This traditional, unspoilt village with a pretty church is a quiet and highly appealing base for those looking for a luxury ski holiday where you can escape the crowds but still enjoy some of the best skiing in the Alps.

St. Martin de Belleville has only been on the popular ski map since the 1980s, when chairlifts were built that linked it to the slopes of Mèribel and Les Menuires. Since then, the village has developed significantly, but in traditional style, with properties built of stone and wood, and it remains small and peaceful.

When to Visit St. Martin de Belleville

St. Martin de Belleville is open from December until the end of April, with access to snow-sure slopes throughout the winter season.

What We Love About St. Martin de Belleville

The rare combination of a quiet, attractive, traditional village and the slam-dunk impact of the magnificent, renowned 3 Valleys ski area where there is enough skiing to keep us happy for years.

Getting to St. Martin de Belleville

Geneva Airport is a 2 hour 30 minute drive and Moutiers train station is 30 mins.

The Skiing in St. Martin de Belleville

A stay in a luxury ski chalet in St. Martin de Belleville gives quick and easy access to the biggest ski area in the world, with 600km of pistes at your disposal in the 3 Valleys. The altitude of the ski area goes right up to 3200m, and there is plenty of excellent varied skiing above 2000m so good snow conditions can nearly always be found somewhere.

All ability levels of skiers are catered for in the 3 Valleys, with lots of red and blue terrain, and off-piste for experts.

For those choosing not to ski, there are several shops, a sports centre, and dog-sledging if you want to try something a little different.

The Best Places To Eat and Drink in St. Martin de Belleville

While the après-ski scene is certainly more vibrant in Mèribel, venture out of your luxury ski chalet and you will find live music at the Pourquoi Pas, best enjoyed slumped into a squashy sofa in front of the roaring fire. The Brewski and The Dahlia are also rather cheerful post-skiing.

And when it comes to eating out, there’s no shortage of places to grab a bite here if staying in a self-catered luxury ski chalet. From pizza at the Petit Creux, to traditional French fare at upmarket Etoile des Neiges, the variety is surprisingly good for such a small resort. For Michelin-star quality it’s easy to head up to the Bouitte in St. Marcel, or if it’s a warm atmosphere and good honest food you’re after, try the Montagnard.

Of course, you’ll be very well catered for in a luxury chalet, with a private chef on hand to craft delicious gourmet dining, but on their night off, there’s nothing better than sampling the local cuisine. Your host can arrange restaurant reservations and, if required, transport to eateries further a-field.