Christmas and New Year 2026/2027 in the Three Valleys
Updated: May 5
There’s something unmistakably magical about spending Christmas or New Year in the Alps. The villages glow with lights, the snow feels crisp and fresh, and the whole valley settles into a festive rhythm that blends tradition with mountain energy. After more than a decade living here, it’s still one of my favourite times of year — a perfect mix of skiing, celebration, and slow, cosy evenings.
If you’re considering Christmas ski holidays in the Three Valleys, this guide brings together everything you need to know: real events, trusted recommendations, and insider tips from across the Les Belleville Valley, including Saint‑Martin‑de‑Belleville, Les Menuires, and Val Thorens.
A Magical Christmas in Les Belleville
Throughout December, the villages across Les Belleville and the wider Three Valleys take on a festive feel. Each village brings its own character to Christmas.
While names like Courchevel and Méribel often take the spotlight, the Belleville Valley—home to Saint-Martin-de-Belleville and Les Menuires—is where seasoned skiers choose to stay.
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville feels the most traditional — stone chalets, a working church, and a quieter, more local atmosphere. It’s ideal for families or those looking for something understated.
Across the valley, festive events build throughout the week. Rather than just one celebration, the entire area becomes a stage for mountain traditions. You can expect a rolling programme of events that move between the resort centres, ensuring there is always something happening nearby.
Typical Festive Highlights Include:
The Arrival of Père Noël: A firm favourite with families (my children included). Santa often makes a grand entrance, arriving by dog sled, horse-drawn carriage, or even skiing down the mountain to meet the children.
Village Festivals & Markets: Small, charming Christmas markets spring up in the village squares, offering local Savoyard honey, handmade crafts, and "vin chaud" (mulled wine) for the adults.
Spectacular Torchlit Descents: A true Alpine tradition where hundreds of ski instructors descend the slopes at dusk with glowing torches, creating a ribbon of light against the dark mountain backdrop.
Carol Services & Concerts: From traditional services in the historic Saint Martin church to open-air brass bands and live choral performances in the squares.
Street Entertainment: You’ll often find ice-sculpting demonstrations, fire-eaters, and parades of "illuminated characters" wandering through the resort streets.
Festive Gastronomy: Special "Réveillon" (Christmas Eve) menus in the mountain restaurants, featuring local specialities like truffles, oysters, and Beaufort cheese.
New Year’s Eve at Altitude
Across the Three Valleys, celebrations range from relaxed dinners to lively parties, depending on where you choose to be.
To see in the New Year, Saint-Martin-de-Belleville will burst into life with concerts in the square, a torchlight descent and a firework display. There’s also free hot chocolate and mulled wine, served in a warm and festive atmosphere. Fireworks take place across the resorts.
If you want to do something a little different, some popular spots include:
Jack’s (Les Menuires and Méribel): DJs, a dance floor, and great fun. Expect to move all night long!
La Bouitte (Saint Martin): A Michelin-starred experience for a special luxury New Year’s Eve.
Lodji (Saint Martin): Beautiful hotel with music, mountain views and a social atmosphere.
La Folie Douce (Val Thorens): For a high-energy celebration that starts on the slopes.
Skiing Over the Festive Period
Christmas and New Year ski holidays in the Three Valleys ensure strong snow coverage, particularly in Val Thorens and the higher areas of Méribel and Courchevel. For guests staying in Les Belleville, it’s easy to access:
Quiet early-morning runs before the lifts get busy
Long cruising pistes connecting Méribel and Courchevel
High-altitude skiing in Val Thorens for the most consistent snow
Runs like Jerusalem, Combe de Vallon and Moraine are all at their best during this period.
Festive Activities Beyond Skiing
Even during a ski-focused week, there’s plenty to experience off the slopes. These moments can even become the most memorable part of a festive stay.
A few favourite winter activities are:
Cosmojet Toboggan Run (Val Thorens) – a 6km descent through the mountains
Winter Rail Toboggan (Les Menuires) – a fun alpine coaster
Snowshoeing in the forests around Les Belleville
Heritage walks through Saint-Martin village
Ice skating in Val Thorens, Courchevel or Méribel
Festive Dining & Mountain Restaurants
Food is a big part of Christmas and New Year in the Alps. Restaurants book up quickly over the festive period, so it’s always worth planning ahead.
Some trusted favourites include:
Chez Pépé Nicolas (Val Thorens): A beautiful farm-to-table setting between Les Menuires and Val Thorens.
Le Corbeleys (Saint Martin): Traditional Savoyard dishes and a relaxed atmosphere.
Le Montagnard (Saint Martin): Family-run village restaurant known for warm ambiance and Alpine charm
Brasserie des Belleville (Les Menuires): A family favourite with traditional, savoyard cuisine and mountain views
Why Book a Chalet for Christmas or New Year
For many guests, a chalet is what makes the experience. It creates space to celebrate properly, whether that’s Christmas dinner with family, or bringing in the new year with friends after a day on the slopes.
These weeks are also the most in-demand of the season, particularly for Three Valleys Christmas chalets, so booking early is key.
At Snow&Co, we can help organise everything around your stay — from the chalet itself to ski passes, lessons and restaurant bookings — so you can simply enjoy the time in the mountains.
Plan Your Christmas & New Year Stay
Christmas and New Year are among the most sought-after weeks in the Alps, and for good reason.
If you’re thinking ahead to 2026/2027, now is the time to start planning.
From finding the right chalet to organising your time in the valley, Snow&Co can help you create a seamless festive stay in the Three Valleys.
About the Author
Emma is the Founder of Snow&Co. She moved to the Three Valleys from the UK over ten years ago and immersed herself in the local community. She has done it all – managed ski reps, worked in local bars, curated tours, and cleaned chalets.
Following years of hands-on experience in chalet management and hospitality in the Alps, Snow&Co was created with a more personal, dependable approach built on local presence and attention to detail.
FAQs
When should I book a Christmas ski holiday in the Three Valleys?
Ideally 6 months or more in advance, as the best chalets are reserved early. However, you can reach out to Snow&Co at any time and we will do our best to find you the perfect Christmas stay.
Is the Three Valleys good for New Year celebrations?
Yes. From relaxed dinners in Saint-Martin to lively parties in Val Thorens, there’s something for every style.
Will there be snow at Christmas?
Yes, particularly in higher resorts like Val Thorens, where altitude ensures reliable early-season conditions.
Are restaurants open on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve?
Yes, most restaurants offer special menus, but booking well in advance is essential.
