Les Grands Bains de Monêtier spa and leisure centre opened its doors in 2008, but it was in 1999 that the commune of Monêtier decided to re-exploit its thermal penchant to differentiate Serre Chevalier from other all-ski destinations and to be less dependent on reduced snowfall. From the 18th century until 1960, two hot springs made the village famous, and even before that, Caesar's troops had noted the benefits of these waters. In 1884, the train arrived in Briançon and the railway company wanted to buy the baths in exchange for extending the line to Monêtier. The commune refused in order to preserve the mountain, and even though Monestier-de-Briançon was renamed Monêtier les Bains, the activity gradually ceased. Only the villagers still took advantage of the hot springs.
When you go on holiday to Serre Chevalier, whether in summer or winter, it's almost obligatory to stop off at the spa in the huge Les Grands Bains de Monêtier aquatic complex. The aquatic and wellness centre has literally propelled the resort of Serre Chevalier to the top of the list of wellness destinations in both winter and summer. With an exceptional view of the snow-capped peaks, you can enjoy the indoor and outdoor pools. Les Grands Bains de Monêtier is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful thermo-ludic centres to try out during your mountain holidays. You can enjoy the bathing areas as well as massages, facials and activities such as aquatic yoga. Whether you're with the family (restricted hours for children under 3) or with friends, you'll have a delightful time that you'll remember for the rest of your holiday, with two hours of discovery and pure relaxation.
Grands Bains de Monêtier
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The origins of baths
In the early 2000s, a first facility was created, "Les Petits Bains", with an 80 m2 pool, followed by the current 4500 m2 aqualudic centre in 2008, which receives 180,000 visitors every year. The spring supplies the centre with filtered, iron-free water at 44°C, cooled to 37°C.
The thermo-ludic centre
In a beautiful building with a larch wood structure, you can enjoy two bathing areas to ease your back, relax your legs and unwind.
Large baths area
- The Roman Trilogy, comprising a frigidarium to tone the body, a tepidarium to relax and warm up, and a very hot caldarium for absolute relaxation.
- The Hammam purifies the body.
- Mists rich in mineral salts to help retain water in the skin and improve hydration.
- The Amphora Basin with tempered water.
- The Musical Grotto, which combines music, colours and warm water for an experience you'll never forget. All you have to do is lie on your back with the water over your ears.
- The mineral pool with hydromassage jets.
- Warm marbles to release energy points, improve blood circulation and combat water retention. Perfect after a day of sport.
- The outdoor pool to enjoy the panoramic view of the Parc des Ecrins, immersed in warm water with snow all around in winter. There are also jacuzzis, an aquabed and a counter-current river.
Espace Romano Irlandais This area is reserved for adults for deep relaxation of body and mind. It has 3 saunas, two steam rooms, a Vaucluse waterfall with water at 44°C for shoulder relaxation, and an outdoor jacuzzi on the terrace.
Practical information
Men must wear lycra swimming trunks or boxer shorts.
It is not compulsory to wear a cap, but for reasons of hygiene, long hair must be tied back.
Towels and flip-flops must remain in the locker.
The use of mobile phones is prohibited.
Children under the age of 15 are not permitted in the hammam.
Treatments and messages
In the beauty area, you can take care of your body with facial treatments to purify, detoxify, moisturise and tone your skin according to its needs. You can also enjoy treatments such as body scrubs, body wraps, relaxing massages, toning massages, candle massages and hot stone massages, both solo and for two. A moment just for you, so you can leave feeling soothed and relaxed.
The boutique
A range of cosmetics, swimwear and accessories.
🍴The restaurant
Where you can enjoy a meal based on regional produce. In the afternoon you can always have sweet or savoury snacks or just a drink. Expect to pay between €15 and €20 for a dish.
⏰ Opening times
Open every day from 10am to 9pm during the winter and summer seasons.
Out of season times may vary.
👛 Prices
For a 2-hour visit to the Grands Bains:
Adults: €21.50
Children aged 3 to 13: €11.50 (under adult supervision)
Toddlers aged 9 months to 2 years: €6 (only at 10am and 12pm, they are not allowed outside these times)
Reduced rates for two adults or more and for families.
A little extra: a visit to the Rotonde
The Rotonde, also known as the drinkers' pavilion, is a building built around the spring to treat digestive and urinary problems. There was also a bath and shower area to treat rheumatism and skin problems.
Free guided tours are organised on the theme of water with heritage guide Renaud Philippe.
📍⏰ Location and times:
Every Tuesday afternoon at 2pm. Meeting point in front of Monêtier-les-Bains town hall.
Where to stay in Monêtier-les-Bains?
Serre Chevalier
Gite l'Aiguillette du Lauzet
During your stay at Gite l'Aiguillette du Lauzet, you can enjoy a variety of activities in and around Monêtier-les-Bains, including skiing and cycling.
