Essentials
Resort Altitude
2300m
Snow Range
1300m to 3200m
The Mountain
Piste area - 600km
Black runs - 33
Red runs - 114
Blue runs - 121
Nursery slopes - 3
Mountain cafes - 43
Snow cannon - 348
Parks - 9
Pipes - 3
Transfers
Chambery - 120km - 2hrs
Geneva - 200km - 3hrs
Grenoble - 185km
Lyon - 195km - 2.5hrs
Ratings
Queues - 6
Lifts - 8
Cafes - 7
Snow - 10
Extent - 10
Transfer - 6
Charm - 4
Scenery - 6
Eating Out - 4
Apres Ski - 5
Resort Profile For Val Thorens
Val Thorens is Europe’s highest ski resort and forms the highest section of the Three Valleys ski area
Typical of a purpose built French resort, the architecture is practical and bland. However, the blandness of the buildings hides its growing reputation as a party town. Drawn by the hard core skiing and snowboarding, a mix of mainly young French, Scandinavian and British bring a lively and friendly après-ski scene. Plenty of value for money ski-in/ski-out accommodation in a huge bowl of a ski area with long runs snaking away in all directions. A great place to learn and the vast and varied ski and snowboarding terrain will keep most happy for at least a week. However, be prepared for the changeable weather conditions. High winds and poor visibility are the flip-side of such a high resort and can be extremely disconcerting for inexperienced skiers.
Resort Pros
- Variety and extent of the high altitude, snow sure ski area, plus access to the Three Valleys.
- Particularly good for intermediates.
- Comparative value for money in the Three Valleys.
- Accommodating nursery slopes.
- Plenty of ski-in, ski-out.
Resort Cons
- The high altitude equals greater exposure to bad weather days and lift closures.
- Lack of Alpine charm.
- Little to do off-slope
Best For
- Intermediates.
- Advanced skiers and Snowboarders (on and off-piste).
- Late season trips
Worst For
- Those looking for Alpine charm.
SlopeSeeker Tips
Exploit the off-piste terrain of the Orelle Valley. Head for the nearby Pointe de la Masse pistes for uncrowded skiing.