La Plagne explained: 11 Villages, one resort

La Plagne is one of the most popular ski destinations in the French Alps, but calling it a “resort” is a bit misleading.

In reality, La Plagne is a collection of 11 villages scattered across a huge ski area. Each has its own altitude, layout, style and strengths. Some sit high in the alpine, others hug forested slopes. Some buzz with après-ski, others stay quiet after dark.

For first-time visitors, this layout can feel overwhelming. But once you understand the basics — and match the right village to your travel style — it all starts to make sense.

This guide breaks it down simply:

• Which village suits which type of traveller

• How to reach your destination stress-free from Geneva Airport

• And the key things to get right before you arrive

Let’s get started.

A Quick Intro to the Villages of La Plagne

La Plagne isn’t one place — it’s 11 unique villages, spread across plateaus, valleys, and ridges from 1,200 m to over 2,000 m. Each has its own feel, convenience level, and terrain access.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the key ones:

Belle Plagne

High-altitude, modern, and ski-in/ski-out. Great for families and those who want easy access to the slopes with a purpose-built alpine charm.

Plagne Centre

The beating heart of La Plagne. Centrally located, bustling, and packed with shops, bars, and direct lift access. Expect convenience over character.

Plagne 1800

A quieter, more traditional village surrounded by trees. Ideal for families, groups, and those who prefer a relaxed atmosphere after skiing.

Plagne Soleil & Plagne Villages

Compact and sunny with excellent slope access. Smaller accommodation options and a laid-back vibe. Great for intermediates and beginners.

Aime-La-Plagne

Perched above Plagne Centre, this is one of the highest points. Stunning views, fewer crowds, and very direct access to skiing.

Bellecôte

A functional, ski-through village with lift connections in all directions. Busy and practical, with family-friendly services and budget accommodation.

Montchavin & Les Coches

Lower-altitude villages with a charming, authentic alpine feel. Connected to the main area by lifts, great for those seeking peace and beautiful scenery.

Champagny-en-Vanoise

A scenic gateway village on the southern flank of the resort. Perfect for those who want a mix of skiing and authentic Savoyard village life.

Pro tip: Most of these villages are lift-linked, but some are better connected than others, especially if you’re travelling with kids or gear. Getting the right base can make your trip smoother and a lot more enjoyable.

Image from: Unsplash

Choosing the Right Village for Your Trip Style

With 11 villages to choose from, La Plagne has something for every kind of skier — but picking the wrong base can mean long walks in ski boots or après-ski that ends before it starts.

Here’s how to match your La Plagne village to your travel vibe:

Travelling with Kids?

Go for Bellecôte or Plagne 1800

• Easy ski school access
• Gentle slopes nearby
• Family-sized apartments and chalets
• Supermarkets and rental shops within walking distance
  

First Time on Skis or Just Getting Back Into It?

Check out Plagne Soleil or Plagne Villages

• Quiet, beginner-friendly areas
• Fast access to mellow blue and green runs
• Smaller scale = less walking, more skiing
  

Want Convenience and Après-Ski?

Plagne Centre is your go-to

• Best nightlife options in La Plagne
• Bars, restaurants, and shops all in one place
• Central lift access to most of the ski area
• Can feel busy and built-up — but everything’s on your doorstep
  

Looking for Peace, Scenery, or Something Different?

Head to Champagny-en-Vanoise or Montchavin

• More traditional, village-like feel
• Forested slopes and local charm
• Slightly more effort to reach, but worth it for the atmosphere
  

Choosing the right base means your mornings start smoothly, your evenings end happily — and your group doesn’t split up every time someone wants a break.

Geneva to La Plagne: Your Transfer Options (And What Works Best for Each Village)

La Plagne may feel remote and peaceful once you arrive — but getting there from Geneva Airport takes some planning, especially when you’re traveling with ski gear, tired kids, or a tight schedule.

Here are your main transfer options, and what works best depending on which La Plagne village you’ve booked:

Private Transfers: The Easiest Door-to-Door Option

A private transfer from Geneva Airport to La Plagne is the most stress-free way to travel — especially if you’re staying in a smaller village or arriving during winter weather.

• Direct drop-off at your exact accommodation
• Luggage and ski gear handled with care
• No waiting for other passengers or stops along the way
• Ideal for families, groups, and late-night arrivals
• Can reach any La Plagne village, including Montchavin, Champagny-en-Vanoise or Bellecôte
  

Typical journey time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on weather and road conditions.

Shared Shuttles: Lower Cost, Less Flexibility

Shared transfers are a more budget-friendly choice, but they often only stop at central or more accessible villages (like Plagne Centre or Bellecôte).

• Not ideal if your accommodation is in a less-serviced area
• Expect wait time at the airport and multiple stops en route
• Less control over departure and arrival times
  

Worth considering only if your village is directly served and you’re not in a rush.

Train + Local Bus or Taxi: Scenic but Not Seamless

You can also take a train from Geneva to Aime-La-Plagne via Chambéry or Moûtiers, and then continue by taxi or bus.

• Works best if you’re staying in Plagne Centre, Aime-La-Plagne or Plagne 1800
• Requires multiple connections and schedule coordination
• Can be tiring with ski gear and children
• Not ideal during snowy weather or strikes
  

This route appeals to adventurous, experienced travelers or those extending their trip from other regions of France.

Image from: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-in-jacket-on-ski-holiday-20047144/

When Delays Happen

• Weekend traffic can add up to an hour or more
• Snowfall in the Tarentaise valley = slower climbs to higher villages
• Some routes (especially to 1800 or 1850+ elevations) may require chains or winter tires — private drivers are already prepared
  

Final Tips for a Smooth Arrival

Getting to La Plagne doesn’t have to be complicated, but a few smart moves can make the journey smoother, especially when dealing with altitude, winter weather, and multiple villages.

Double-Check Your Village Name

La Plagne has 11 different base areas. That “Plagne” in your booking confirmation? It’s not enough.

• Make sure your driver or transfer company knows your exact village name
• Some villages are close together (like Plagne Villages and Plagne Soleil), others are 30–40 minutes apart
  

Booking your transfer with us? We always confirm your village and accommodation address to plan the most efficient route.

Pack Smart, Especially if You’ll Be Walking

Many accommodations in La Plagne require a short walk from the drop-off point, particularly in pedestrianised areas or ski-in/ski-out chalets.

• Pack boots, gloves, and a warm layer in your carry-on
• Use a backpack if possible — dragging wheeled suitcases on snow gets old fast
• Let us know if you’ll need help with bags at drop-off
  

Arriving Late at Night?

Some villages reduce road access after certain hours, especially in heavy snow. If you’re flying in late:

• Choose a private transfer to avoid being stranded or rerouted
• Inform your accommodation of your arrival time
• Keep essential items accessible — not buried in the roof box
  

? Insider Reminder

If you’re travelling during school holidays or peak weekends, book your transfer early — availability drops fast, especially for smaller villages like Montchavin or Champagny.

With the right info (and the right ride), getting to your perfect La Plagne village is easy. Just don’t leave the planning to the last minute.