It seems like a contradiction: the wildest, most remote places are now becoming the most sought-after destinations for families. The success of the Grand Tour de Tarentaise in the Vallée des Belleville shows that “wild” and “family-friendly” are not mutually exclusive; in fact, with the right support, they are the perfect combination.
The allure for families is the chance for an authentic adventure away from curated theme parks. In the “wildest place” in the valley, the Varlossière, children can experience nature in its raw state—seeing eagles, dramatic peaks, and a daytime moon. These are formative experiences that build resilience and a love for the outdoors.
The key is that this wildness is carefully managed. The region provides a crucial safety net that makes these adventures possible for non-experts. Family-oriented refuges like Refuge Plan Lombardie, accessible trails, and the option to hire a guide remove the fear factor, allowing families to focus on the fun and discovery.
This new model of family travel recognizes that parents want to give their children meaningful, challenging experiences. The Vallée des Belleville proves that you don’t need to tame a landscape to make it accessible. Instead, you can provide the tools and support to empower families to confidently step into the wild together.