By Mel Fowler
Whether you are exploring the great mountain area around Argentiere in Summer or Winter, you are more than
likely to work up a huge appetite. Fortunately there are some great places to grab a snack or settle down for a more in depth refuel. And of course the added bonus is that in all cases the views that accompany the food are simply breathtaking. Here are just a few of my favourites, each in my opinion is well worth a visit.
La Crémerie du Glacier d’Argentière – Argentière
Built in 1926, this is Argentière’s oldest restaurant.
Nestled amongst the trees not far from the Grands Montets cable car, this family owned, traditional restaurant serves some of the best Savoyarde dishes in the Valley. Famed for its cheese dishes, particularly the Croutes and Fondues, La Cremerie is the place to go if you’re skiing on the Grand Montets.
Accessed either by ski from the Pierre à Ric slope or by foot from the Grand Montets carpark. Book in advance to avoid disappointment!
Le Refuge de Lognan – Grands Montets
If the Grands Montets is your chosen area for the day, you mustn’t miss out on the fantastic Refuge de Lognan! In this very chilled atmosphere, you can enjoy delicious home made meals, whilst admiring the stunning views of t he aiguilles rouges mountain range, as well as the Argentiére glacier. You will also meet plenty of locals taking in the sun on their days off!
Alpage de Balme – Le Tour
This authentic little alpine hut is the perfect place to refuel on the sunny terrace after a few hours on the slopes at Le Tour. With a wide variety of mountain dishes to choose from, you are sure to find something you’ll love on their menu.
Le Café Comptoir – Vallorcine
Situated at the bottom of the slopes in the quiet village of Vallorcine, Le Café Comptoir offers mouthwatering dishes in a stylish and cosy atmosphere. Being at the end of a long red run it’s a fabulous place to stop for a coffee or try the delicious hot chocolate – yummy! The staff are always very friendly and the meals are extremely good value for on the mountain dining. Just don’t miss the last cable car back! Booking in advance recommended to avoid disappointment.
La Cascade de Bérard – Vallorcine
This tiny authentic alpine chalet is perfect for anyone who enjoys a bit of adventure! Hidden away in the forest, 20 minutes walk from the small village of Le Buet (before Vallorcine), you will find this cute mountain hut directly above one of the valleys most amazing waterfalls. All traditional croutes and omelettes are served here. In Winter, better get those snowshoes on – you might need them! –
Restaurant le Panoramic – Le Brévent
Situated at the top of the Brévent mountain, Le Panoramic has one of the best views of Mont Blanc the valley has to offer. The restaurant is easily accessible to both skiers and pedestrians. On the menu you will find Savoyarde food as well as soup, pasta, steak and even foie gras!
Bad Weather days
Unfortunately the weather doesn’t always play ball when it comes to Alpine holidays! With that in mind here’s a couple of great places to go in Argentiere when the great outdoors is not a great option:
La Petite Verte – Argentière
Offering a 3 course lunch time menu for just €17 La Petite Verte, situated on the main street of Argentiere, is a cracking restaurant to visit if your not on the mountain. Relaxed atmosphere, great food – the Carpaccio appetizer is one of our favourites – and the excellent helpful service make this a place not to be missed!
La Remise – Argentière
If you’re looking for a true fine dining experience then La Remise is the place for you. It’s where to go for a real treat and one of the few places to have an open wood fire, which just adds to the atmosphere perfectly. If you like your meat dishes then this is the place to come with La Remises specialising in dry ageing their beef for a minimum of 30 days.
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