Chilled out L'Aigle
Moving on. The third sector, L’Aigle, is dramatically different to the others. A long and slow chair transports you over terrain untouched by humans but imprinted hither and thither with the tracks of foxes and alpine hares. It’s a great ride in sunny weather, but not recommended if there’s a wind blowing. Consequently, you might find yourself the only occupant of the meandering red Souréou linking with the black Les Rhodos further down. Both are achievable by confident intermediates…in the right conditions.
Most accommodation is on the sunny south-facing side of the valley, centred around ancient streets and alleys, with an obligatory old church and spire. It’s definitely not party-central. think tranquil, relaxed and chilled out. Bars and
restaurants sit shoulder-to-shoulder along what could easily be the sea-front, except its snow. The last few years have seen the development of some swish family-orientated upmarket apartments, each with shops, swimming pool, sauna, and ski hire, close to the slopes.
I stayed in the Le Hameau des Airelles, only 16 steps from my front door to the ski lift. A few more steps down was Le Chalet des Gourmandises, the morning essential stop for fresh, warm croissants. Across the road, Intersport provided top-of-the-range skis and boots.
Love thy Neighbour
Here’s where I reveal Montgènevre’s next door neighbour… Claviere in Italy!
Endless off piste delights await the skier who is lucky enough to discover Mongenevre