Discovered in the 12th century, Valmeinier was practically self-sufficient with most of its inhabitants living off the land until the 17th century.
At this time they discovered a high quality anthracite which they decided to mine, hence Valmeinier got its name (Val des mines = the valley of the mines).
During the French Revolution the village was pillaged and burned, causing its economic decline. Between 1848 and 1924 the number of inhabitants remained constant (around 820). Bolstered by the industrialisation of the Maurienne Valley, agriculture and mining developed as the two main economic activities.
Cereals (corn, wheat and rye) were grown up to 1,500 metres. Families would divide the work, with some members reaping in summer and harvesting in September or October while other members would take the livestock up to the high mountain pastures of Les Vallons or Notre-Dame-des-Neiges in May, only coming down in October. This way of life continued till the end of the 1960s and the end of traditional farming. The steep decline in agriculture that started in 1945 caused a massive exodus to the valley and by the end of the 1970s there were less than 80 permanent inhabitants in Valmeinier. There are currently about 400 permanent residents.
During the winter season, some farmers worked as chimney-sweeps, operating in pairs, mainly in the Paris area and in Brittanny.
A full account of the history of Valmeinier may be found in "Valmeinier d'hier à aujourd'hui" on sale in local bookshops.
Modern times
The first ski lift was built in 1973, at L'Arméra, connecting to the Valloire ski area. The village at 1,500 m started to develop with the arrival of various holiday villages (Renouveau and LVT Chemins).
In 1986, the resort at 1,800 m was launched and the Gros Crey ski area equipped with lifts. At this point Valmeinier had 3,200 tourist beds.
In 1997, the local authorities took over the running of the lifts and decided, in agreement with the council, to undertake major restructuring. The aim is to give the ski area additional resources and give new impetus to the resort's development.
Since 1999 and the arrival of Pierre et Vacances, the residence has offered accommodation in top quality holiday residences. Every year has brought further improvements to the ski area and the summer amenities.
The last phase of work (underway) covers various essential amenities (cinema, covered car parks, bowling alley, entertainment centre, etc.) due to open next Christmas.
|
Top 