Saint-Martin-de-Belleville in summer: things to do and how to make the most of the village
At an altitude of 1,450 metres, Saint-Martin-de-Belleville combines the charm of a Savoyard village with Baroque heritage, Alpine pastures, hiking and outdoor activities at the heart of the Belleville Valley and Les 3 Vallées. In summer, Saint-Martin-de-Belleville is an intimate mountain village surrounded by Alpine pastures and hamlets. Hiking, mountain biking, heritage attractions, visits to mountain farms, dog-assisted hiking and events set the pace for the season. The local ski lifts operate from 4 July to 28 August 2026, providing quick and easy access to higher altitudes.
ACTIVITIES: WHAT TO DO IN SAINT-MARTIN-DE-BELLEVILLE IN SUMMER?
The village is the starting point for a wide variety of activities, from heritage walks to more challenging hikes. Some activities commonly associated with Saint-Martin are actually located in the neighbouring Les Menuires area. This is clearly indicated below to avoid any confusion.
| Activity | Short description | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking | Family-friendly circular walks, trails to the hamlets, mountain routes and viewpoints | All levels |
| Summer tobogganing & all-terrain scooters |
Toboggan rides on rails and all-terrain scooter descents for family thrills... A 1,000-metre toboggan run on rails in Les Menuires (15 minutes by car) |
From age 5 when accompanied; minimum height 1.10m |
| Via ferrata | Adventure routes across rock faces with views over the valley | Adults / teenagers |
| MTB / E-MTB | Waymarked routes, guided rides and ski lift access depending on the area | Sporty visitors |
| High-altitude lakes | Walks to mountain lakes, including Lac du Lou, for hiking, picnicking or enjoying a refreshing break. | Families / walkers |
| Heritage & museum | Discover the village, its Baroque church and the Saint-Martin-de-Belleville Museum | All ages |
| Children’s workshops & dog-assisted hiking | Nature discovery workshops and guided hikes with dogs | Children / families |
| Children’s activities | Activities that are easy to fit into a family day: games, mountain adventures, tobogganing and experiences designed for younger visitors. | Families |
HIKING IN SAINT-MARTIN-DE-BELLEVILLE IN SUMMER: UNMISSABLE ROUTES
From the village of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, the trails gradually climb through forests, traditional hamlets and the valley’s Alpine pastures. Before setting off, choose a route suited to your group, taking into account its duration, elevation gain and level of difficulty. Hiking maps are available from the Tourist Office to help you plan your walk.
| Route name | Level | Duration | Elevation gain/loss | Starting point | Suitable for children |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Circuit des Demoiselles Coiffées | Very easy (3.8km) | 3 hrs | +233m / -233m | Villarenger hamlet | Yes |
| Lac du Lou in summer | Easy (5.2km) | 2 hrs | +292m / -292m | Plan de l’Eau des Bruyères | Yes, for children who are confident walkers |
| Pas de Cherferie | Difficult (11km) | 5 hrs | +758m / -758m | Saint-Marcel hamlet | No |
| Les Monts du Fût | Very difficult (12km) | 5 hrs 30 mins | +844m / -844m | La Sauce | No |
Bring suitable footwear, plenty of water and warm clothing, even in summer. For high-altitude walks, check the weather forecast and take an IGN map with you.
FARMS AND ALPINE PASTURES IN SAINT-MARTIN IN SUMMER
In Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, summer is also an opportunity to discover life on the farms and Alpine pastures. Farmers and producers share their expertise in livestock farming, cheesemaking and beekeeping.
Experiences to discover include:
visiting farms and meeting the animals;
learning about milking and the work of livestock farmers;
cheesemaking and tastings, including Beaufort d’Alpage cheese;
visiting the honey farm in Saint-Marcel and discovering Savoie black bees.
At Alpage des Combes, you can learn how Beaufort d’Alpage cheese is made, while Chez Pépé Nicolas offers an immersive introduction to life on an Alpine pasture, with animals, goat milking and farm produce.
