Lanslebourg-Mont-Cenis is part of the Val Cenis ski area, which covers 125 km of pistes. Other highlights to consider when planning your trip include high-altitude hikes, historic forts, an alpine garden and a museum about the history of the pass. To find the right place to stay, decide whether skiing, hiking or a cultural programme will be your main focus.
Skiing in Val Cenis: a seasonal highlight
The Val Cenis ski area includes Lanslebourg and offers 125 km of pistes. The ski season is seasonal. The 125 km refers to the ski area as a whole and gives an indication of its scale as a winter sports destination.
Forts at the pass and in the Val Cenis area
In the wider Val Cenis area, Fort de Malamot is a reminder of the history of border surveillance. It was built in 1889 at an altitude of 2,850 m to monitor the Mont-Cenis Pass and the Italian border. Only traces of the surrounding wall and the ruins of the defensive barracks remain. The fort can be reached on a day hike; access is subject to seasonal mountain conditions. From there, you can enjoy views of Lake Mont-Cenis.
Fort de la Turra was built between 1893 and 1900 to monitor the Mont-Cenis plateau on the French-Italian border. From the Mont-Cenis Pass, it is a hiking destination; snow and weather affect access. Views extend to Lake Mont-Cenis, Italy, Val Cenis-Lanslebourg and Haute Maurienne Vanoise. At Turra, the historic role of border surveillance goes hand in hand with sweeping views of the landscape.
Compare high-altitude hikes
The hike to Fort du Mont-Froid reaches an altitude of 2,822 m and offers views of the Vanoise glaciers and Grande Casse. When comparing the options, note the specific differences between the destinations described: Malamot is presented as a day hike, Turra as a hiking destination from the Mont-Cenis Pass, and Mont-Froid for its altitude and mountain views. Seasonal mountain conditions apply at Malamot, while snow and weather affect access to Turra.
Museum and alpine garden
The Musée de la Pyramide du Mont-Cenis is located at an altitude of 2,100 m and is one of the highest museums in Europe. It explores the history of the Mont-Cenis Pass and local life, including transport, villages and the dam that changed the area. You can visit the museum independently, without a guide. Check current opening hours before your visit.
The Jardin Alpin du Mont-Cenis features more than 100 species of alpine flowers and plants. Alongside its plant collection, the garden offers a themed trail and a range of family activities in summer. If you plan to take part in any of these activities, check the specific dates in advance. In addition to hikes and a museum visit, you can also choose botanical experiences and seasonal family activities.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Oyen, Barberaz, Queige, Mâcot-La-Plagne, Hautecour, Albens, Lescheraines, Viviers-Du-Lac.
For the regional travel overview: Savoie.
