Planay: Mountain Landscapes, Waterfall and Historic Hamlets

Planay stretches along the Doron de Pralognan from Villard du Planay to Pont de Pierra Crêpa. The river, high mountain landscape and historic mountain villages each offer a different character. When planning a stay, you can choose from nature trails, climbing destinations and cultural sites: some lead to a viewpoint, while others require climbing experience or offer the chance to explore chapels and hamlets.

Mountain Landscape and National Park

The mountain area of Planay ranges from an altitude of 870 metres to the 3,398-metre Grand Bec. There is a staffed mountain refuge on this mountain. Alpinists will find climbing routes in the Grand Bec area; check the conditions before climbing.

The municipality includes 296 hectares within the core area of Vanoise National Park. A further 2,017 hectares of the municipality lie within the park’s optimal membership area.

Trails, Waterfall and Climbing Destinations

The Cascade de la Vuzelle was placed under protection in 1935 and is considered a notable feature of the valley landscape. A trail from Chambéranger leads to a viewpoint where you can see the waterfall, which is about 100 metres high. Weather and temporary local closures may affect access; check conditions before setting out.

The trail information varies considerably: the Circuit de Ballandaz is considered suitable for families and has benches and picnic areas along the route. The Tour du Merle, by contrast, is a marked 3.5-kilometre out-and-back trail rated difficult; access to the summit is reserved for experienced climbers. A closure warning is in effect for the Circuit de Ballandaz for 2026, and there is also a temporary closure warning for the Tour du Merle. Check current access to both trails before setting out.

Les Galinettes is a high-alpine rock-climbing route near the Grand Bec. The approach starts at Plan Fournier, at an altitude of 1,700 metres, and passes via La Cave towards Fontaine Froide. The route is described as a one-day circuit returning to the base of the cliff. Since access depends on snow conditions, take these into account when planning.

Mountain Villages and Religious Heritage

Chambéranger is a traditional mountain village, with steep lanes and rows of houses clinging to the slope. The Chapelle Saint-Barthélémy was built in 1505 and is the oldest chapel in the parish of Planay. The village layout and chapel offer different points of interest if you’re interested in the architectural history and distinctive character of these long-established mountain settlements.

Notre-Dame de la Salette comprises a chapel and 14 stations. A closure notice is currently in effect for the associated circular trail; check access before visiting. A mass is celebrated at the chapel every year on 19 September. If you plan to time your trip to coincide with this occasion, confirm the arrangements for the year in question.

La Novaz is also a destination in its own right for discovering the area’s architectural heritage: its hamlet ensemble has been authentically preserved and maintained. The Chapelle Notre-Dame des Neiges dates from 1633 and is dedicated to the Holy Trinity. The date and dedication give the small chapel a clear historical connection.

Hydropower and Local Products

Galerie Hydraulica is an interpretation centre dedicated to hydropower and its history in the Bozel Valley. It was temporarily closed in summer 2026. Check current access before planning a visit.

At the Cave de Ritord, Beaufort cheese from the Ritord alpine pasture, Tommes, Raclette and other local products are made traditionally and sold directly.

Discover more destinations: Myans, Valmorel, Montaimont, Montsapey, Lanslevillard, Bourg-Saint-Maurice, La Tania, La Motte-En-Bauges.

For the broader travel overview: Savoie.