An iconic spot for technical freeride enthusiasts
The Chardonnet couloirs, known as the Chardonnet Bowl to English speakers, form a large east-facing natural amphitheater above the Lac du Chardonnet, high above Tignes Le Lac. This sector is known for its numerous couloirs of varying steepness and width, making it a prime location for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders looking to refine their off-piste technique.
After a snowfall, the snow quality is often excellent, with the bowl’s shape helping preserve the powder. Despite being close to the ski lifts, the area feels wild and technical, requiring solid experience and the right gear.
Access from the Grattalu chairlift
Access to the Chardonnet couloirs starts from the top of the Grattalu chairlift at around 2,800 m. From there, a short but steep hike is necessary. We recommend:
- Carrying your skis or snowboard on a backpack
- Using crampons if the snow is icy or hard
- Following the visible traverse to the ridge in clear weather
This 15- to 30-minute approach brings you to the entrance of the Chardonnet Bowl – a naturally wind-sheltered area often loaded with fresh snow.
Want to explore this sector safely? Book a guided off-piste session in Tignes.
Multiple couloirs and a wide range of lines
Once you reach the ridge, several couloirs open up in front of you, with slopes of up to 40°, narrow passages, and plenty of technical variations.
Each line offers its own vibe:
- Direct entries with steep slopes right from the start
- Smoother traverses for a more gradual descent
- Narrower chutes to work on flow and control in steep terrain
Thanks to the bowl’s open shape, you can easily scope the lines and prepare your descent. However, caution is advised:
- The snowpack may be overloaded after big storms
- Watch out for cornices on the ridge
- Spontaneous sluffs can occur during warming periods
Descent to Lac du Chardonnet and return to resort
The second half of the run gradually leads down to the Lac du Chardonnet, where the terrain widens and flattens slightly, offering long, flowing turns in natural snow.
A few pole pushes will then bring you to:
- The Grand Huit chairlift if you want to head back up
- Or Tignes Le Lac for a well-deserved break
There are no technical sections on the exit, making this area ideal for steep-skiing practice close to the ski area.
Technical details
- Start: Top of Grattalu chairlift – 2,800 m
- Finish: Tignes Le Lac – 2,050 m
- Vertical drop: 750 m
- Orientation: East to north-east
- Total duration: 1h30 to 2h depending on conditions
- Average slope: 35° to 40°
- Required level: Advanced to expert
- Recommended gear: Avalanche transceiver (DVA), shovel, probe, helmet, crampons, airbag pack recommended
Want help choosing the right line? Meet our team of instructors in Tignes.
Who are the Chardonnet couloirs for?
This sector is perfect for:
- Experienced freeriders working on steep-skiing technique
- Well-trained groups seeking progressive yet demanding terrain
- Advanced snowboarders confident in tight couloirs
- Freeriders used to typical winter conditions and terrain reading
We do not recommend this area:
- For off-piste beginners
- During bad weather or high avalanche risk
- Without proper physical preparation for the hike
Don’t hesitate to contact us for a safe off-piste adventure!
Other Couloirs and Freeride Spots to Explore
If you enjoyed the Chardonnet Bowl, you may also like:
- Tufs couloirs – north-facing slopes above the lake
- Oreilles de Mickey – a challenging line between Tignes and Val d’Isère
- Grande Motte north face – for a high alpine freeride adventure
