The Ski Resort
As far as luxury ski resorts go, La Plagne would not be high on the list although this may be a little unfair on one or two of the lower villages that make up La Plagne. For many, when you mention La Plagne, the thoughts are of high rise, purpose built ski resort, but La Plagne is actually made up of 10 villages with Champagny en Vanoise the lowest at 1,250m. Whilst Champagny has been developed somewhat in recent years, it still has some charm and a real French feel to it. Other more traditional ski resorts include Montchavin at 1,250m which is pretty, Plagne Montalbert at 1,350m and Les Coches at 1,450m which are nice.
Higher up the mountain we have La Plagne 1,800m, Plagne Bellecote at 1,930m, Plagne Centre 1,970m, Plagne Villages at 2,050m, Belle Plagne 2,050m and Aime La Plagne the highest at 2,100m. Whilst these certainly are not what we would deem to be luxury ski resorts, the lack character and sophistication, there are some very nice luxury chalet apartments that are ideal for clients looking for a good convenience ski resort with a touch of luxury at the end of the day (with swimming pool, gym and hot tubs).
La Plagne I predominantly focused on family ski holidays, beginners and intermediates and put simply this is what It does very well. The Vanoise Express cable car links La Plagne and Les Arcs where there is some more challenging runs, but this is really a beginners and early intermediates ski resort.
In summary, a good destination for family ski groups looking for a touch of luxury rather the full splash.
View La Plagne Villages - Paradaski in a larger map
Worth Knowing
For a real touch of luxury, forget the plane and take the Eurostar from St Pancra. La Plagne villages are just 15 minutes from Aime-la-Plagne train station where the Eurostar arrives either early Saturday morning (overnight leaving late friday) or Saturday evening having departed at a reasonable time Saturday morning.
Off Piste Skiing
We like Champagny so this is a must in our view. Start at Mont de la Guerre where there are gentle and wide slopes that filter down to the trees and the Champagny. Treat yourself to a taste of luxury then for a spot of lunch in Champagny which being still very French will be a delight.
Other good off-piste is the Bellecote ibut somewhat challenging in places
More gentle off-piste skiing can be found under Le Tougne ski area.