Mountain news / May 18th, 2024

Champagny-en-Vanoise: A village resort that bustles with activities throughout the summer

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Champagny Le Haut - Habitation typique

Champagny-en-Vanoise is one of those mountain village resorts that has retained its soul while offering a wide range of seasonal activities. Summer is one of those special times of year when you can experience the wonders of the Vanoise National Park. Its unspoiled nature and authentic charm make it an unrivalled attraction.

A natural heritage at the summit

 

 

The Vanoise National Park was created in 1963 and is the most ancient National Park in France. This pioneering area of 1,979 km2 sretches between the Maurienne and Tarentaise regions, with its majestic valleys and peaks boasting flora and fauna that are carefully protected as precious jewels of beauty. Boasting a strong Savoyard identity and characteristic mountain areas, the Vanoise National Park, along with the neighbouring Gran Paradiso National Park in Italy, make up the largest protected area in Europe. 


Climbing to summits of over 3,000 metres, between pastures, mountain huts and glaciers, the Summer here is all about authenticity. With a fabulous range of hikes for walkers, climbing routes, two vias ferratas and an accrobranche for climbers, and mountain bike routes for downhillers, you'll find a whole host of activities to boost your vitality. In addition, the villages of Champagny-en-Vanoise, Pralognan la Vanoise and Le Planay have recently been awarded the «Terre d'Alpinisme» (Mountaineering Land) label, and all share the same idea of mountaineering as an «art of living». It is a key feature of the region's identity. 


For those who prefer to relax, the swimming pool, surrounded by green spaces, and the spa area dedicated to your well-being, with sauna, hammam, hot and cold baths and sensory showers, are a 100% ultimate relaxation-out experience. There is a large play area for children, with a playground for toddlers, basketball, tennis and football pitches, and even a pump track for all kinds of slide fans: bikes, skateboards, rollerblades and scooters. The Airolées lake is perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls and catch-and-release fishing.

A village of traditional charm

 

 

Wooden and stone chalets, characteristic narrow streets, chapels and oratories, charming hamlets of houses scattered around the village centre and the baroque village church... Making the most of the charm of the village of Champagny-en-Vanoise means stopping off at one of the small shops that sell the region's flagship products, such as Beaufort and Savoie wines*, strolling along on a sunny terrace with the surrounding massifs in the background, and escaping into the hollow of the Champagny-le-Haut valley, an amazing combination of nature and architecture.

 

Situated at an altitude of 1,500 metres, this area is listed as one of France's « Natural Sites and Monuments » and is remarkable for the majesty of its landscapes and the distinctive character of its villages. In the heart of an exceptional natural setting, the traditional hamlets are listed as part of the architectural heritage and are harmoniously integrated into the magnificent panorama of mountains and ridges, pastures and forests. A picturesque immersion that guarantees a complete change of scenery.

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Champagny-en-Vanoise - Animation Village - Enfant
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Champagny-en-Vanoise - Trail
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Meule de beaufort dans une cave d'affinage
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Champagny-en-Vanoise - Tour de Glace

A lively village resort

 

Far from being a «sleeping beauty», the serenity of the resort is just one of the many facets of Champagny-en-Vanoise, a place that also knows how to put on a festive face, while respecting its values. Sporting events are the highlight of the calendar: trail running, marathon, orienteering and ice climbing championship are just some of the big names, while the public can also enjoy a whole host of activities: film screenings, open-air concerts, unusual guided tours, craft markets and treasure hunts, not forgetting the traditional village festivals, where local customs and traditions are honoured without sacrificing any of this proud identity.

 

Understanding the mountain and its ecosystem, going on theme-based outings to listen to the roaring stag or search for engraved rocks, and discovering emblematic local products are just some of the bonuses to be experienced and shared during a holiday worthy of the name. From crozet gratin and cured meats to blueberry tarts and home-made rissoles, Savoyard delicacies are universally acclaimed. Even more so when it comes to cheese.

 

Here, it's Beaufort that wins the prize. A Protected Designation of Origin, Beaufort is one of those exceptional Savoyard products that taste even better when savoured on the spot. And that's even truer at the peak of the summer season. Made in the mountain pastures, at an altitude of more than 1,500 metres, where the cows graze to their heart's content, all the flowery, fruity flavour of fresh herbs is brought out in a piece of cheese to be savoured without moderation. Other specialities include Raclette and Emmental cheeses, and Tomme de Savoie, to complete the perfect cheese tasting experience.  
 

 

It's in the heart of this idyllic setting that MGM Constructeur is building its new residence. Chalet Naya is an elegant and intimate residence with 9 flats offering top-of-the-range facilities. The architecture is based on traditional Savoyard chalets, with stone foundations, wood-clad facades and gable roofs to create flats ranging from 2 to 4 bedrooms, offering generous living spaces and meticulous attention to detail. An investment opportunity in the mountains that's well worth seizing.

 

*Excessive alcohol consumption can damage your health. Drink in moderation.

Discover Chalet Naya in Champagny-en-Vanoise