Le col d’Ornon

Accueil » Stations » Le col d’Ornon

A wild link between the Oisans and Matheysine, the Col d’Ornon (1,371m) is an invitation to gentle mountains, far from the frenzy of Isère’s large tourist complexes. Nestled at the foot of the Grand Armet and the Taillefer, this village resort cultivates a rare authenticity. In winter, it becomes a family cocoon for alpine and Nordic skiing, while summer reveals a territory of raw nature, famous for its alder forest and panoramic hiking routes at the gateway to the Écrins National Park.

📌 Northern French Alps – Isère

Le col d’Ornon

📏 Altitude: 1370 m

🎿 Alpine skiing: 7 km

⛷️ Cross-country skiing: 22 km

🌟 Resort style: Snow stadium

💰 From 13 €/day (2025-2026)

3 green

1 blue

2 red

2 black

Overview of Le col d’Ornon

At 1,350 metres altitude, the resort extends across a vast pastoral plateau straddling the communes of Ornon (Oisans side) and Chantelouve (Matheysine side). This singular geographical position — flanked by the steep slopes of the Taillefer massif to the west and the Ecrins foothills to the east — offers an exceptional visual openness and generous light. Far from tower blocks and massive infrastructure, the Col d’Ornon has preserved its mountain village soul. The settlement is dispersed in picturesque hamlets below the pass, dominated by stone and timber buildings harmoniously integrated into the landscape. Time seems to slow here: the resort favours a human-scale approach, promoting conviviality, personalised welcome and respect for a fragile mountain environment. Beyond its ski area, the site is a recognised natural gem, home to the largest green alder forest in Europe — a classified forest providing valuable shelter for diverse wildlife.

Our review — Le col d’Ornon

★★☆☆☆ 2.7/5

Ski area — key figures — Le col d’Ornon

🌟 Snow stadium (Isère)
📏 1370 m Village altitude (1850 m Top altitude)
🎿 8 runs

37.5%

12.5%

25%

🚠 3 ski lifts

Power moment^*: 391 km.sk/h (Small resort)

Average lift age: 55 years

Get directions to Le col d’Ornon

When to visit

Le col d’Ornon in summer

With the snowmelt, the Col d’Ornon transforms into a true playground for nature lovers. Walking trails wind through the largest alder forest in Europe, offering exceptional panoramas over the surrounding summits. Cyclists and mountain bikers appreciate the winding roads and routes adapted to all levels. A summer orienteering course also allows you to discover the natural richness of the site in a fun way.

🎯 Things to do in summer:

✅ Road cycling • ✅ Enduro MTB • ✅ Hiking

Le col d’Ornon in winter

With the first snowfalls, the resort dons its white coat and offers a range of winter activities. Alpine skiing is the highlight, with runs suited to beginners and experienced skiers alike. Nordic skiing enthusiasts have access to 21 km of groomed and marked trails, crossing forests and clearings. Marked snowshoe circuits offer an alternative for exploring the mountains gently, while a toboggan piste delights the youngest visitors.

🎯 Things to do in winter:

✅ Alpine skiing • ✅ Cross-country skiing • ✅ Snowshoeing

Skiing

Below is an overview of the ski area accessible from Le col d’Ornon: Le Col d’Ornon (alpin).

Ski area — Le Col d’Ornon

⛰️ Altitudes: 1330 m – 1850 m
🎿 Alpine skiing: 7 km
💰 Day pass: 13 €

Located at the gateway to the Ecrins National Park, the Col d’Ornon ski area is a village resort that has preserved a convivial and authentic atmosphere. Positioned directly on the pass at 1,350 metres altitude, the resort offers ski-in ski-out access to an alpine ski area particularly well suited to families and beginner skiers. The ski area ranges from 1,350 to 2,000 metres altitude and has 8 runs (4 green, 1 blue, 2 red and 1 ungroomed black run for the more experienced). This configuration makes it a privileged learning destination, far from the crowds of large ski areas. The ski area is served by 4 drag lifts and has two specific beginner zones: one at the ski area base for first-time sliding, and a second Kid Park at altitude allowing novices to benefit from an exceptional panorama while practising. The ski area’s main asset is its preserved natural environment, with runs through fir forests. Snow quality is good and complemented if needed by snowmaking. The resort also offers night skiing on an illuminated run — an experience appreciated by young and old alike.

Our full guide to Le Col d’Ornon

Save on ski hire with Alpy.com

Book your ski equipment online and save up to 65% compared to resort prices with our partner Alpy.com. Quality gear available near your accommodation, free cancellation, group discounts. Book with code ALTI5 for an extra 5% off!