Rocher de Bellevarde - green grass field and gray rocky mountain during daytime
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Rocher de Bellevarde

4.8
·13 reviews·Val-d'Isère, France

A breathtaking summit offering 360° alpine panoramas, accessible by cable car, with challenging ski runs in winter.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer views, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Rocher de Bellevarde - green grass field and gray rocky mountain during daytime

Rocher de Bellevarde

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer views, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking summit offering 360° alpine panoramas, accessible by cable car, with challenging ski runs in winter.

4.8
(13 reviews)

"The reward upon arrival is worth the climb, with magnificent 360° landscape views."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Summer Cable Car

In summer, hikers can often ride the cable car for free! :ticket:

Summit Stair Safety

Be cautious on the steep summit stairs; railings are open and absent at the very top. :warning:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Summit Views

Panoramic Summit Views

Summit of Rocher de Bellevarde

Experience a breathtaking 360° panorama of the surrounding Alps, including Mont Blanc on clear days.

The 'Face' Run Descent

The 'Face' Run Descent

La Face piste

A challenging ski run down from the summit, known for its steepness. Be prepared for a thigh-burning descent!

Instagram
Le Fornet Area

Le Fornet Area

Far left of the piste map

A quieter, less-traveled area accessible from Tignes, offering excellent skiing and beautiful scenery.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Summer Cable Car Access

In summer, hikers and bikers can often use the cable car for free, making the ascent to Rocher de Bellevarde much easier. Be prepared for a short, steep climb from the cable car station to the summit. Instagram

Summit Views & Safety

The panoramic 360° views from the summit are breathtaking, offering sights of Mont Blanc on clear days. However, the final climb involves steep stairs with open railings, making it potentially dangerous for children and those with a fear of heights. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Winter afternoons
Why
Golden hour sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Une super activité à faire cet été, tu trouveras aussi plein de balade et randonnée à faire dans les environs. INFOS PRATIQUES 💬 : ⬇️ 📍Glacier 3000, Diablerets, canton de Vaud 🅿️ Parking : Parking gratuit 🐶 Chiens : Oui glacier 3000, mais PAS pour les activités (Chiens de traîneau et Alpine Coaster) 🚠 Prix : Les activités suivantes sont incluses dans le billet piéton: Aller-retour en téléph...
@mille.vadrouilles
21.3K likes • 498.6K views

Free Summer Cable Car

In summer, hikers can often ride the cable car for free! :ticket: Instagram

Summit Stair Safety

Be cautious on the steep summit stairs; railings are open and absent at the very top. :warning: Reddit

Au sommet de Bellevarde, la vue est imprenable ! Mais quand il s'agit de redescendre par La Face en fin de journée, on aimerait tous pouvoir se téléporter... 😉 Gare aux cuisses ! • On top of Bellevarde, the view is fabulous! But once we have to go down La Face at the end of the day, we all wish to teleport ourselves... 😉 Take care of your thighs! • #valdisere #bellevarde #teleport #savoie #skireso...
valdisere
1.7K likes • 0 views
📍Val-d’Isère - Bellevarde 🇫🇷 . Hier ein paar Impressionen und Erinnerungen ⛰️☀️🌲⛰️ . Als Wanderer kommt man in den Genuss, dass im Sommer die Seilbahn gratis genutzt werden kann! . #valdisere #bellevarde #rocherdebellevarde #nature #montagne #alpes #hautesavoie #seilbahn #wanderung #rosmarie_meier . . . .
rosmarie_meier
204 likes • 0 views

Challenging Descent

The 'La Face' run is steep! Prepare your legs for the downhill. :muscle: Instagram

Explore Le Fornet

Venture to Le Fornet for quieter slopes and stunning scenery. :mountain: Reddit

13.01.2022 Sunset sur le Mont Blanc, la Grande Motte et la Sana depuis le Rocher de Bellevarde. Faites votre choix ! 😄 @tignesofficiel @valdisere #sunset #montblanc #sana #bellevarde #grandemotte #tignes
yann.allegre
155 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Summer Cable Car

In summer, hikers can often ride the cable car for free! :ticket: Instagram

Summit Stair Safety

Be cautious on the steep summit stairs; railings are open and absent at the very top. :warning: Reddit

