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Beyond the Slopes

Discovering the heart of the French Alps through local eyes and expert advice.

The Best Hikes in Les Belleville: A Local Guide


If you read our recent post on the best summer activities in Les Belleville, you already know that this valley is much more than just a world-class ski destination. When the snow melts, the rugged peaks of St Martin de Belleville, Les Menuires, and Val Thorens transform into a lush hiking paradise.


With over 300km of marked trails ranging from gentle riverside strolls to technical glacial ridges, choosing where to lace up your boots can be overwhelming. As locals who spend our summers exploring these paths, we’ve narrowed down the absolute best hikes in Les Belleville to help you experience the valley like a pro.



1. The Classic: Lac du Lou (Les Menuires)

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate | Duration: 2h 30m (return) | Best for: Families and Photographers


If you only do one hike, make it this one. Lac du Lou is the largest and arguably most beautiful lake in the valley. Tucked away in a natural bowl between Les Menuires and Val Thorens, the water is a stunning shade of blue-green.



  • The Route: Start from the Plan d’Eau des Bruyères in Les Menuires. The path follows the river gently uphill.

  • Local Tip: Once you reach the lake, head to the Refuge du Lac du Lou. They serve incredible local tarts and cold drinks. If you’re feeling brave, the water is crisp but refreshing for a mid-hike dip!


2. The Cultural Loop: Le Moulin de Burdin (St Martin)

Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 1h 30m | Best for: History lovers and shade on a hot day


This trail is perfect for a relaxed morning. It takes you through the heritage of the valley, leading to a beautifully restored grain mill that dates back to the 17th century.


  • The Route: Starting from the village of Saint-Marcel (just above St Martin), the path winds through flower-filled meadows and cool woodland.

  • Local Tip: The mill is often open for visits during the peak summer months. It’s a great spot for a picnic by the stream—the sound of the rushing water makes it the most peaceful spot in the valley.


3. The Panoramic Ridge: Les Pas de Cherferie

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 3h (one way, using lifts) | Best for: 360-degree views


Want the "top of the world" feeling without the 1,000m vertical climb? This hike uses the lift system to get you to the ridgeline that separates the Belleville Valley from Méribel.


  • The Route: Take the St Martin 1 and St Martin 2 gondolas up. From the top, follow the ridge toward the Col de la Fenêtre. You’ll have the Mont Blanc massif on one side and the Belleville peaks on the other.

  • Local Tip: Keep an eye out for paragliders launching from the peaks near the lift station—it’s a spectacular sight to see them catch the thermals.


4. The High Altitude Escape: Circuit des Lacs (Val Thorens)

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 2h 30m | Best for: Escaping the heat and seeing glaciers


When the valley floor gets hot in July, head up to Val Thorens (2,300m). The Circuit des Lacs takes you through a moon-like landscape of rock and ice, passing several high-altitude glacial lakes.


  • The Route: Start from the Sentier des Moutières in Val Thorens. You’ll pass the Lac de Thorens and the Lac des Grenouilles.

  • Local Tip: This is prime marmot territory. If you stay quiet, you’ll hear their distinctive high-pitched whistles and see them sunbathing on the flat rocks.


5. The Pro’s Choice: Le Cochet

Difficulty: Hard | Duration: 4h 30m | Best for: Fit hikers seeking a challenge


Le Cochet is the iconic, pointed peak that overlooks Saint Martin de Belleville. It’s a steep climb, but the reward is the best "aerial" view of the entire valley.


  • The Route: Start from the Parking du Cochet in St Martin. The trail is a steady zig-zag up the mountainside.

  • Local Tip: Start early (around 7:00 AM). Not only will you beat the heat, but you’re also much more likely to spot Chamois (mountain goats) grazing on the steep slopes before the hikers arrive.



Pro Tips for Hiking in Les Belleville


  • The "Passeport Ascensionnel": If you plan on using the lifts to access higher trails, get this pass. It offers huge discounts on lifts and other summer activities.

  • Check the Weather: Mountain weather changes fast. Storms often roll in during the late afternoon in summer, so aim to finish your high-altitude sections by 3:00 PM.

  • Hydration: There are "Bacs" (wooden water troughs) in many villages, but always carry at least 1.5L of water and high-energy snacks.

  • Download the Map: Pick up a free "Plan de Randonnées" from any Tourist Office in St Martin, Les Menuires, or Val Thorens.


Ready to Hit the Trails?


Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll to a mountain restaurant or a grueling summit push, Les Belleville has it all. Hiking here isn't just about the exercise; it’s about the silence, the alpine flowers, and the sheer scale of the Vanoise National Park.


Ready to explore more? Check out our guide to Summer in the Alps for more inspiration on biking, via ferrata, and local dining!

 
 
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