Chalmazel is a ski resort in the Massif Central, in the Loire. The ski area stretches over 12 km of runs between 1,110 m and 1,600 m, served by 8 lifts. Day lift pass 22€ per adult.
* Price per adult for 1 day, public high-season rate. Reduced rates (online purchase, outside school holidays, families, children, seniors) are generally offered by the resort.
Chalmazel is a family resort at 1,100 m in the Monts du Forez. Gateway to the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park, it usually offers good skiing in a preserved low-mountain setting, very accessible from Clermont-Ferrand and Lyon. ⚠️ The Loire Département announced at the end of 2025 the temporary closure of the resort for the 2025/2026 season, for budgetary and safety-compliance reasons. The future of the ski area beyond this season remains to be confirmed, so check before any trip.
- Preserved Monts du Forez
- Closed for winter 2025/2026
- Accessible from Saint-Étienne
Based on the resort's altitude and historical snow reliability
Chalmazel is a small, understated resort, with 12 km of runs for an intimate skiing experience, far from the bustle of the big resorts. This is where you come for calm, authenticity and no queues at the lifts. Chalmazel's family reputation is well deserved: dedicated beginner areas, a well-run childcare service, well-groomed green runs and a friendly atmosphere at the foot of the lifts. It is one of the most reassuring resorts in the Massif Central for getting children started on skiing. Chalmazel's modest altitude, starting at 1,110 m and reaching 1,600 m at the top, makes it sensitive to climate variations. January and February remain the safest months for optimal snow cover. Outside this window, checking the snow reports before you leave is strongly advised. With a day lift pass at only 22€, Chalmazel is one of the most affordable destinations in France. For families on a tight budget, or skiers who want to make many outings without breaking the bank, it is a sincere and often overlooked choice. In short, Chalmazel does not compete with the ski giants, and does not pretend to. It is an honest destination, often underrated, that deserves to be (re)discovered.
The ski area sits on the east side of Pierre-sur-Haute, with the village resort at the foot of the runs.
Source: Open-Meteo.com · Data updated in real time
At this altitude, snow reliability depends on the conditions of the year. Check the state of the runs before you leave. Real-time data: Open-Meteo (weather model). Monthly averages: estimates based on the resort's historical data.