It is a simple, hands-on way to gain a better understanding of the farming traditions that sustain the valley, particularly for families.
VIA FERRATA, SUMMER TOBOGGANING AND ALL-TERRAIN SCOOTERS: THRILLS IN SAINT-MARTIN THIS SUMMER
For an extra dose of adventure during your stay, the Belleville Valley offers a range of activities, including via ferrata, summer tobogganing and all-terrain scooters.
| Activity | Age / requirements | Summer 2026 price | Times / dates | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Via ferrata | From age 10 and a minimum height of 1.40m. Two routes can be completed without a guide: Levassaix for beginners and Cochet for more experienced participants. | From €40 for a guided outing | Times vary depending on the provider and weather conditions | Recommended for guided outings |
| La Mine summer toboggan run | From age 5 and 1.10m when accompanied by an adult. From age 10 and 1.40m to ride alone | €9 per ride. 5 rides: €39 | Every day from 10am to 12.45pm and 1.30pm to 7pm, from 4 July to 28 August 2026 | Recommended |
| Electric all-terrain scooter | Requirements vary depending on the provider | €65 per half-day | Available to hire in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville from 15 June to 15 September 2026 | Booking required |
Head for the heights
The valley has two via ferrata routes: Levassaix, which is ideal for beginners, and the more challenging Cochet. They can be completed independently or with a professional guide.
Thrills for all the family
In Les Bruyères (Les Menuires), the 1,000-metre La Mine summer toboggan run is open to children from age 5 when accompanied by an adult. In Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, electric all-terrain scooters are available by reservation from 15 June to 15 September 2026.
Heritage
A Savoyard village to explore on foot
Housed in a former farmhouse, the Saint-Martin-de-Belleville Museum traces the development of the Belleville Valley, from Alpine farming to the growth of its resorts.
Self-guided heritage trails also offer the opportunity to explore Saint-Martin and Villarenger. Nearby, the Notre-Dame-de-la-Vie Sanctuary is one of the valley’s major Baroque landmarks.
OPENING OF LES 3 VALLÉES SKI LIFTS FOR THE SUMMER 2026 SEASON
Open from Saturday 4 July to Friday 28 August
COURCHEVEL VALLEY
Ski lifts open 7 days a week from 04/07 to 30/08
Saulire cable car: 9:30am – 4:30pm
Verdons gondola: 9:30am – 4:40pm
Praz gondola: 9:30am – 4:45pm
Chenus gondola: 9.30am – 4.40pm
Forêt chairlift: 9.30am – 12.30pm / 1.30pm – 4.45pm
MÉRIBEL VALLEY
Ski lifts open 7 days a week from 04/07 to 29/08, except Pas du Lac* (see note below)
Tougnète 1 gondola: 9:30am – 4:30pm
Tougnète 2 chairlift: 9:30am – 4:30pm
Pas du Lac 1 & 2 gondola: 9:30am – 4:30pm *(closed on Saturdays)
BRIDES-LES-BAINS
Ski lifts open 2 days a week from 05/07 to 24/08
Olympe gondola: 9:30am - 4:30pm (open Saturdays and Sundays only)
LES MENUIRES and SAINT-MARTIN-DE-BELLEVILLE
Ski lifts open 7 days a week from 04/07 to 28/08, except the Pointe de la Masse gondola, closed from Thursday to Saturday inclusive
Saint Martin 1 gondola: 9:30am - 12:45pm / 1:30pm - 4:30pm
Saint Martin Express chairlift: 9:30am - 12:45pm / 1:30pm - 4:30pm
Roc 1 gondola: 9:30am - 12:45pm / 1:30pm - 4:30pm
Pointe de la Masse gondola: 9:30am - 12:45pm / 1:30pm - 4:30pm
VAL THORENS
Ski lifts open from 04/07 to 28/08
Caron gondola: 9:30am - 4:25pm
Caron cable car: 9:45am - 4:15pm
Deux Lacs gondola: 9:15am - 4:30pm
Castor & Pollux magic carpet: 9:15am - 4:30pm
ORELLE
Ski lifts open 7 days a week from 04/07 to 30/08
Orelle gondola: 9:30am - 4:30pm (last departure Plan Bouchet - Orelle: 4:30pm; last departure Orelle - Val Thorens: 3:30pm)
Orelle-Caron gondola: 9:45am - 4:15pm (last departure Plan Bouchet - Val Thorens: 4:00pm; last departure Cime Caron - Orelle: 4:15pm)
*No link between Orelle and Val Thorens on 29 and 30 August
SUMMER WEATHER IN SAINT-MARTIN-DE-BELLEVILLE: WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT?
