Getting Around Briançon — Transport in the Serre Chevalier Valley

The Serre Chevalier valley is 15km long, connecting Briançon town to Monêtier-les-Bains with Chantemerle and Villeneuve in between. A free ski bus runs between the four villages in winter during ski season. In summer, the bus service is reduced and a car is significantly more useful. Parking is available in each village but fills quickly in peak weeks.

Ski Bus (Winter)

A free bus connects all four villages during the ski season.

• Free shuttle bus runs between Briançon, Chantemerle, Villeneuve, and Monêtier
• Frequency varies; typically every 30–60 minutes (check current timetable at serre-chevalier.com)
• Runs from approximately 8:30 to 22:00 during ski season
• Not reliable for early-morning ski school starts; check timing carefully
• Taxis are available in each village for trips outside bus hours

By Car

A car gives maximum flexibility, particularly in summer.

• The main road (D1091) runs the length of the valley from Briançon to Monêtier
• 25 minutes by car from Briançon to Monêtier
• Parking in each village is paid in peak season, often free in quieter periods
• Road chains are not typically required in the valley; the D1091 is kept clear
• Col du Lautaret (above Monêtier) requires chains in some winter conditions

Arriving in Briançon

Options for arriving in Briançon.

• By car from Grenoble is 95km (1h30), Lyon 160km (2h), Turin 110km (1h30)
• By train, direct from Grenoble to Briançon (TER, 3 hours); no TGV service to Briançon
• Airport transfer services run from Grenoble to Briançon in peak ski season
• Nearest airports are Grenoble Alpes (2h), Lyon Saint-Exupéry (2.5h), and Turin (1.5h)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a car in Briançon?

In winter, the free ski bus is workable if you are staying in one of the four villages and only skiing the main area. The timing is not always reliable for early ski school starts. In summer, a car makes a real difference — the valley bus runs less frequently and most hiking trailheads are not served.

Is there a bus between Briançon and the ski resorts?

Yes. The free ski bus runs Briançon, Chantemerle, Villeneuve, and Monêtier throughout the ski season (approximately December to April), roughly every 30–60 minutes from around 8:30 to 22:00. Check the current timetable at serre-chevalier.com before relying on it.