Experience La Grande Odyssée: Witness Valmorel’s Dog Sled Spectacle from Chalet Du Crey

Looking for a front‑row winter adventure with all the comforts at day’s end? La Grande Odyssée—Europe’s landmark multi‑stage dog sled race—brings elite mushers and their canine athletes to Valmorel for a breathtaking alpine showcase. From Chalet Du Crey, just 100 m from the slopes and lifts, you can plan effortless access to the Valmorel–Doucy stage and pair the spectacle with exceptional skiing and a cozy hotel base.

In this guide, you’ll learn what makes La Grande Odyssée unique, how the Valmorel stage unfolds, where Chalet Du Crey fits into your plans, and practical tips to make the most of your stay.

What makes La Grande Odyssée unique

La Grande Odyssée is widely recognized as one of the most technical dog sled races on the international scene. It’s a demanding alpine epic across Savoie and Haute‑Savoie that rewards preparation, teamwork, and precision.

Key facts at a glance:

• A multi‑stage race over approximately ten days and ten stages
• More than 800 km covered with over 25,000 m of cumulative ascent
• Traverses the alpine landscapes of Savoie Mont Blanc, including massifs in the Portes du Soleil and Haute Maurienne Vanoise
• Since its inaugural edition in January 2005, it’s become the annual reference for dog sledding in Europe
• Each year brings more than 25 mushers and their approximately 400 high‑level dogs from across Europe

Why it matters to spectators:

• The format showcases endurance and strategy across changing snow conditions and elevation gains.
• Stage racing means you can target the Valmorel day to see top contenders up close without following the full route.
• The scenery is part of the show—expect sweeping Savoie Mont Blanc views and dynamic mid‑distance pacing.

The Valmorel–Doucy stage: what to expect

Since 2020, Valmorel has hosted a dedicated stage of La Grande Odyssée that links Valmorel to Doucy. The route offers mid‑distance segments of roughly 30–45 km per day, creating a spectator‑friendly blend of speed, tactics, and terrain variety.

What this means for your trip:

• You can focus your visit around the Valmorel–Doucy stage to maximize viewing with minimal transfers.
• The stage showcases the unique character of Valmorel and Doucy in winter, set against the wider Savoie Mont Blanc backdrop.
• Because the overall race is a multi‑day odyssey, Valmorel’s stage delivers competitive intensity without requiring you to travel across the entire circuit.

Tip: Programs can vary by edition. Check the official schedule as your dates approach and arrive early at marked spectator areas for the best vantage points.

Stay steps from the slopes at Chalet Du Crey

Chalet Du Crey places you right where winter is easiest. The hotel sits about 100 m from the pistes and lifts, and when snow conditions are favorable you can ski via the Rocher piste to within 50 m of the property. You’re approximately 1.5 km from Valmorel’s pedestrian centre, so dining, strolling, and après moments remain close at hand.

Additional highlights:

• A large, sunny terrace with a beautiful valley view—perfect for a relaxing drink after race‑day excitement
• Valmorel’s alpine setting at 1,320 m, with access to Savoie’s celebrated landscapes and the nearby Parc de la Vanoise
• Direct access to the Le Grand Domaine ski area linking Valmorel, Saint‑François‑Longchamp, Doucy, and Celliers with about 165 km of interconnected pistes

Rooms and comfort

Chalet Du Crey features 29 spacious, comfortable rooms, each with a private bathroom (shower, WC) and TV. Room categories include:

• Double Comfort
• Triple Comfort
• Quadruple Comfort
• Comfort 5‑person
• Double Standard
• Triple Standard
• Quadruple Standard
• 5‑person Standard
• Family (6‑person)

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or in a family group, you’ll find the right fit for your La Grande Odyssée getaway.

Seamless winter logistics

Getting here is straightforward, even on busy race weeks:

• By train: Arrive at Moûtiers–Salins and Notre‑Dame‑de‑Briançon station. On weekends, Altibus coaches run to Valmorel (stop: Valmorel Le Pré), roughly 100 m from the hotel. Booking at least 24 hours in advance is recommended.
• Transfers: If you notify the hotel in advance, a car pick‑up may be possible. Taxis are also available from the station (advance reservation advised).
• Ski passes: Book passes through the hotel so they’re ready at reception on arrival—no time lost on the slopes.
• Equipment: Reserve ski or snowboard gear online at reduced rates and benefit from an additional 5% discount.
• Peace of mind: A dedicated cancellation insurance pack is available for winter stays.
• Flexible stays: Look out for MidweekSki and WeekSki All Inclusive promotions, plus an All Inclusive package that pairs lodging and lift access on Le Grand Domaine.

Practical tips to see La Grande Odyssée in Valmorel

Make the most of your viewing day with simple, high‑impact planning:

1. Plan your vantage points

   • Focus on the Valmorel–Doucy stage start/finish areas or designated spectator zones.
   • Arrive early to secure clear sightlines while respecting all marked boundaries.

2. Dress for mountain conditions

   • Layer up, protect extremities, and bring sunglasses—alpine light reflects strongly off snow.
   • Pack a thermos and snacks so you can stay in position comfortably.

3. Respect teams and course integrity

   • Keep a safe distance from the dogs and sleds.
   • Follow all instructions from on‑site staff and signage.

4. Use local transport and simple routes

   • Weekends often feature Altibus connections, and Valmorel’s compact layout helps you move without stress.
   • If you’re driving, allow extra time for parking and walking to spectator areas.

5. Pair the race with winter fun

   • Explore Le Grand Domaine’s ~165 km of pistes for a full ski day before or after the stage.
   • For family thrills, the Doucy Aventures sledding track spans 2.4 km with varied sensations for all ages.

6. Book early

   • Rooms near the slopes fill fast around major events. Use Chalet Du Crey’s online booking to lock in preferred dates and room types.

Quick answers about La Grande Odyssée in Valmorel

• What is La Grande Odyssée?

  • A premier, highly technical multi‑stage dog sled race across Savoie and Haute‑Savoie, running over about ten days and ten stages.

• How challenging is it?

  • The route exceeds 800 km with over 25,000 m of total ascent, attracting elite teams from across Europe.

• When is Valmorel on the route?

  • Since 2020, Valmorel has hosted a stage that links Valmorel to Doucy, featuring mid‑distance sections of about 30–45 km per day.

• How many teams compete?

  • The event brings more than 25 mushers and roughly 400 dogs each year.

• How close is Chalet Du Crey to the slopes?

  • About 100 m from the pistes and lifts; with good snow, you can ski via the Rocher piste to within 50 m of the hotel.

• How do I get from the train to the hotel?

  • Travel to Moûtiers–Salins and Notre‑Dame‑de‑Briançon. On weekends, Altibus coaches go to Valmorel Le Pré (about 100 m from the hotel). Taxis are available, and a hotel pick‑up may be possible if arranged in advance.

Conclusion: Make your move for a front‑row winter

La Grande Odyssée brings elite sled‑dog drama to Valmorel, and Chalet Du Crey gives you an easy, comfortable base just steps from the slopes. From seamless access to the Valmorel–Doucy stage to the freedom of Le Grand Domaine’s interconnected pistes, your alpine week can balance world‑class sporting spectacle with relaxed, slope‑side living.

Ready to experience La Grande Odyssée in Valmorel? Book your stay online or contact the team:

• Email: info@chaletducrey.com or accueil@chaletducrey.com
• Phone: +33 (0) 4 57 55 11 34

Secure your dates early and enjoy an unforgettable winter at Chalet Du Crey.