1er Open International d’Échecs des Menuires will take place from July 11 – 18, 2026, in Les Menuires, France. This is a chess tournament in Les Menuires, France, in 2026.

The tournament brings classical chess to the French Alps during a full summer week. Moreover, it offers three parallel 9-round tournaments for different FIDE rating levels.

In addition, the event combines serious-rated chess with a mountain resort setting in the Belleville Valley. Therefore, players can plan both competitive games and a memorable summer stay in Les Menuires.

♟️ Event Details

⏱️ Time Control & Pairings

Classical Format

All three tournaments use the same classical time control. Players receive 90 minutes for the first 40 moves, plus 30 minutes for the rest of the game.

In addition, each move adds a 30-second increment. Therefore, the event gives players enough time for serious calculation and long classical games.

Pairings and Tournament System

The Masters, Accession, and Avenir tournaments each use a 9-round Swiss System. Moreover, all three events follow the same round schedule.

This structure makes planning easier for players, families, and coaches. As a result, participants in different groups can follow one shared tournament rhythm throughout the week.

💰 Prize Fund

Prize Fund Overview

The total prize fund is €25,000, approx. $29,400. The prize program includes main ranking prizes, women’s prizes, and additional age and rating category prizes.

The tables below show the confirmed main and women’s prize amounts. In addition, each tournament includes category prizes by age and Elo group.

Masters Prizes

Accession Prizes

Avenir Prizes

🏆 Sections / Groups

Masters Tournament

The Masters tournament is the strongest section. Therefore, it suits titled players, experienced competitors, and players who want a higher-rated field.

Accession Tournament

The Accession tournament gives club players a balanced middle section. Moreover, its rating range creates a strong bridge between the Masters and Avenir groups.

Avenir Tournament

The Avenir tournament is designed for lower-rated players. In addition, it gives developing competitors a clear section with its own prize list.

📅 Schedule

Opening Weekend

Main Rounds

Prize Ceremony

The schedule includes one double-round day on July 13. Therefore, players should plan meals, rest, and preparation carefully for that day.

📝 Registration

Registration Details

Players should choose the correct tournament according to their rating. In addition, they should complete online payment to confirm registration.

Because increased rates apply after May 31, early registration gives players the best listed price. Moreover, early planning can help with accommodation in the resort.

🧑‍💼 Organizer

Échecs Club de Corbas Mions organizes the 1er Open International d’Échecs des Menuires in collaboration with the Les Menuires resort. As a result, the event combines experienced chess organization with a strong alpine destination.

Moreover, the three-section structure helps players find a suitable competitive level. The shared schedule also makes the event practical for families, coaches, and groups with players in different sections.

Email: openechecsmenuires@gmail.com

📍 Venue

Playing Hall

Le Break des Menuires – Centre Sportif — 964 Avenue de la Croisette, 73440 Les Belleville, France

Venue Notes

The tournament takes place at Le Break des Menuires – Centre Sportif in the Les Menuires resort area. Therefore, players should use the Croisette address when planning local arrival.

The venue sits in the Belleville Valley, in the French Alps. As a result, players can stay close to resort services, summer activities, restaurants, and accommodation options.

🏨 Accommodation

Resort Accommodation

Les Menuires offers official resort accommodation through its reservation service. Therefore, players can compare apartments, residences, hotels, clubs, chalets, and other stay options in one place.

The tournament week also includes a practical resort activity offer. Participants and accompanying guests can get 7 days of unlimited access to swimming pools, Fun Park, outdoor trampolines, and archery for €35 per person.

CGH Residences Offer

Players can use the promotion code ECHEC26 for selected CGH residences near the tournament area.

These discounts can be combined with other current offers. Therefore, players should check availability early if they want to stay near the playing venue.

✈️ How to Get There

Travel to Les Menuires

Les Menuires is located in the Northern Alps, in the Savoie department. The nearest train station is Moûtiers Salins Brides-Les-Bains, about 27 km from the resort.

From Moûtiers, players can continue to Les Menuires by coach transfer, taxi, or rental vehicle. In addition, regular bus services connect the resort with nearby stations and airports.

Local Planning

Once players arrive in Les Menuires, free shuttle services help connect resort districts and villages in the valley. Moreover, free uncovered parking is available in all resort areas.

Players arriving by car should plan mountain-road travel carefully. However, after reaching the resort, many services remain close to the playing venue.

ℹ️ Other Information

Summer Activities

The tournament takes place during the summer season in the French Alps. Therefore, players and accompanying guests can combine chess with resort activities, mountain views, and family-friendly leisure options.

The €35 activity offer can be especially useful for families. In addition, it gives accompanying guests more options during long playing days.

Practical Notes

All three tournaments follow the same 9-round timetable. This makes the week easier to manage for groups with players in different sections.

Players should check their rating level before selecting Masters, Accession, or Avenir. Finally, Les Menuires offers a rare mix of classical chess, alpine travel, and a full summer tournament atmosphere.