Bonneval-sur-Arc
In short
Bonneval-sur-Arc, about 75 km from the campsite (1h30 by road in summer, via the Col de l'Iseran), is one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, on the edge of the Vanoise National Park. In summer, you can go climbing, canyoning and fishing, and visit the hamlets of Tralenta and L'Écot, the Pont de la Lame waterfall and the Col de l'Iseran.
Key takeaways
- The only village in Savoie listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France.
- Climbing, mountaineering and canyoning in summer, with canyoning starting from the hamlet of L'Écot.
- Hamlet of Tralenta: flower-filled lanes and traditional chalets.
- Hamlet of L'Écot: setting of the film Belle and Sebastian.
- Pont de la Lame waterfall, reachable on a hike.
- Col de l'Iseran: 2,764 metres, the highest road pass in the French Alps, closed in winter.
Today's guide takes us to the heart of Bonneval-sur-Arc, a typical Savoyard village on the edge of the Vanoise National Park.
To discover this village, about 75 km from the Tarentaise (1h30 by road in summer, via the Col de l'Iseran), book your stay at Camping Eden de la Vanoise. You can then visit the most beautiful spots, starting with the family-friendly winter sports resort.
Bonneval-sur-Arc: a wild Savoyard landscape
Bonneval-sur-Arc is the only village in Savoie on the list of the Most Beautiful Villages of France. On the edge of the Vanoise National Park, the village resort nestles in an alpine mountain landscape. Although it is above all a winter destination, it is just as appealing in the warm season.
Set off to discover its beautiful stone chalets. Thanks to its proximity to the Vanoise National Park, it is home to many fragile species. In summer, as nature wakes up under a radiant sun, you can admire a multicoloured landscape. It is the ideal time for hiking: streams, mountains and waterfalls await you.
The best summer activities in Bonneval-sur-Arc
Whether you are looking for adventure or peace and quiet, plenty of fun activities await you in Bonneval-sur-Arc this summer.
Climbing, mountaineering, canyoning and fishing
In summer, mountaineering and climbing are still on the menu. Climb the most beautiful peaks surrounding the village. Thrill-seekers can try canyoning, with routes specially prepared for them. The starting point is in the hamlet of L'Écot.
Summer skiing is another activity to enjoy in Bonneval-sur-Arc during the summer holidays. If peace and quiet is what you are after, fishing in the lakes is your best bet.
Magnificent sites to visit in Bonneval-sur-Arc in summer
Whether in the village resort or its surroundings, you can visit plenty of natural and historic sites during your summer holiday.
A stroll through the hamlet of Tralenta
This very welcoming hamlet puts on its summer colours just for you. As you wander through its lanes, you can admire the chalets with their beautiful flower-filled balconies. Every lane in Tralenta has a story to tell.
A stroll through the hamlet of L'Écot
Another hamlet close to the village resort, steeped in history and tradition. If you have seen the film « Belle and Sebastian », you have no doubt already fallen for its mountain scenery.
The Pont de la Lame waterfall
The best way to discover the Pont de la Lame waterfall is on a hike. Let yourself be enchanted by the beauty and clarity of its turquoise water. The sound of the flowing water soothes both ears and soul.
A trip to the Col de l'Iseran
Impossible to visit in winter because of the weather, the Col de l'Iseran welcomes you with open arms in summer. Leaving Bonneval-sur-Arc and taking the road up, you will reach the highest road pass in the French Alps, at an altitude of 2,764 metres.
Sébastien’s tipThe Col de l'Iseran closes with the first snowfall, so check whether it is open before planning your visit late in the season. For canyoning from L'Écot, book several days ahead in July and August: slots go quickly at this popular site.
See on the map