La Bergerie de Plan-Praz
La Bergerie de Plan-Praz is a mountain restaurant at Planpraz (Brévent) above Chamonix, with hearty Savoyard classics, terrace seating and big valley views—reachable by cable car. Book ahead. Book ahead in peak season.
Last updated: 2025-12-23
- Website: https://www.maisondesdrus.com/fr/etablissement/la-bergerie-de-planpraz-ete/
- Phone: +33 4 50 53 05 42
Key takeaways
- Solid pick for classic Savoyard flavours in Chamonix.
- Mountain location—check lift/cable car opening times and weather.
- Check the latest menu and opening times before you go (seasonality is common in the valley).
- Check the latest menu and opening times before you go (seasonality is common in the valley).
Quick answer
La Bergerie de Plan-Praz is a mountain restaurant at Planpraz (Brévent) above Chamonix, with hearty Savoyard classics, terrace seating and big valley views—reachable by cable car. Book ahead. Book ahead in peak season.
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Overview
La Bergerie de Plan-Praz is a destination in itself for mountain lovers – a
charming chalet restaurant situated at 2,000 meters, directly opposite Mont Blanc across the valley. At
the mid-station of Brévent (Planpraz), it’s easily reached by gondola from Chamonix yet feels delightfully
remote due to its lofty position. “Bergerie” means shepherd’s hut, and indeed the building’s stone and
timber construction evokes an old alpine farm, though it’s been expanded and updated to welcome
hungry skiers and hikers. The restaurant has two parts: an upstairs full-service dining room and large
terrace (for leisurely lunches with table service), and a casual self-service cafeteria on the lower level (for
those who want a quick sandwich or fries before heading back to the slopes) 36 . The main draw here –
aside from hearty food – is the absolutely stunning view: the terrace faces due south with a sprawling
vista of the Mont Blanc massif. On a clear day, you’ll be treated to a panorama of snowy peaks and the
Chamonix valley far below, all while enjoying a meal in the sun. The combination of authentic alpine
atmosphere and accessibility (via lift) makes La Bergerie very popular, so it’s common to see both
serious skiers in their gear and foot-traffic visitors in regular attire dining side by side. It’s a perfect spot
for a mountain lunch whether you’ve been skiing all morning or just came up for the views.
Cuisine & Specialties
The menu at La Bergerie celebrates Savoyard and classic French mountain cuisine 37 . One of their
signatures is anything from the wood-fired grill: the restaurant has an open fireplace grill that imparts a
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lovely smoky flavor to meats. Côte de bœuf (bone-in rib steak) for two is a highlight – grilled to order
and often served with gratin dauphinois (creamy potato bake) and vegetables. Individual steaks, grilled
lamb chops, or herbed chicken supremes might also be on offer. Then, of course, the Savoyard
staples: tartiflette (potato, bacon and reblochon casserole) is on the menu and hard to resist when
dining al fresco in the snow. Fondue is available too – and there are few greater pleasures than dipping
bread into hot cheese while mountains loom around you (they’ll serve it on the terrace if you’re brave
about potential cooling from the breeze, otherwise indoors is cozier for that). Raclette (melt-your-own
cheese with potatoes and charcuterie) is sometimes featured as a special, though it’s more logistically
challenging on the mountain. Other items include French onion soup with crusty cheese gratin on top,
savoie salad (often with local cheese, ham, walnuts), and daily specials that could range from a hearty
beef bourguignon to savoie sausages in white wine. For lighter appetites or kids, they have options
like omelettes, croûte au fromage (cheese on toast with wine, a local dish), or simple pasta. The
downstairs self-service offers quicker bites: expect things like soup, paninis, fries, crepes and drinks –
good if you’re in a hurry to get back on the ski slopes. Portions upstairs are generous, which is
appreciated after mountain exertion. Dessert should not be overlooked: tarte aux myrtilles (blueberry
tart) made with local berries is a frequent offering, as is apple crumble with ice cream or a classic
crème brûlée. Many wash it all down with a carafe of local Apremont white wine or a pint of beer. They
also do vin chaud (hot spiced wine) and have espresso machines for that post-lunch caffeine before you
hit the slopes again.
Atmosphere & Tips
La Bergerie’s interior is like a storybook chalet: exposed wooden beams, hearty wooden tables,
alpine decor like old skis or cowbells on the walls, and a central fireplace that crackles with grilling
meats and adds warmth 36 . It can be bustling at peak lunch hour (12:30–2 PM), with the clatter of ski
boots on the floor and lively chatter in multiple languages (the international ski crowd). Yet it generally
feels relaxed – people linger over their genepi digestif and maybe loosen a couple layers of ski jacket as
they thaw out and unwind. The staff wear traditional attire (often a Savoyard-style vest or apron) which
adds to the charm, and despite often being very busy, they tend to be cheerful and efficient. They’re
used to dealing with a packed house, so service is swift by French standards, aiming to get you fed and
happy so you can either continue your ski day or catch that gondola down. Speaking of, it’s good to plan
your timing; if you have a return lift to catch, know the last gondola down times (in winter around 4 or
4:30 PM usually) and give yourself enough cushion. It’s easy to lose track of time sipping wine on the
terrace in the sun! On bluebird days (clear skies), the terrace is absolutely prime – get there a bit early
to snag a table outside because everyone will want to sit there. They have sheepskin throws and heat
lamps to make it comfortable even if it’s chilly, and the view… well, it’s million-dollar. In summer, that
terrace is equally wonderful for hikers coming up – you might see paragliders launching from Planpraz
while you dine, adding entertainment. Reservations are highly recommended for the full-service
restaurant, especially in winter; without one, you might still get a seat but likely indoors or you may
wait. If no reservation, arriving on the early side (11:45 AM or so) can help. The self-service downstairs
doesn’t take reservations and is first-come, first-served, which is fine for quick bites. Prices for the full-
service are a bit above town restaurants due to the logistics and location, but most find it well worth it
for the experience. Ultimately, La Bergerie offers perhaps the quintessential Chamonix mountain dining
moment: savory regional food enjoyed at altitude, with Mont Blanc practically at your table – an
experience that feeds both body and soul.
Getting there
La Bergerie de Plan-Praz is accessed via the Brévent/Planpraz cable car. Check lift opening times (seasonal) before you head up.
Map: Open La Bergerie de Plan-Praz on Google Maps
Need an airport transfer?
If you’re arriving via Geneva Airport, we can help you get to resort quickly and comfortably. See our Geneva to Chamonix Transfer options.
FAQs
Do I need to book in advance?
It depends on the time and season. La Bergerie de Plan-Praz is busiest in winter and peak summer, so booking is a good idea for evening meals.
Is it suitable for families and children?
La Bergerie de Plan-Praz can still work for families, but the atmosphere may be quieter or more adult-focused at peak dinner times.
Are there vegetarian options?
Usually yes, but the selection varies. For dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free), it’s best to check the menu or call ahead.
How do I get there?
La Bergerie de Plan-Praz is reached via the Brévent/Planpraz cable car. In winter and summer, check lift opening times before you go.