Challenging Descent

The 'La Face' run is steep! Prepare your legs for the downhill. :muscle: Instagram

Explore Le Fornet

Venture to Le Fornet for quieter slopes and stunning scenery. :mountain: Reddit

Dog-Friendly Areas

Dogs are allowed at Glacier 3000 but not for specific activities. :dog: TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(13 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the absolutely magnificent 360° panoramic views from Rocher de Bellevarde, calling the reward upon reaching the summit 'breathtaking.' The accessibility via cable car, especially its free summer access for hikers, is highly appreciated. However, the steep final climb with open railings is a significant concern for safety, particularly for families with children and those with a fear of heights.

"We cheated and took the free cable car up to the rock. However, there remains a fairly steep 100 meters to climb. Great reward upon reaching the summit with a magnificent panoramic view."

Eric H

"Magnificent 360° landscape. Small steep climb to climb on foot from the Olympic cable car (free in summer). A fairly steep staircase takes you to the top of the Bellevarde rock. Although the climb is not easy, the reward upon arrival is worth it. Be careful ⚠ however the railings of the stairs are very open and dangerous for children. They are even completely non-existent at the top! So take care as the terrain is particularly slippery on the surrounding area."

David Joly

"A beautiful view of the region, but not for people who are afraid of heights. You can admire the Col de l'Iseran and Mont Blanc in good weather."

Yann Cungs

What People Like

Magnificent panoramic views
Free summer cable car access
Breathtaking summit reward

What People Dislike

Steep summit climb
Open/absent railings
Not for fear of heights

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Rocher de Bellevarde is accessible via cable car from Val d'Isère or Tignes. In summer, the cable car is often free for hikers and bikers, making the ascent easier. Instagram From the cable car station, there's a short but steep climb to the summit. Reddit

While specific parking for the rock itself isn't detailed, the nearby Glacier 3000 area offers free parking. TikTok It's best to check local Val d'Isère or Tignes parking information for the most convenient options.

Yes, the area is popular for hiking and mountain biking. In summer, the cable car can be used for free, allowing easier access to trails and the summit. Instagram

From the cable car station, you'll need to climb about 100 meters on foot. This involves a fairly steep staircase to reach the very top of the Bellevarde rock. Reddit

Yes, you can reach Val d'Isère and Tignes by bus from nearby train stations like Bourg-Saint-Maurice. This is a common way for visitors to access the ski resorts. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

In summer, the cable car to the base of Rocher de Bellevarde is often free for hikers and bikers, so you might not need a ticket for the ascent. Instagram However, access to specific activities at Glacier 3000 may require payment. TikTok

The operating hours for the cable cars and the summit access depend on the season. It's best to check the official Val d'Isère or Tignes tourism websites for current summer and winter operating schedules. Instagram

The rock itself doesn't have an entrance fee, but you'll need to consider the cost of the cable car if it's not free during your visit. The main cost is associated with accessing the area via the lifts. Instagram

For cable car tickets, it's usually possible to purchase them online in advance, especially during peak ski season, to save time. Check the official resort websites for booking options. Reddit

In summer, hikers and bikers often get free cable car access. Instagram Look out for potential multi-day passes or family discounts if you plan on using the lifts extensively. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The view is a magnificent 360° panorama. You can see the Col de l'Iseran and Mont Blanc on clear days. It's a truly rewarding sight after the climb. Reddit

No, it's not recommended for those with a fear of heights. The final climb involves steep stairs with very open and sometimes non-existent railings at the top. Reddit

The main draw is the incredible panoramic view. It's also a starting point for hikes and mountain bike trails. In winter, it's a key point for skiing, with challenging runs like 'La Face'. TikTokInstagram

Information on specific summit facilities is limited, but typically, high-altitude viewpoints may have basic amenities or information boards. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks. Reddit

Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Layers are recommended as mountain weather can change quickly. Bring sun protection, even in cooler months. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The summit itself offers the best 360° views. Look for opportunities to capture the expansive mountain ranges, including Mont Blanc. Sunsets from here can be spectacular. Instagram

