La Plagne’s popularity with families might fool some into thinking that challenges for expert skiers are limited here, but those with an appetite for jaw-dropping descents and narrow couloirs know that the Bellecôte is home to some of the best off-piste action around.
Head to the glacier’s north face via the Traversée lift to experience the routes this area is known for and test your stamina against the 2000m descent to Peisy Nancroix. For a more scenic off-piste experience, take the Montchavin/Les Coches track or the tree-lined route from Mont Sant Jacques to Plagne 1800.
Novice off-pisters should head to the top of Dos Rond where a steady blue shadows the track, or try out the route beneath the Roche de Mio chairlift where the slopes are a little more sympathetic to rookie powder hounds.
If you plan on heading to the backcountry in La Plagne, it’s essential you go with an experienced guide who will be able to advise you on the best and safest routes. Avalanches are common in the area, so remember to also pay attention to any warnings before heading out.