Ice cave
Walk through a two-hundred-metre gallery to reach a magical network of rooms carved twenty metres below the surface of the snow, deep inside the glacier.
Aiguille de Venosc hike
A long walk taking in two scenic lakes and a striking mountain peak
At 2,830m, this rocky pyramid would dominate the view from Les Deux Alpes were it not for its larger neighbour, La Muzelle.
From certain points on the main street it's the highest point you can see, and its sheer sides certainly give it an imposing aspect. The summit offers fantastic views back into Les Deux Alpes.
Starting point: Venosc gondola bottom station.
The most popular route to the summit is via the Col du Vallon, which is not difficult but it does feel exposed. From here an airy ridge leads to the top. Our suggested route follows a loop taking in the Muzelle and Lauvitel lakes as well as the col and the peak. The peak itself tends not to be too busy, but the two lakes can attract the crowds on a hot summer day.
From Les Deux Alpes, you can either take the Venosc gondola or drive to the starting point in Venosc. At the gondola station, cross the main road and follow the signs for the Adventure Park. The track will take you down to a bridge over the River Veneon. Cross this and take the path on the left into the woods. Pass the Adventure Park and stay on the path until you reach a clearing with a bridge to your left. Do not cross this bridge but bear right and stay on the path following signs for Lac de la Muzelle and Refuge de la Muzelle. This takes you up wooded hillsides before climbing a long valley to reach the refuge and lake. Take a moment here to admire the view, and perhaps eat something at the refuge.
Skirt rightwards around the lake until you see a path leading off to the right. This is where you will leave most other hikers behind. Follow this up ever steeper mountainsides until you reach the Col du Vallon. From here, turn right and follow the airy ridgeline to the summit with its jaw-dropping views into the valley and across to Les Deux Alpes.
Retrace your steps to regain the Col du Vallon. The shortest route back from here would be to return by the same route. For our suggested itinerary though, you should turn right to descend on the other side of the col. Go down carefully until you arrive at the northern end of Lac Lauvitel. This is a very popular swimming and picnic spot. The next couple of kilometres are likely to be busy as you mix with the crowds walking to the lake and back.
After the lake, follow the path down to La Danchere. This little village has a gîte and a buvette where you can stop for sustenance. Follow the road out of the village for a few minutes looking for a path on the right. This descends gradually to the river which you can follow back to Venosc.
What to bring
IGN 3336ET map is recommended. You will need lift-passes or pay per person to use the Venosc gondola. Parts of the walk are a long way from shelter so take suitable spare clothing in case the weather changes.
What to see
Sights in Les 2 Alpes
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Behind the scenes at Jandri
Step inside the heart of Les Deux Alpes’ newest lift and discover the engineering behind the Jandri three-S. Every Tuesday from late December, with extra sessions during the February holidays, you can join a guided visit to the intermediate station at two-thousand-six-hundred metres.
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Sunset 3200
Enjoy a magical alpine evening with a sunset aperitif at the restaurant Le 3200. Savour a selection of sweet and savoury treats while admiring the sun setting over the peaks, casting a golden glow across the slopes.
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Funicular visit
The Dôme Express funicular offers a unique way to reach 3,400 m, taking both skiers and pedestrians safely beneath the glacier. Starting from 3,100 m, this remarkable transport allows visitors to access the high-altitude environment of Les 2 Alpes with ease, making the glacier more accessible to everyone.
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Horse drawn sleigh rides
Discover the joys of sleigh rides through an idyllic setting on one of our 3 daily departures: 10am, 2pm and 3.30pm (1 hr 15 minute ride).
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Chasal Lento Museum
The aim of the museum is to preserve and display objects of bygone life in Oisans, displaying the traditions and arts of Mont de Lans.
Where to lunch
Refuge de la Muzelle is a nice place to buy lunch, both lakes are pleasant picnic spots, and there are a buvette and gîte in La Danchere towards the end of the walk.
Restaurants in Venosc
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La Cantine de Tom Restaurant
French restaurant with a number of traditional dishes as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options. Open all day.
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Le Trappeur Restaurant
This restaurant, open all year, serves local fish, Charolais beef or duck, as well as salads, pastas, and vegetables.
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Les Melezes Restaurant and Brasserie
This restaurant, with its view over the Massif de la Muzelle, can accommodate around a hundred diners.
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Le QG Bar & Restaurant
Le QG is a lively bar and restaurant known for its brunch menu, cocktails and laid-back vibe. Tuck into pancakes, pizzas, burgers or tapas while soaking up the buzzy atmosphere. A firm favourite with locals and holiday makers for relaxed meals, après drinks and late-night music.
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Bouchon des Alpes Restaurant
Traditional French cuisine served either on the sunny terrace or the comfortable dining area, for brunch lunch and dinner.
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Smithy's Tavern Restaurant
A lively restaurant and bar with generous portions of grilled meats, steaks and fajitas. The gourmet burgers are packed with flavour and come with all the trimmings. A great spot for dinner and a fun night out in the heart of Les Deux Alpes.
What to do
Things To Do in Venosc
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Ice cave
Walk through a two-hundred-metre gallery to reach a magical network of rooms carved twenty metres below the surface of the snow, deep inside the glacier.
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Palais des Sports
Located in the heart of the resort, the Palais des Sports offers Les 2 Alpes a versatile space for sporting, cultural, and professional events. With 1,200m² of leisure and sports facilities, a large conference room, and an amphitheatre, the centre caters to a wide variety of activities throughout both summer and winter.
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Behind the scenes at Jandri
Step inside the heart of Les Deux Alpes’ newest lift and discover the engineering behind the Jandri three-S. Every Tuesday from late December, with extra sessions during the February holidays, you can join a guided visit to the intermediate station at two-thousand-six-hundred metres.
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Ice skating rink
Right in the heart of Les Deux Alpes, the open-air ice rink offers one of those classic mountain moments you never really grow out of. You’ll find the entrance beside the Saga Centre amusement arcade on Rue des Sagnes, making it an easy stop whether you’re heading out for a stroll, meeting friends or keeping the kids entertained.
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Air 2 Alpes Parapente
Offering paragliding and speed riding you can experience something different in Les 2 Alpes with Air 2 Alpes.
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Le Strike Bowling Alley
For a fun and lively night out in Les Deux Alpes, Le Strike Bowling Alley is the perfect destination. Challenge your friends or family to a few games over a couple of beers, and enjoy some friendly competition in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