Early mornings often provide clearer skies and softer light. Sunsets can be dramatic, offering golden hour hues over the Alps. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating distant peaks like Mont Blanc. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance sky colors. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and safety precautions, especially on the steep summit stairs. Reddit

Drone regulations vary by region and park. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Rocher de Bellevarde with children requires careful planning due to the summit's steep final climb. The open railings and lack of railings at the very top pose a significant safety risk for young ones. Reddit While the cable car ride itself can be fun, parents should be prepared to carry or closely supervise children during the final ascent. Consider if your children are comfortable with heights before attempting the summit. Reddit

Alternative: For a more relaxed family experience, enjoy the views from the cable car station area or explore the gentler walking paths accessible from there. The surrounding Val d'Isère and Tignes areas offer many other family-friendly activities and attractions that might be more suitable. TikTok

⛰️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

Rocher de Bellevarde is a dream destination for hikers. In summer, the free cable car access is a huge plus, allowing you to start your adventures at higher altitudes. Instagram The panoramic views from the summit are a major draw, offering breathtaking vistas of the Alps, including Mont Blanc on clear days. Reddit

Explore the numerous trails that branch out from the summit area, catering to various fitness levels. Whether you're looking for a short scenic walk or a more challenging trek, the alpine landscape provides a stunning backdrop. Remember to wear appropriate hiking gear and carry water and snacks. TikTok

⛷️ Skiers and Snowboarders

For winter sports enthusiasts, Rocher de Bellevarde is a key access point to the vast ski domain of Val d'Isère and Tignes. The infamous 'La Face' run, a steep and challenging descent, starts right from the summit. Instagram If you're an experienced skier or snowboarder looking for an adrenaline rush, this is a must-try. Reddit

Beyond the extreme runs, the area offers a wide range of pistes for all abilities. Don't overlook the Le Fornet sector, known for its quieter slopes and beautiful scenery, often a favorite for those looking to escape the main crowds. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Summit Climb

Reaching the absolute peak of Rocher de Bellevarde involves a final ascent from the cable car station. This section is characterized by a steep climb, often via stairs. While rewarding, it requires a degree of physical fitness and a head for heights. Travelers have noted that the railings on these stairs can be quite open, and at the very top, they may be non-existent. This makes the final approach particularly challenging for those with acrophobia or for families with young children. Reddit

Safety First: Always be aware of your surroundings and the slippery nature of the terrain. Hold onto any available handrails and supervise children closely. The stunning views are the payoff, but safety should be the priority during this final climb. Reddit

Summer Advantage: During the summer months, the cable car access is often free for hikers and bikers, making this climb more accessible. This allows more people to experience the summit's grandeur without the strenuous effort of a full hike from the base. Instagram

Winter Skiing and Snowboarding

Rocher de Bellevarde is a pivotal point in the Val d'Isère and Tignes ski area, offering access to some of its most iconic runs. The famous 'La Face' piste descends directly from the Bellevarde summit, known for its steep gradient and challenging nature. Skiers and snowboarders often describe it as a demanding run that tests your thigh strength. Instagram

Beyond 'La Face', the area provides access to a vast network of pistes catering to various skill levels. For those seeking a slightly less crowded experience, venturing towards Le Fornet, located on the far left of the piste map, is a popular recommendation. This area is often quieter and offers beautiful runs, with many making the trek over from Tignes to enjoy its slopes. Reddit

Seasonal Considerations: While the summit views are a summer highlight, winter transforms Rocher de Bellevarde into a premier ski destination. Ensure you have appropriate ski gear and check avalanche conditions and piste status before heading out. TikTok

Summer Activities and Access

During the summer months, Rocher de Bellevarde transforms into a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers. A significant advantage for visitors is the often free cable car access, which greatly simplifies reaching the higher altitudes. This allows for more time to explore the numerous hiking trails and scenic routes available in the surrounding area. Instagram

The summit itself offers unparalleled panoramic views, making it a prime spot for photography and simply soaking in the alpine scenery. On clear days, you can spot distant landmarks like Mont Blanc, providing a truly memorable experience. Reddit

Beyond the Summit: The area around Rocher de Bellevarde is rich with opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll with stunning vistas or a more challenging mountain bike descent, the summer months offer a fantastic opportunity to explore this beautiful part of the Alps. TikTok

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