What to do in spring in Val Cenis
Discover Mont Cenis in the spring
As soon as the mountain pass road reopens (usually on the second Friday in May, the date may vary depending on snow conditions), the Mont Cenis plateau becomes a must-visit destination. With its lake, wide-open spaces, and unique atmosphere, it is one of the most beautiful sites in Haute Maurienne Vanoise.
You can also take this route to head down to Italy to enjoy some gelato in Susa or for a day of shopping and museums in Turin (a 1.5-hour drive from Val Cenis).
Watching marmots and wildlife
Spring is the best time to observe wildlife. After winter, marmots, ibex, and chamois are much easier to spot than in summer. This is because there aren’t many people in the mountains yet, and the animals are less skittish.
In the spring, marmots are particularly common throughout the Mont Cenis plateau. But be careful—drive slowly! Still sleepy after long months of hibernation, they tend to lounge in the middle of the road!
High-altitude walks and hikes
As the snow gradually melts, the valley trails become accessible. For example, enjoy easy walks and flower-filled fields along the Arc River on the Chemin du Petit Bonheur.
June is also the perfect time to go backpacking in Val Cenis
- Tour of the Vanoise Glaciers starting from Termignon
- Tour of the Etache Valley starting from Bramans or the Mont Cenis Pass
Multi-day hikes are easier to organize than in the height of summer, with more availability at mountain huts. Check access conditions (snowfields may still be present at higher elevations during this time) with the hut wardens.
Restaurants open in Val Cenis Haute Maurienne Vanoise
In the spring, the Haute Maurienne Vanoise Val Cenis whole new Val Cenis .Whether you’re just passing through, on vacation, or a local, here are some great places to eat this spring in Val Cenis throughout the Haute Maurienne Vanoise region.
Cycling: Riding the Great Alpine Passes
As soon as the mountain passes and high-altitude roads open, the peaks are yours for the taking! Spring marks the return of cycling in Val Cenis Haute Maurienne Vanoise
And of course, in June, drive out to Bonneval-sur-Arc and treat yourself to the Iserane. A climb on a road closed to cars up to Europe’s highest road pass, at 2,700 meters! A selfie between the snow walls is a must!
To ensure a stress-free stay for you and your bike, check out our selection of accommodations “Bike-friendly”
Outdoor activities and thrills
As the snow melts, activities are picking up again:
- rafting and whitewater (high water flow)
- via ferrata and rock climbing
The perfect time to seek out thrills.
And if the weather is iffy (and yes, that happens in the spring!), why not challenge your friends or family to an escape game ?
Discover all the activities in Val Cenis
Discover the local heritage and culture
In Val Cenis, spring is the perfect time to visit:
- Baroque churches
- chapels
- Archaeology Museum (open from mid-May)
A more peaceful experience, away from the crowds.
Spring river fishing
Fishing in the Arc: fario and beautiful walksThe Arc, the torrent that originates in Bonneval-sur-Arc and flows all the way down the valley, is a favorite spot for local anglers starting in the spring. Brown and rainbow trout are the main catch. In Val Cenis, some areas also offer “catch-and-release” fishing. Be aware, however, that in the spring, the water flow depends on snowmelt.
Book your spring accommodation now
Find out more about our furnished accommodation available for this period! Our reservations department will be happy to help you with your search on 04 79 05 99 10.
Book your accommodation and leisure activities in Haute Maurienne Vanoise
What to do in spring in Val Cenis
Hiking, ski touring, biking through snow-covered landscapes, watching marmots emerge from hibernation, exploring local heritage, and outdoor activities such as via ferrata and paragliding.
Why visit the mountains in the spring?
To enjoy a quieter mountain setting, with a mix of snow and nature. May and June are spectacular, with fields and mountain pastures blanketed in thousands of wildflowers (farmers usually mow the fields in late June).
Can you still go skiing in the spring?
Yes, the slopes are open until mid-April in Val Cenis, and even until the end of April in Bonneval-sur-Arc. Then there’s ski touring in May, since spring is the “traditional” season for ski touring.
Are stores open in the spring?
While many businesses are closed after the long winter season, there are always restaurants and shops offering basic services during the off-season: the Haute Maurienne Vanoise inhabited year-round!
Discover all the restaurants, caterers, and food trucks open this spring in Haute Maurienne Vanoise.
Is there a bus service in the spring?
Yes, a bus service is available in the spring in the Haute Maurienne Vanoise region. Buses require a reservation.
Download the Spring-Fall Transportation Guide