Within the huge Three Valleys – the largest ski resort in Europe – St Martin has retained its’ original village charm and that sets it apart from its larger, busier neighbours. Combining a blend of rural simplicity, quality and authenticity, this village is not to be missed.

A new St Martin express lift opened in December 2015 following a 12 million Euros investment. Winter 2016 sees continuing improvement in the ski area with new state of the art efficient ‘low pressure’ snow cannons to improve the snow coverage of the lower piste areas allowing for effortless skiing back to the village from 10th December to end of April. 

The world renowned ‘Jerusalem’ piste will now include an optional blue piste route inviting beginner and intermediate skiers to experience this legendary (Worlds’ Top Ten) piste. Continued investment has allowed St Martin to lead the field for all level skiers demanding space, variety and challenge. 

The additional preservation of the areas’ natural beauty provides off-piste opportunities for the powder thrill seekers and ski tourers. And for those embarking on their first skiing experience, the new beginners area in the village opened December 2016, with 2 new moving carpets and gentle nursery slope.

The village oasis of St Martin offers outstanding fine dining possibilities ranging from La Bouitte, recently awarded an exceptional third Michelin star; to the Ferme Auberge chantacoucou offering rustic home produced fare. It almost feels like a wonderful culinary secret that needs to be kept and whispered about amongst the select few in the know, and St Martin definitely punches above its’ weight in this respect. It comes as no surprise that the resort won the ‘Gastronomic Resort of the Year’ at this years ‘Worlds Snow Awards’.

In terms of accommodation there can be no finer choice than the beautifully renovated and luxurious ski chalet, The Ecurie chalet, run by The Alpine Club. This latest addition to their collection of luxury boutique chalets where the fine dining is said to seriously compete with the Michelin star counterparts, was short listed for the ‘Best New Ski Chalet’ category in the 2016 Worlds Ski Awards. This award is given by tourism professionals as well as clients and celebrates excellence in wintersports tourism. 

The Ecurie is an outstanding example of the restoration of an ancient barn perfectly blended with amazing design flair and the luxurious comfort of the new. Combine that with Michelin star/AA rosette restaurant experienced chefs creating exquisite menus and it comes as no surprise that former guest Marcus Wareing (himself of Michelin star celebrity)  says “The food cooked and presented exceeded all expectations. Helen and the rest of the team looked after us brilliantly throughout our stay, nothing was too much trouble”.

Menus can be tailored to individual needs and The Alpine Club can offer gluten free, dairy and sugar free options. The culinary journey the chefs take you on will absolutely surpass all expectations and makes this the accommodation not to be missed.

For the non skier or those in need of pampering there is a newly renovated spa at La Bouitte. The La Bela Vya spa now offers an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and sensory experience shower; as well as original treatments created by La Bouitte to reflect the natural benefits of the region : ‘the Solant’ Alpine hay-infused steam bath, and the ‘Bain de Marie’ encorporating milk and honey. Proud owners of La Bouitte, Rene and Maxime Meilleur, have continued to re-invest in their business again this winter and now offer extended and enhanced reception, lounge and restaurant areas as well as a mountainside-facing terrace.  

There are many reasons to choose St Martin de Belleville as your ski holiday destination. A love of nature and all that it provides can be a strong influence in helping to find the perfect resort. The need for authentic mountain flavours as typified by La Trantsa farm who produce Tomme cheese and ewe’s milk yogurts in the traditional way they have always done reflects the agricultural heritage of the valley. 

Tourists are welcomed to enjoy tastings following a hike through the heart of nature, and this is the kind of small detail that sets the background for this mountain resort that has stayed true to its’ origins whilst embracing all the benefits of investment in the development of its’ future.