an exceptional panoramic night view of the various villages and chalets of La Plagne. Whether solo or as a duo, you will pilot modern machines for an hour of pure freedom.
Paragliding: Soaring over Paradiski and the Vanoise
For an unforgettable perspective of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks, paragliding is a must-try experience. The teams at Air La Plagne and Air Tarentaise, based in Plagne Centre, are composed of expert enthusiasts in mountain flying and freestyle.
The sky within reach
Takeoff is done either on skis or on foot from the resort's summits (notably Grande Rochette or Roche de Mio). Depending on your preference, choose a contemplative discovery flight or an "acrobatic" flight for guaranteed thrills high above the slopes. It is a majestic way to appreciate the sheer scale of the ski area.
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.