Some resorts were created by developers and investors. And then there are Les KarellisA resort born of an idea, an ideal and a collective commitment. On the heights of Montricher-Albanne, in the Maurienne, this unique project has made its way far from commercial models, driven by a conviction: skiing should be a pleasure accessible to all, a driving force for life in the valley and a symbol of solidarity.
1972 - The idea of a mountain for everyone
While the Alps are covered with resorts designed as real estate showcases, the small municipality of Montricher-Albanne has come up with a different approach.
Faced with rural desertification and the decline in agricultural activity, elected representatives are dreaming of a social, cooperative and human tourism model, supported by works councils. The Les Karellis site, facing due south at an altitude of 1,600 metres, was a magnet for sunshine, gentle slopes and beautiful views. The adventure can begin.
1975 - The birth of a pioneering resort
Three years later, the gamble became a reality. Les Karellis officially opened in December 1975. The first residences, co-financed by the local authorities, were built at the foot of the slopes. The ski lifts were ready, the roads were laid out and the shops and restaurants were integrated into the project.
An all-inclusive resort, with no cars and no speculation, was born - a revolutionary concept at the time. At the same time, SACMAC (Société Anonyme Coopérative Montricher-Albanne Coop) was created to manage the resort's economic activities.
Word of mouth started to spread, and families, employees, associations and local authorities began to make the place their own. Les Karellis has become a national model of social tourism, rooted in solidarity, collective hospitality and simplicity. Even seasonal workers found their place, integrated into the life of the village and its services.
1990s - The turn of the four seasons
While many resorts focus solely on snow, Les Karellis has made the bold choice to live in summer too.
Guided hikes, nature activities, family breaks, mountain festivals: the resort is opening up to the great outdoors and to a clientele keen to breathe differently. This diversification confirms the resort's vocation: to welcome visitors all year round, in a collective and accessible spirit.
2006 - The Vinouve chairlift: a first in France
Always ahead of its time, the resort wrote a new page in its history with the creation of the Vinouve detachable chairlift, the first in France to be equipped with heated seats.
Built by employees of the Régie Autonome des Karellis, this two-year project symbolises the strength of the local community and local know-how. It replaces the old Porte Brune lift, but with a completely redesigned route to improve fluidity and comfort for skiers.
2016 - A merger serving social tourism
In November 2014, two big names in community tourism - Renouveau Vacances and Villages Clubs du Soleil - joined forces.
Two years later, Les Karellis officially joins the Villages Clubs du Soleil family. This new step has enabled us to strengthen our offering while preserving our founding values: holidays for all, in privileged natural environments, supported by non-profit organisations.
2019 - A rethink of local governance
After decades under a delegated public service contract, Les Karellis is back in the driving seat. The end of the public service delegation marks a desire to modernise without abandoning the original spirit.
The local authority has become more involved in tourism policy and has set up an independent association to manage the tourist office. The aim: greater autonomy, greater coherence, and always the same strong idea of a participative model at the service of the region.
2025 - 50 years of human and collective adventure
Fifty years on, Les Karellis continues to be an exception in the Alpine landscape. The resort remains true to its mission: to offer holidays that are supportive, intergenerational and sustainable, where the mountains are not a product but a shared asset.
To celebrate this half-century of history, a year of exceptional festivities is in store, including retrospectives, meetings, exhibitions, concerts and themed events.
A way of paying tribute to all those - elected representatives, seasonal workers, employees, families, holidaymakers - who have made Les Karellis much more than just a ski resort.
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