At an altitude of 1,800 metres, Saint-Martin-de-Belleville has a true mountain climate throughout July and August. Days can be mild, but mornings, evenings and high-altitude outings remain cool. The weather can change quickly, particularly near the summits, so it is best to choose when to visit according to your planned activities and always carry an extra warm layer.
| Period | Average temperature | Sunshine | Chance of rain | Our recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| July |
Around 15°C |
Excellent | Moderate | Activities are open, with entertainment and long days to enjoy in the mountains. |
| August | Around 14°C | Excellent | Moderate | An ideal time for families and outdoor adventures, with activities open throughout the month. |
Source: infoclimat.fr (1991–2020)
Pack a jacket, even in July: mornings, evenings and mountain summits cool down quickly at altitude.
EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
SAINT-MARTIN-DE-BELLEVILLE SUMMER 2026 EVENTS CALENDAR
The day begins with the Notre-Dame-de-la-Vie pilgrimage, followed by Mass in the chapel.
In the afternoon, the village comes alive with entertainment, shows and concerts. The festivities continue into the evening with a meal, bar, concert and fireworks display.
SAINT-MARTIN-DE-BELLEVILLE SUMMER 2026 CALENDAR: EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Throughout the summer, Saint-Martin-de-Belleville and the Belleville Valley host a range of sporting, festive and cultural events. Discover the key dates not to be missed during your stay.
| Date | Event | Location | Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 June 2026 | Alpine Pasture Ascent at Chez Pépé Nicolas | Chez Pépé Nicolas | To be confirmed |
| 19 July 2026 | Belleville Enduro Kid MTB Challenge | Belleville Valley | Participant registration required |
| 24 and 25 July 2026 | Mousse au Sommet | Saint-Martin-de-Belleville | To be confirmed |
| 30 July to 2 August 2026 | Grand Raid KIPRUN 3 Vallées | Les 3 Vallées | Entry fee for participants |
Programme updated in June 2026 and subject to change. Please check the dates, times and access conditions before your visit.
PLAN YOUR STAY
SAINT-MARTIN-DE-BELLEVILLE IN SUMMER
In summer, free shuttle buses connect Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, Les Menuires and Val Thorens. They are also equipped with trailers for carrying bikes.
Before your stay, remember to check the essential information on travelling to Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, getting around, car parks, accommodation, bringing pets, the Saint-Martin-de-Belleville Tourist Office and the Saint-Martin-de-Belleville resort map.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR YOUR SUMMER IN SAINT-MARTIN-DE-BELLEVILLE
To plan your summer stay in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, find all the essential information on travelling from Moûtiers, getting around the Belleville Valley using the free shuttle buses, car parks, the Tourist Office and useful maps to help you make the most of your stay.
