Montgenèvre, the oldest French ski resort with an Italian touch
Montgenèvre, located in the Hautes-Alpes department of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in Southeastern France, has a rich historical tapestry that intertwines with its strategic geographical position. Check our other ski resort, Serre Chevalier, in the Hautes Alpes.
Ancient History and Roman Influence
Roman Times: Montgenèvre’s history dates back to pre-Roman times, serving as an essential passage between Italy and France. Known as Alpis Cottia during Roman times, the Col de Montgenèvre was a part of the Via Domitia, one of the oldest Roman roads, built around 118 BC. This pass was crucial for Roman generals like Pompey, who used it during campaigns, and it is speculated that Hannibal might have crossed through here during his famous Alpine passage.
Medieval Era and Beyond
Strategic Importance: Its location near the border made Montgenèvre a significant point of passage and defence. The area was fortified with various structures like the Fort du Chaberton, built by the Italians in the early 20th century, known as the “Fort des Nuages” due to its high altitude of 3,131 meters.
Historical Events: During the Middle Ages, Montgenèvre was part of the Escartons, a federation of mountain communities. It saw significant historical moments like the passage of Julius Caesar in 58 BC on his way to Gaul and even the transit of Pope Pius VI in 1799, who was being deported to France.
Modern Era and Ski Resort Development:
Skiing Pioneers: Montgenèvre became France’s oldest ski resort when it organized the first international ski competition in 1907. This event began its legacy as a skiing destination, initially attracting the Parisian elite.
Olympic Connection: The resort was significantly upgraded for the 2006 Turin Winter Olympics, enhancing its infrastructure and visibility. This period saw the construction of new lifts and improvements to existing facilities to cater to a broader international audience.
Cultural Heritage: Montgenèvre retains historical landmarks like the Napoleon Obelisk, built to commemorate road improvements under Napoleon’s rule, and the Notre Dame des Sept Douleurs chapel, reflecting its deep-rooted history alongside its alpine charm.
History of Skiing in Montgenèvre
Montgenèvre, located in the French Alps near the Italian border, is one of the oldest ski resorts in France, with skiing activities documented since the early 20th century. Officially recognized as a ski resort in 1907, Montgenèvre pioneered the region’s winter sports. Initially, it served as a passage between France and Italy, reflected in its historical role and geographical layout. The resort was a favourite among the Paris jet set in the 1930s, gaining significant popularity. British skiers started visiting in the 1990s, giving it the nickname “Monty.” Over the years, Montgenèvre has maintained its charm while evolving into a modern ski destination, with significant infrastructure upgrades, including diverting heavy traffic through a tunnel in 2006 to preserve the village’s authenticity.
Ski Options Today
Rocher de l’Aigle, Montgenèvre
Ski Terrain: Montgenèvre is part of the expansive Milky Way ski area (Via Lattea), which spans the French-Italian border and offers over 400km of skiable terrain. The resort itself provides 110km of pistes, with a variety of slopes catering to all skill levels. The ski area is divided into four main sectors: Chalmettes, Gondrans, Serre Thibaud, and Prarial, all accessible directly from the resort centre. The slopes are distributed as follows: 23% green, 34% blue, 30% red, and 13% black, providing a balanced mix for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers.
Beginner and Family-Friendly: Montgenèvre is particularly well-suited for beginners and families, with a large, dedicated beginners’ area right next to the village, ensuring easy access for novices. The nursery slopes are served by user-friendly lifts like magic carpets and conveyors, making it an ideal place to learn skiing or snowboarding.
Intermediate and Advanced Skiing: For intermediates, there are numerous blue and red runs, with opportunities for progression through varied and scenic terrain. Advanced skiers can enjoy challenging black runs like the famous Gondrans, as well as off-piste skiing opportunities in areas like Vallée de la Clarée. Montgenèvre’s high altitude ensures good snow conditions, and the resort’s connection to the Milky Way allows for extensive exploration into Italy.
Lift System: The resort is equipped with 38 lifts, including efficient gondolas, chairlifts, and drag lifts, facilitating quick access to various parts of the mountain. Despite some criticism regarding the speed of some lifts, the absence of long queues often compensates for this, offering a more relaxed skiing experience.
Additional Activities: Beyond skiing, Montgenèvre offers various activities like dog sledding, ice skating, paragliding, and tobogganing. The Durancia Spa & Balneo Center provides relaxation options, and there are cultural excursions to nearby historic towns like Briançon or into Italy for dining experiences.
Accommodation and Dining: The village provides a range of accommodation from budget-friendly to upscale hotels and apartments, many ski-in/ski-out. Dining options reflect both French and Italian influences, with numerous restaurants offering everything from pizza to gourmet French cuisine.
In summary, Montgenèvre combines a rich history with modern ski facilities, offering a comprehensive skiing experience that caters to all levels while preserving its quaint, village atmosphere.
