What to do in autumn at Val Cenis
Walks
Vanoise National Park from BellecombeFrom Bellecombe, discover the trails of the Vanoise National Parka haven of unspoilt nature.
In autumn, the landscapes take on golden hues, offering an exceptional setting for observing gypsies, eagles, chamois and ibex in their natural environment. As for the marmots, they have already returned to their burrows. We'll have to wait until spring to see them again!
These hikes are also accessible to all levels, with routes suitable for families and experienced hikers alike, and allow you to take full advantage of the tranquility and beauty of the Haute Maurienne Vanoise mountains, high altitude lakes and mountain pastures.
Excursions
Mont Cenis and a trip to ItalyLe Mont Cenissituated at an altitude of 1,974 metres at the crossroads between France and Italy, is a jewel of Alpine beauty. In autumn, its landscapes reveal shimmering colors and offer superb panoramic views of its immense lake, ancient Italian forts, alpine meadows and peaks rising to 3000m.
The region invites serene and rewarding exploration, with the possibility of crossing the border to discover the charms of neighboring Italy, including the town of Susa, renowned for its ancient and medieval charm, or Turin, the capital of Piedmont.
Please note: access to Mont Cenis is closed after the second Monday in November (date subject to change: road closure may be brought forward depending on weather conditions; check savoie-route.com for traffic conditions).
An evening by the fire?
What better way to create a unique atmosphere at the end of the day than with an open fire when you're back from an autumn stroll? Discover our selection of the most beautiful apartments and chalets with fireplaces at Val Cenis. And at this time of year, you'll also benefit from very competitive rates.
Visit
Churches and archaeological museumVal Cenis is packed with historical and cultural treasures to be discovered in its 5 villages and remarkable churches.
For example, the church of Notre-Dame de l'Assomption in Termignon, open all year round, is a fine example of Savoyard Baroque, with its five carved, gilded and polychrome wooden altarpieces.
In a different style, the ancient church of Saint-Pierre d'Extravacheabove Bramans, is a magnificent destination for a stroll. The setting is sumptuous (and 200% Instagram-able!), with the golden melezes, the bell tower lost in the mountain pastures and the Dent Parrachée in the background. A via ferrata and a vertiginous Himalayan footbridge await you right next door to mix heritage and outdoor activities.
To further enrich your discovery, don't miss the Museum of Archaeology Val Cenis. Located in Sollières-Sardières, the museum invites you to explore the very roots of the region through an impressive collection of objects dating from prehistoric times to the Gallo-Roman era.
Here, you can discover flint tools, ancient pottery and housing elements that tell the story of the first inhabitants of Haute Maurienne Vanoise. This place of memory offers a unique perspective on the evolution of the valley and its inhabitants over the centuries.
Children's activities
Trampolines and labyrinthAt Val Cenis, enjoy a large indoor structure dedicated to children: La Tête à l'Envers. With an adventure area on several levels, trampolines, a mini-karting course... Ideal for children aged 18 months and over. And a great way for the kids to let off steam if the weather isn't cooperating during your autumn break.
Outdoor activities
Via-ferrata, mountain biking, climbing, cross-country skiing...Would you like to enjoy autumn and the golden larch trees in outdoor mode? Many activities are still available in the off-season at Val Cenis and Haute Maurienne Vanoise, including the via ferrata at Ambin, above Val Cenis-Bramans.
Just next door to Val Cenis, take advantage of all the activities and discoveries on offer at the Barrière de l'Esseillon: vertiginous via ferrata, accrobranche (tree climbing) punctuated by huge zip lines, visits to forts ...
At La Norma, every weekend you can also take to the track on a toboggan. And from November, you can get back to cross-country skiing at Bessans, the 1st resort to open in France.