| Topic | Information | Key point |
|---|---|---|
| Car | Around 30 minutes by car from Moûtiers | Free parking in the village, with blue-zone parking near the shops |
| Train | Moûtiers – Salins – Brides-les-Bains railway station | Continue to Saint-Martin-de-Belleville by bus, taxi or hire car |
| Free shuttle buses | Summer shuttle buses between Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, Les Menuires and Val Thorens | They run daily and are equipped with bike trailers |
| Village map | The village map is available online among Saint-Martin-de-Belleville’s official documents | Hiking, mountain biking and summer activity maps are also available |
| Visitor information | Saint-Martin-de-Belleville Tourist Office, 54 Rue du Clocher | Practical information, activities, events, shops and services |
| Accommodation | A range of accommodation is available in and around Saint-Martin-de-Belleville | Check availability and opening dates for the summer season |
| Pets | Check the rules before setting off, based on your route and the natural areas you will cross | Some mountain trails pass through areas occupied by livestock and guardian dogs |
Check the shuttle bus timetables and Tourist Office opening hours for the dates of your stay.
ACCOMMODATION IN SAINT-MARTIN-DE-BELLEVILLE IN SUMMER: WHERE TO STAY
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville offers a range of places to stay in the village and its hamlets during the summer.
Apartments, hotels or holiday residences: browse the accommodation available for your dates and choose the option that best suits your stay.
| Accommodation type | Price range | Booking link |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment | €–€€ | View apartments |
| Chalet | €€–€€€ | View chalets |
| Hotel | €–€€€ | View hotels |
| Holiday residence | €€–€€€ | View residences |
- Prices vary depending on the dates, length of stay and accommodation selected.
- Check availability online to compare the accommodation available for your stay.
WHERE TO EAT IN SAINT-MARTIN-DE-BELLEVILLE IN SUMMER
In Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, summer dining ranges from restaurants in the village to establishments higher up the mountain. Savoyard cuisine, sunny terraces and fine-dining restaurants offer plenty of variety throughout your stay.
| Type of experience | Restaurant | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Village restaurant | La Voûte | Located at the heart of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, this is a convenient choice for lunch or dinner in the village. | 537 Rue Saint-François |
| Mountain restaurant | La Loy | Set above Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, this restaurant is an ideal place to discover during a day in the mountains. | Piste du Biolley |
| Savoyard flavours | Le Montagnard | A village restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious break over traditional mountain cuisine. | 35 Rue des Places |
| Fine dining | René et Maxime Meilleur (La Bouitte) | A fine-dining restaurant in Saint-Marcel, open during the summer season. | Saint-Marcel hamlet |
Opening days and times may vary throughout the summer. Remember to check directly with each establishment before your visit.
GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING SAINT-MARTIN-DE-BELLEVILLE IN SUMMER
A few useful tips will help you plan your stay in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville and make the most of the walking trails, ski lifts and village heritage.
- Depending on the option you choose, the Pass Ascensionnel gives you access to ski lifts, activities and a range of facilities across the Vallée des Belleville during your stay.
- Saint-Martin-de-Belleville has retained its authentic mountain village character, with traditional Savoyard architecture, narrow streets and a particularly rich Baroque religious heritage.
- Bring a good pair of walking boots to explore the trails and reach the Alpine pastures surrounding the village.
- There are two via ferrata routes in the Vallée des Belleville: Le Levassaix for beginners and Le Cochet for more experienced climbers. Guided outings are also available.
- From 4 July to 28 August 2026, the Saint-Martin-de-Belleville ski lifts allow walkers and mountain bikers to gain altitude and access routes across the Vallée des Belleville and Les 3 Vallées.
- During your stay, discover the Saint-Martin-de-Belleville Museum and the Notre-Dame-de-la-Vie sanctuary, two of the area’s leading heritage attractions.
SAINT-MARTIN-DE-BELLEVILLE IN SUMMER AT A GLANCE
Summer in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville offers the perfect balance of heritage, village life and mountain activities. Hiking, via ferrata, farms and Alpine pastures, the museum, the Notre-Dame-de-la-Vie sanctuary and the ski lifts provide plenty of variety throughout your stay. It is an ideal destination for families and anyone looking to explore the Vallée des Belleville from an authentic village setting, close to Les Menuires.
To make even more of your stay, discover what’s new this summer in Les 3 Vallées and the season’s unmissable highlights.