Freestyle skiing sensation Tess Ledeux, who honed her skills in La Plagne, is now a global champion. Here, she shares her favorite spots in her hometown resort, from picturesque views to après-ski recommendations.

Nestled in Savoie, France, La Plagne is renowned as a family-friendly ski destination with deep Olympic roots. The resort hosted bobsleighing events for the 1992 Albertville Olympics and is set to reprise its Olympic role if the French Alps secures the 2030 Winter Games. It also serves as the home base for Tess Ledeux, an Olympic medalist boasting an impressive 16 freestyle World Cup victories.

During a brief respite from her rigorous schedule, Ledeux spoke with the BBC about her favorite ways to enjoy La Plagne. "La Plagne is unique to me since I grew up here," Ledeux shares, fresh off a major victory at the FIS Freeski World Cup in Beijing. A leading contender for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympics, she reminisces, "I’d come home from school and build little jumps for my skis or sledge just outside our apartment. This resort is enormous, offering something for everyone. You’ve got glacier runs, forest trails, and both beginner and expert slopes."

Designed in 1961 by French Brutalist architect Michel Bezançon, La Plagne fulfills every skier’s dream with its ski-in, ski-out accommodations, snow-sure altitudes, and modern lift systems. While its concrete aesthetic may not scream natural charm, families love its affordable, self-catering options and plethora of outdoor activities catering to all skill levels on and off the slopes.

Here’s what Tess Ledeux recommends to get the most out of a visit to La Plagne.

Bezançon’s ambitious vision brought to life 11 interconnected villages, rising dramatically from the valley town of Aime to Aime 2000, sitting at 2,100m. Crowned by pyramid-shaped apartment buildings resembling ocean liners, this resort was part of the French government’s controversial Plan Neige initiative (1964-77), which focused on creating fully-serviced mountain resorts at high altitudes.

For an unforgettable panoramic view, Ledeux suggests the Grande Rochette peak. "The 360-degree view from the top is simply breathtaking," she says. "You can see Les Trois Vallées, the Grande Motte glacier, and all of La Plagne’s slopes." To reach this majestic viewpoint, she recommends taking the Grande Rochette cable car from Plagne Centre at any time of day. For early risers, a sunrise "first track" skiing experience offers pristine runs and unmatched serenity at 2,500m above sea level.

Website: www.skipass-laplagne.com/en/first-tracks

With 225km of skiable terrain in La Plagne and an additional 200km available in the neighboring Paradiski area, identifying just one favorite slope proved challenging for Ledeux. "I adore the Colorado run," she says. "It’s exciting, accessible for all levels, and has lots of options." Starting from the Colorado chairlift, the 1.5km descent delivers unparalleled views of Mont Blanc, while the adjoining sledding route keeps children entertained. "Under the lift, near the trees, are some hidden gems with stunning views," Ledeux adds. "Mostly off-piste, these are special spots you’d only know as a local."

For more advanced skiers, Ledeux recommends the red and black runs on the Bellecôte glacier. The north face off-piste area is legendary but should always be tackled with a guide. Above Aime 2000, the Biolley sector offers steep black runs such as Le Morbleu, a high-risk slope only accessible in favorable weather. "It can be scary," admits Ledeux, "but when conditions are right, it’s incredible."

Dining in La Plagne is as eclectic as its slopes, with numerous eateries tucked into covered galleries at Aime 2000. Ledeux loves Chez Marie in Plagne Centre for its warm alpine ambiance. Styled like a rustic chalet, the restaurant serves up quintessential Savoyard dishes, from fondue and raclette to sweet and savory crêpes. "Go for the classique complète with ham, cheese, mushrooms, and an egg. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with salted butter caramel crêpes," recommends Ledeux.

Website: chez-marie-la-plagne.eatbu.com

Address: Rue de la Gaité, Plagne Centre

Phone: +33 4 79 00 22 12

Ledeux also encourages visitors to experience the adrenaline-pumping bobsleigh track at La Plagne. "It’s unlike anything else," she says. "The speed and feeling are incredible!" A remnant of the 1992 Olympics, this 1.5km track in La Roche is the only one of its kind in France. Once a pastime for local miners in the 19th century, visitors today can race down the icy course solo with a self-braking bob or as part of a team helmed by a professional driver. Speeds can hit 120km/h on sharp turns crafted with flawless precision.

Website: en.la-plagne.com

Address: Piste de Bobsleigh, La Roche

For those into freestyle skiing, the Riders Nation snow park is a must-visit. Accessed via the Arpette chairlift and Replat piste, the park offers jumps, rails, and challenges for all skill levels. A spectator route allows even non-skiers to soak in the action. While Ledeux doesn’t train here due to its size, she recommends it for fun. "The chill zone, with sun loungers and occasional barbecue parties, is a favorite picnic spot for locals," she says.

Website: www.skipass-laplagne.com/en/riders-nation

Address: Le Bijolin 2200, 73210 Montchavin-les-Coches

To wind down, Ledeux’s top après-ski spot is Le Brix in Plagne Centre. "It has a relaxed vibe and celebrates freestyle skiing," she explains. Beer enthusiasts can pick from eight taps or over 120 bottled options, including local brews like Lost in the Woods IPA or Free Rider pilsner. Pair your drink with a platter of regional cheese and charcuterie for the ultimate experience.

Website: Le Brix Facebook

Address: 118 Rue de Refuge, Plagne Centre

Phone: +33 9 52 55 24 47

Instagram: @le_brix_bar

The SpeciaList, a BBC Travel series, delivers insights into favorite destinations through the eyes of local experts. Stay updated with The Essential List newsletter, or follow BBC Travel on Facebook, X, and Instagram.