Skip to main content

Bilberries - Myrtilles

Small wild blueberries

featured in Local Produce Updated

Alpine forests are covered in bilberry bushes which, in the summer, yield lots of fruit. Bilberries are slightly tangier and darker than its bigger relative, the blueberry, and they are used in a multitude of dishes in the French mountain regions.

The 'tarte aux myrtilles' is perhaps the most famous local recipe made using these wild blueberries. It is made only with a simple tart crust on top of which sit the bilberries dusted with powder sugar. But you can also find bilberry jam, ice cream, crèpes...

Even if you can find bilberries everywhere when you go for a hike in the Alps, you need to take care when picking them as in some National Parks foraging is forbidden. They can also be confused with a similar berry growing in the area, which should be eaten with caution. So your best bet is just ordering a 'tarte aux myrtilles' for dessert at your favourite restaurant in resort.

News

  • Latest gear - best new clothing for spring 2019

    Hiking gear guide

  • Latest gear - Mountain running equipment for 2019

    Trail running gear guide

  • Latest gear - Camping equipment for summer 2019

    Mountain camping equipment guide

  • a mountain biker jumping in the air

    Mountain bike gear guide

  • Val Thorens in December 2019 – What weather to expect & what to do

    December in Val Thorens: What's on and weather

  • Val Thorens in January 2020 - What weather to expect & what to do

    January in Val Thorens: What's on and weather

Events

  • An image of a firework display

    Bastille Day

  • Soapbox racing in Val Thorens

    Soapbox race

  • Criterium Dauphine final climb

    Cycle race the Belleville climb

  • VT Summit Games, Val Thorens

    VT Summit Games

  • The Follies of Val Thorens

    The Follies of Val Thorens

  • the main market square in sarlat la caneda

    European Heritage Days