Les sept Laux

Les Sept Laux is a ski resort area spanning Les Adrets and Prapoutel, set in the Belledonne massif in the Isère department, roughly 35 km from Grenoble and 50 km from Chambéry. It isn't a single resort but a group of three linked winter sports stations — Prapoutel, Pipay and Le Pleynet — spread across the communes of Theys, Les Adrets and Le Haut-Bréda. The name refers to a cluster of high-altitude lakes scattered through this stretch of Belledonne, and it captures the character of the place well: quieter and less internationally known than the Three Valleys or Chamonix, but valued by locals from the Rhône-Alpes region for its low-key atmosphere and easy reach from the big cities nearby.

How do you get to Les Sept Laux?

Grenoble is the natural gateway, with a mountain road climbing from the city into the Belledonne massif toward the resort. Travellers coming from further afield usually reach Grenoble first — by TGV from Paris or Lyon, or by air via Lyon or Grenoble-Isère airport — then continue by car or local bus. Chambéry is another approach, following its own winding route into the massif, though the journey takes a bit longer. Since Prapoutel, Pipay and Le Pleynet each have their own road access, it's worth checking in advance exactly which of the three stations you're heading to.

What is there to see in Les Sept Laux?

The Belledonne massif itself is the main draw — rawer and less polished for tourism than some of the more famous French Alpine ranges, with views opening onto the Isère valleys and distant summits. The three stations that make up Les Sept Laux each have their own feel: Prapoutel typically serves as the starting point for families and less experienced skiers, Pipay links terrain at higher elevation, and Le Pleynet forms the resort's third hub, set deeper into the mountains. The name "Sept Laux" — "seven lakes" — points to a group of high-altitude glacial lakes tucked into this part of Belledonne; once the snow clears in summer, they become a natural target for hikers and a scenic lookout over the surrounding ridges.

When is the best time to visit?

Winter is the obvious season, with the resort running as a standard Alpine ski destination from December through spring, depending on snow conditions at this altitude. Outside the ski season, the Belledonne massif — Les Sept Laux included — draws hikers, and the short distance from Grenoble makes it easy to pair a few days in the mountains with time in the city. Because it's less internationally known than the largest French resorts, Les Sept Laux tends to feel calmer and less crowded, which many visitors count as one of its main appeals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Les Sept Laux a single ski resort? No — it's the shared name for three linked stations: Prapoutel, Pipay and Le Pleynet, spread across the communes of Theys, Les Adrets and Le Haut-Bréda in the Belledonne massif.

How far is Les Sept Laux from Grenoble? About 35 km, making Grenoble the most convenient gateway for anyone arriving by train or plane.

Where does the name come from? It refers to a group of seven high-altitude lakes located in this part of the Belledonne massif.

Is Les Sept Laux good for a family trip? Yes — Prapoutel is generally regarded as the most accessible station for families and beginner skiers, though it's worth confirming the specific runs before you travel.