12/04/2019
The picturesque resort of Les Menuires, nestled in the Savoie department of the Northern Alps, is a fantastic destination for a mountain getaway. As more travellers embrace electric vehicles, understanding the charging infrastructure is crucial. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information to ensure your EV is powered up and ready for your adventures in Les Menuires, alongside details on how to make the most of your stay with the resort's excellent transportation options.
Les Menuires is conveniently located near the town of Moûtiers, which serves as a primary gateway to the region. The closest train station is Moûtiers Salins Brides-Les-Bains, situated approximately 27 km away. From there, you have several options to reach the resort:
- Coach Services: Alpbus offers a convenient transfer service directly from the Moûtiers station. It's advisable to book your journey in advance.
- Taxi Services: For a more direct and personalised transfer, taxi services are available. You can download a list of local taxi providers to make your arrangements.
- Hired Car: Renting a car in Moûtiers is another option, giving you flexibility once you arrive.
If you are travelling by bus, regular services connect Les Menuires with nearby train stations and airports. Booking your bus journey ahead of time is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
For those travelling by car, Moûtiers is a short 27 km drive from Les Menuires. It's always a good idea to check live traffic reports before you set off. Remember that during winter, from November 1st to March 31st, special equipment for vehicles is compulsory throughout the Savoie region. This includes fitting winter tyres or carrying snow chains.
Les Menuires is committed to sustainable development and encourages eco-friendly travel. For electric vehicle owners, the resort offers accessible charging facilities. You'll find 23 e-vehicle charging terminals conveniently located in the sectors of La Croisette and Les Bruyères. To locate these terminals and manage your payments, you can visit the Freshmile website or utilise their dedicated mobile application. This makes topping up your battery a straightforward process, allowing you to explore the stunning alpine scenery with peace of mind.
Once you've arrived and parked your car (free outdoor car parks are available in every district), you'll find that you won't need it much during your stay. Les Menuires boasts an excellent and free shuttle bus service designed to make getting around the resort and its surroundings incredibly easy and convenient.
Inter-District Service
The inter-district shuttle buses are your key to navigating the various neighbourhoods within Les Menuires. These services connect:
- La Croisette
- Reberty 1850
- Reberty 2000
- Les Airelles
- Les Fontanettes
- Les Bruyères
For districts like Preyerand and Brelin, access is facilitated by the resort's cable car and lift system, offering scenic and efficient travel.
Inter-Village Service
The resort's commitment to connectivity extends beyond its own districts. The inter-village shuttle buses provide easy access to neighbouring resorts and villages within the valley. These services run between the three main resorts in the valley – Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, Les Menuires, and Val Thorens – and also serve the charming villages located along the route, including Praranger, Les Granges, and Saint-Marcel. This makes exploring the wider Three Valleys area a breeze.
Les Menuires is often described as a "safe bet" for ski vacations, and for good reason. It offers guaranteed snow conditions, catering to all budgets and family needs. As the gateway to the world's largest ski area, the Three Valleys, Les Menuires provides access to an astounding 600 km of pistes. Over 85% of these pistes are situated at altitudes exceeding 1,800 metres, ensuring excellent snow cover throughout the season. With a total vertical drop of 50,000 metres and access to iconic peaks like Cime Caron (3,200 m), Saulire (2,700 m), and Mont Vallon (2,952 m), the skiing opportunities are unparalleled.
The resort itself benefits from its high altitude (1800 m) and extensive snow-making facilities (51% of the area is covered by snow guns), guaranteeing snow cover for the entire season. Its south-facing slopes also mean you can enjoy the sun all day long.
Furthermore, Les Menuires is renowned for offering the best value for money within the Three Valleys. You'll find a wide array of accommodation and services to suit every profile and budget. The resort proudly holds the "Famille Plus" label, indicating its exceptional family-friendly facilities. It boasts the largest kindergarten in France and is equipped to welcome babies from just three months old.
For thrill-seekers, Les Menuires doesn't disappoint. Activities abound, from the exhilarating "Speed Mountain" – a 1,000-metre-long toboggan run with numerous twists and turns – to the mini KL (ski jumping), the natural snow toboggan run "Roc'N Bob," and the "Roc'N Bike" fat biking course on snow. If you prefer less frosty pursuits, the Fun Park and the Aqualudic Area offer a wealth of entertainment, featuring paddling pools, slides, ice caves, a swimming pool with massage jets, and submerged benches.
Q1: Where are the EV charging stations located in Les Menuires?
EV charging terminals are primarily located in the La Croisette and Les Bruyères sectors of the resort.
Q2: How can I pay for EV charging?
Payments for EV charging can be made online via the Freshmile website or through their mobile application.
Q3: Is there a free shuttle service in Les Menuires?
Yes, Les Menuires offers a comprehensive free shuttle service that operates both between districts within the resort and between the valley villages, including Saint-Martin-de-Belleville and Val Thorens.
Q4: What is the nearest train station to Les Menuires?
The nearest train station is Moûtiers Salins Brides-Les-Bains, located 27 km from the resort.
Q5: Do I need special equipment for my car in winter?
Yes, from November 1st to March 31st, fitting winter tyres or carrying snow chains is compulsory for all vehicles in the Savoie region, including Les Menuires.
Enjoy your electric-friendly and memorable stay in Les Menuires!
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