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What to Do when there is rain in La Plagne on Your Family Ski Holiday
Rain in La Plagne – what to do!
You’ve made it to the mountains, ski passes in hand, kids buzzing with excitement. And then the clouds roll in. It’s raining in La Plagne. Not quite what you pictured for your big family ski holiday, right?
Rain might not be part of the snow-globe fantasy, but here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to ruin your trip. As someone who lives in La Plagne year-round with my family, I can promise you that there are still loads of ways to make the most of your time, on and off the slopes.
Whether you're wondering what to do when it's raining in La Plagne, need ideas for entertaining little ones, or want to find the best places to ski when the weather isn’t playing ball. I've got you covered.
Can You Still Ski in La Plagne When It Rains?
Yes – but it depends where you go.
Rain (if it happens) usually hits the lower villages (like Montchavin or Montalbert) when temperatures rise, especially in spring. But don’t write off skiing completely. Head higher to places like the La Plagne Glacier, Roche de Mio, or even over towards Les Arcs via the Vanoise Express. You’re more likely to find snow instead of slush.
Pro tip: dress for wet weather. Good waterproof ski gear can make a big difference. There's a really useful post here about what to wear to ski in all temperatures. It will help you anticipate what to pack and what layers to wear each day.
And if you're unsure about how to handle those soft, soggy conditions, check out this guide I’ve written on how to ski on slushy snow.
Where to Ski When It’s Wet
- La Plagne Glacier: Higher altitude, more snow, less rain.
- Roche de Mio: Reliable even when the village is soggy.
- Northern facing slopes: Typically, the northern-facing pistes will stay firmer longer than southern ones, which are in the direct sunlight longer.
- Les Arcs (via Vanoise Express): Worth the trip for a change of scenery and possibly better conditions.
You’ll still want to check the lift and piste openings daily, La Plagne’s Yuge app or the local signage is your friend here.
Indoor and Covered Activities in La Plagne for Rainy Days
If skiing’s not an option – or if your little ones are soaked and grumpy – there’s still plenty to do that doesn’t involve strapping on skis.
- La Plagne Swimming Pools (Plagne Bellecôte, Montchavin or Montalbert): Heated, fun, and a nice break from ski boots. More information is available on the best La Plagne swimming pools here.
- Spa time! Visit one of La Plagne's Alpine Spas – there are several hotels with lovely spas. Or you can visit the Deep Nature Spa in Belle Plagne.
- Bowling in Belle Plagne or Plagne Centre: Bowling is always a hit with kids (and grown-ups).
- Arcades & pool tables: There are some small arcades and games rooms found in some of the larger villages.
- Cinema in Plagne Centre: Films are often in English (check listings for “VO” – version originale).
- Hot chocolates at one of the best spots in La Plagne: Warm up with a treat and one of the best hot chocolate stops in La Plagne.
- DIY movie night in your accommodation: Popcorn, PJs, and a tablet = instant win.
Rainy Day Trips Just Outside La Plagne
If you’ve got a car, it’s worth knowing a few off-mountain options for a family day out:
- Thermal Baths in Brides-les-Bains: Some allow kids, others are adults-only – a great option if you’ve got grandparents in tow who can babysit.
- Museums and local history spots like the Musée de la Montagne in Les Arcs or Maison de la Pomme in Seez.
- Climbing Centre – Reve de Blocs is a great climbing centre in Aime La Plagne. It's on the industrial site near the E le Clerc supermarket in Aime.
- Trampoline parks – Albertville is the closest for the Katapult trampoline park if you're willing to go a bit further for a full day out.
- Annecy – always beautiful, whatever the weather! It’s about 90 minutes from La Plagne. But worth the visit.
Budget-Savvy Tips for Rainy Days
Rainy days don’t have to mean extra expenses. With a bit of planning, you can still keep the whole family entertained without blowing the budget. Pack a few card games or travel-sized board games in your suitcase. These are some of our favourite games that also fit in a solopette pocket, so you can take them skiing with you. They're perfect to pull out for long lunch stops.
If you’re more digital, download some family-friendly games or films to a tablet before you travel, so you’re not relying on Wi-Fi. If your kids are readers, then stocking up on some books on Kindle Unlimited might be a great shout-out. This is something I use loads for myself. I'm trying to encourage my kids to read more, but they are more screen-obsessed at the moment! They will sometimes agree to listen to an audiobook on Audible, however, especially as I've told them they can't watch the Harry Potter movies until we've read the books! I've reviewed Audile for ski holidays here if you're thinking about it.
If you're looking for some ski-themed books, I've put together a huge list of adult ski books and kids' ski-themed books here. Plus reviews of as many of them as I've been able to read!
It’s also a good idea to keep a stash of snacks or treats for a spontaneous indoor picnic; it's nothing fancy. Just something to keep spirits up when you need a low-key moment.
Top Tips for Rainy Days in La Plagne
Don’t let wet weather catch you off guard—here are my top 10 tried-and-tested tips for making the most of a rainy day in La Plagne on your family ski holiday:
- Head high – Ski up at the Glacier or Roche de Mio where it’s more likely to be snow than rain.
- Layer up with waterproofs – Bring or rent an extra shell to stay dry on the slopes.
- Visit the swimming pool – The one in Plagne Bellecôte is family-friendly and heated.
- Play indoors – Max-out your chalet time or the play arcades in the resort keep little ones happy.
- Go bowling – Belle Plagne’s bowling alley is ideal for a fun, dry afternoon.
- Cosy up with a movie – Download films in advance or check out the cinema in Plagne Centre.
- Warm up with hot chocolate – Stop at a local café and turn it into a family treat.
- Take a day trip – If you’ve got a car, explore indoor spots nearby like thermal baths or museums.
- Curl up with a book – Whether it's reading on Kindle together or listening to a book on Audible. Both can be a perfect escape.
- Pack a rainy-day kit – Think games, snacks, and downloaded shows for relaxed chalet time.
With the right mindset (and a backup plan or two!), a rainy day in La Plagne can still be one to remember.
See you on the slopes!
