In the Tarantaise valley, the town of
Moûtiers is at the heat of the largest skiable area in the world, with resorts such as
Courchevel, Méribel, Les Menuires, Val Thorens and so on scattered in the mountains nearby.
At an altitude of 484 metres,
Moûtiers is deep in the
Alps, and its residents benefit from the clean mountain air and healthy alpine lifestyle. In winter and in summer, sport is always a major part of life in and around
Moûtiers. Hearty traditional Savoy cuisine will give you the energy necessary to get up the mountains or down the slopes.
As soon as you arrive in
Moûtiers you'll be inspired by the serenity of the ancient mountains. The
Pont Saint-Pierre bridge crosses the
Isère river (as in "Val", of course), at the foot of the dense green forested mountains with snowy peaks. The landscape is breathtaking and entirely different depending on the season.
Moûtiers is made up of narrow streets and traditional houses. Visit the town's cathedral, the
Cathedral Saint-Pierre in Moûtiers, and admire the
Palace of the Archbishop Counts, where the counts of Tarentaise once lived in splendour. During the classical
Festival de Tarentaise, the churches of
Moûtiers and the surrounding areas echo with the strains of baroque music.
Moûtiers is an ideal place from which to explore the surrounding ski resorts. Whether skiing in winter or hiking in summer with family of friends,
Courchevel, Méribel, Les Menuires, and Val Thorens are highly respected resorts. Explore the beautiful landscape of the nearby
National Park of La Vanoise.
Moûtiers is not far from the lakes, alpine waterfalls and springs, with spa resorts of Brides-les-Bains and La Léchère a short drive away. Watersports such as canoeing are popular here in this unparalleled alpine setting. For those keen on fishing there are plenty of places to try your luck.
Savoy food is well known for its hearty and restorative quality, and there are many delicious local specialities to try. In one of the many traditional
restaurants in Moûtiers try fondue, tartiflette, raclette,
fricacha de caön (stewed pork), or some of the many local cheeses and cured hams. You're sure to leave fully satisfied, if you can still move, that is. The
Beaufort cheese is the star local cheese, made to a secret recipe by local dairy farmers. Savoy is also know for its wines, protected with the AOC stamp of authenticity are:
Roussette de Savoie, Crépy and Seyssel which will complement your food. You'll also find
Mondeuse, Gamay and
Pinot, both red and rosé. The white wines of Savoy are, fruity, light and dry, with
grand crus from
Abymes, Apremont, Chignin, Chautagne, and
Cruet.
Moûtiers, is a refreshing combination of mountain air, exercise and good food. Enjoy!