Saint-Martin-de-Belleville

National GeographicSep 9, 2026

This Tiny French Village is Surrounded by the World’s Largest Interconnected Ski Area

The once-sleepy little village of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville was never intended to be a ski resort. Today it’s one of the most luxurious in the vast Les Trois Vallées ski region – but also one of the ...

17 things in this story

Combe de la SaulireTrailPopular red run in Les Trois Vallées
École du Ski FrançaisPlaceFrench Ski School offering guides
Maison du TourismeMuseumMuseum housed in converted farmhouse
Les MenuiresSightSki area further up the valley
CourchevelSightNotoriously expensive ski resort
Moulin du BurdinSightOne of nine flour mills along the river
Doron de BellevillePlaceRiver running through the valley
La Folie DouceRestaurantBar-restaurant with DJs and dancers
Le CorbeleysRestaurantSlopeside restaurant in old chalet d'alpage
quiche de Mémé NiniRestaurantGrandmother's quiche served at Le Corbeleys
Picon bièreRestaurantBeer with bitter orange liqueur
Val ThorensSightOne of Europe's highest ski resorts
Cime CaronSightOne of the ski area's highest points
BouchetTrailRed piste with fresh powder pockets
Combe RosaëlTrailSteep black piste with moguls
BiolleyTrailGently undulating run back to village
Les Trois ValléesHotel

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