Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise, Mountain resort in Savoie, France
Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise is a mountain village in the Alps that sits above a large ski area with numerous slopes at varying elevations. The settlement itself occupies a high valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks that shape the landscape throughout all seasons.
The settlement began as a traditional Alpine farming community and became a winter sports destination only from the 1980s onward. This transformation introduced new infrastructure and visitors while reshaping the character of the small village.
The village retains its roots as a mountain community with traditional stone buildings visible throughout the older sections. Visitors and locals alike gather in cafés and small shops between outings, treating the place as a refuge from the slopes.
The location is connected to the valley below via a mountain road and sits above 1500 meters in elevation, making the climate harsh and unpredictable. Visitors should come prepared with appropriate gear and clothing for snow and mountain wind, as conditions can shift rapidly.
The ski area benefits from easterly winds coming off the Italian Alps that provide natural protection to lower slopes during heavy storms. This geographic advantage makes the location more reliable for winter sports than many comparable regions at the same elevation.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.