Orell, the story of an incredible rise
Roots and transformations (1730–1991)
There was a time when Orelle lived to the rhythm of the seasons, the fields, and the sound of cowbells. Nestled in the heart of the Maurienne Valley, the village drew its strength from the land and from industry. At the end of the 19th century, the construction of the Prémont electrochemical factory, followed by the Bissorte dam in the 1930s, marked a first revolution: farmers became factory workers, and the mountains opened to modernity.
When the plant closed in 1991, Orelle went through difficult years… but the mountain spirit never lost its daring. And it was precisely that spirit that would change its destiny.
1996: The big turn toward tourism
The 3 Vallées Express gondola now links Orelle to Val Thorens. A technical feat, a daring gamble… and the beginning of an incredible tourism adventure.
In January 1996, Orelle turned a new page with the opening of the 3 Vallées Express gondola. In just fifteen minutes, the village became directly linked to the Val Thorens ski area — a technical feat, a visionary move, and the start of an incredible tourism adventure.
The years that followed confirmed this rise: the Peyron and Bouchet chairlifts (2001) opened new horizons, the Hameau des Eaux d’Orelle (2007) welcomed the first holiday guests, and the creation of the Tourist Office and central booking service (2008–2010) established Orelle as a destination in its own right.
Boldness and innovation (2014–2021)
Always ahead of its time, Orelle inaugurated in 2014 the Orelle Zip Line, the world’s first at such altitude.
Then, in 2021, a brand-new gondola revolutionized access to Val Thorens and the legendary Cime Caron (3,195 m): an exceptional panoramic journey from the village to the peaks in under 20 minutes.
In 2022, a brand-new Tourist Office opens its doors: larger, more welcoming, and decidedly modern — a true reflection of the resort’s growth.
2024–2025: Orelle writes a new chapter
In November 2024, Orelle took another bold step with the opening of HOB Orelle, a warm and modern concept just a few meters from the gondola. Part hotel, part hostel, and part restaurant, it’s a vibrant and friendly space designed for every kind of traveler — from families to solo adventurers.
And in 2025, the village continues its evolution: a covered car park with 740 new spaces (in addition to the existing 300) makes access easier, while a new shuttle service from Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne train station connects Orelle effortlessly to the rest of the valley.
Summer: a mountain both accessible… and contemplative
Orelle becomes the perfect meeting point for cycling enthusiasts. The village lies at the heart of a 90-kilometre radius that includes many legendary mountain passes made famous by the Tour de France — such as the Galibier, La Madeleine, La Croix de Fer, the Iseran, the Glandon and the Mont-Cenis — all located in the Maurienne Valley, which proudly calls itself the world’s largest cycling area.
On site, marked MTB and e-MTB trails allow riders to explore the village and its surrounding heights.
Orelle’s remarkable natural heritage also delights hiking lovers. Numerous signposted trails reveal the area’s most beautiful treasures: the Bissorte Dam, the Marches Refuge, the Chapel of Notre-Dame des Anges, the Pierre aux Pieds...
At Plan Bouchet, a new development project is currently being studied: the creation of a rest and contemplation area nestled in the alpine meadows at 2,350 m of altitude. The idea is to offer a peaceful place for observation, relaxation, and reconnection with nature — a true haven of serenity designed for hikers and visitors seeking silence, scenery, and a breath of fresh mountain air.
A human and alpine adventure
From working village to inspiring mountain resort, Orelle has never stopped reinventing itself. Proud, daring, and deeply authentic, it continues to write its story — always with its eyes set on the summits.
