On Sunday 4 January 2026, the resort will host the 5ᵉ edition of the Alpi Serre Che, an event now firmly established in the French ski-mountaineering landscape. Part of the Trophée des Alpes du Sud and counting towards the FFME French Cup, the race will bring together established competitors, young hopefuls and enthusiasts who have come to compete on the slopes of Monêtier-les-Bains.
At a time when ski-mountaineering is gaining in visibility, driven in particular by local figures Benjamin Védrines and Mathieu Maynadier, the event is a highlight of the winter calendar.
It's also a reminder of Serre Chevalier's historical roots in the practice of high mountain sports and committed effort.
Three routes for all levels
The start will be given from the snow front at Monêtier-les-Bains, with a demanding route combining physical climbs, technical sections and challenging descents.
After an initial ascent representing around a third of the total climb, competitors will switch to the Crête des Lauzières before reaching the highest point of the event, at the Pas de l'Âne, at 2,500 metres altitude. The final descent is via the Montagnole sector.
Three formats are on offer to open up the competition to as many people as possible:
- The A route, This is the most demanding stage, with around 1,540 metres of ascent. It is reserved for the French Cup categories (U23, seniors, masters and men's U20).
- The B route, The course, which is around 1,100 metres D+, is aimed at youngsters from the U18 category upwards and also includes the U20 women competing in the French Cup.
- The C, A new feature of this year's race is the 680-metre ascent, giving youngsters in the U16 category and above a taste of the competitive spirit in an accessible format.
In 2025, more than 100 skiers took part, confirming the growing appeal of the event.
A key stage in the Southern Alps Trophy
The Alpi Serre Che is part of the Trophée des Alpes du Sud, a circuit of six major races throughout the season.
Each stage awards points according to the ranking, with a coefficient of 1.5 for the Briançonnaise event.
At the end of the final round, contested during the Grand Béal, the best male and female athletes will be awarded the trophy.
This regional circuit has a structuring role to play in the sport, offering a genuine competitive thread and a springboard towards national and international levels.
A weekend of competition
The festivities get under way on Saturday January 3 with the collection of race numbers from 4pm, followed by the runners' briefing at 6.30pm in the Salle du Dôme on the snow front at Monêtier-les-Bains.
On Sunday, participants can collect their numbers from 7.30am, before the official start at 8.30am. The finish refreshments will be served at midday, followed by the prize-giving ceremony at 1.30pm.
Registrations must be made in advance of the event; no on-site registrations will be accepted.