val d’Isère

## Overview This public drinking spring is located in Val d'Isère, a renowned alpine village nestled at approximately 1,850 meters (6,070 feet) in the Tarentaise Valley of the French Alps, in the Savoie department of southeastern France. Situated at GPS coordinates 45.447257, 6.977203, this spring draws from the high-altitude glacial and snowmelt waters that have filtered through the ancient crystalline rock formations of the Vanoise massif. Val d'Isère has a long history as a mountain settlement, with records dating back to the 17th century, and the village has traditionally relied on natural alpine springs for its water supply. The surrounding geology — primarily schist and gneiss bedrock — naturally filters snowmelt and rainwater over extended periods, and alpine springs in this region have historically been prized for their purity and mineral content. This particular spring sits within one of France's most celebrated mountain landscapes, adjacent to the Vanoise National Park, France's first national park established in 1963. As with all natural water sources, while this spring has historically been used as a public drinking water source, visitors should be aware that water quality can vary with seasonal conditions, particularly during spring snowmelt and after heavy rainfall. ## Directions 1. From Bourg-Saint-Maurice, take the D902 road southeast toward Val d'Isère (approximately 30 km / 19 miles). 2. Follow the winding mountain road through the Gorge de Malpasset and past the villages of Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise and La Daille. 3. Continue into the center of Val d'Isère. 4. The spring is located near the coordinates 45.447257, 6.977203 — use GPS navigation to pinpoint the exact location within or near the village center. *Note: The D902 is a well-maintained mountain road, but winter conditions (typically November through April) may require snow tires or chains. Road closures are possible during severe weather.* ## What to Expect Val d'Isère sits in a dramatic high-alpine setting surrounded by peaks exceeding 3,000 meters. The spring is accessible within or near the village, making it relatively easy to reach compared to many backcountry alpine sources. Visitors can expect cold, clear water characteristic of high-altitude alpine springs — water temperatures in this region typically remain very cold year-round, often between 4–8°C (39–46°F). The village itself is a charming blend of traditional Savoyard stone-and-wood architecture and modern alpine resort infrastructure. Val d'Isère is world-famous as a ski destination (it co-hosted the 1992 Winter Olympics with Albertville), but in summer the area transforms into a paradise for hikers, trail runners, and nature enthusiasts. The Vanoise National Park, accessible from the village, offers extensive trail networks through alpine meadows, past glacial lakes, and into high mountain terrain where ibex and chamois are commonly spotted. The spring is publicly accessible, and the surrounding area offers plenty of amenities including restaurants, shops, and parking. Whether you're passing through on a road trip along the Route des Grandes Alpes or spending time exploring the Tarentaise Valley, this alpine spring is a refreshing stop in one of France's most spectacular mountain settings.