Val-d’Isère
Val d’Isère is at the heart of one of the world’s top ski areas and is a byword for excellence among ski champions for its World Cup racing pedigree, part of a long and proud sporting history which in 1992 saw it host the Olympic Games downhill.
With 300km of slopes, served by 75 lifts, the combined ski area that it shares with neighbouring Tignes stretches from an altitude of 1,550m to 3,450m.
Accomplished skiers can test themselves on the steep Face de Bellevarde and explore outstanding off-piste opportunities.
Beginners can find their ski legs on gentle nursery slopes at the top of Solaise, before progressing to easy blue runs nearby. And back in the village, after tackling the slopes, they can choose between roaring firesides and sunny terraces.
On the Solaise and Bellevarde, young beginners can explore the nursery slopes at altitude in the Val Kids area and on the Trace du Gypaète adventure slope ((with a vulture-themed ski-through tunnel, a giant feather that can be played like a xylophone, a slalom and much more)), which make learning to ski more fun while also teaching them about the mountain environment.
The Val Aventure tree top adventure course is a fun après ski activity that proves hugely popular with families. For something a little more gentle, pop along to the Ferme de l’Adroit, where you meet the dairy cows and taste some cheese.
Holidaymakers looking for something a little difference could enjoy ice floating (in a special wet suit) on Lake Ouillette; climbing frozen waterfalls; or the Avaline Trax nighttime ski touring race with a gain of 480m.
And let your vacation go even more smoothly with the Val d’Isère Ski app, offering an easy and quick way to buy contactless lift passes. It also has geolocation of the free shuttle buses, an interactive piste map, slope opening/closing times, webcam and a live weather forecast.
Eat, Sleep, Relax
There’s an excellent range of accommodation on offer in Val d’Isère, whatever your tastes. New this winter, Airelles Val d’Isère is opening its first-ever 5-star chalet on the slopes. The 220m2 chalet has four bedrooms and offers direct access to the slopes from its spacious, south-facing terrace, complete with views of the Bellevarde.
In need of a thorough pampering? Head to at Le Yule 5-star, which features luxury products from Biologique Recherche & Wesak Paris, or enjoy Reset, a new wellness and serenity programme at the Refuge de Solaise, perched at an altitude of 2,251m.
On the foodie front, with views of the frozen lake, L’Ouillette restaurant is opening its terrace after a full refurbishment. Pop in for a snack at the cafeteria or visit the restaurant serving flame-grilled dishes, savoury pancakes and daily specials. Les Tontons, with its cosy atmosphere and vintage vibes, specialises in barbecued food and its south-facing terrace makes it the ideal spot for lunch at the foot of the slopes. Or visit in the evening and enjoy a drink and entertainment at the Bar des Tontons. A new restaurant in the village centre, L’Alpin, serves traditional homemade cuisine in a cosy, authentic mountain chalet, for the ultimate in rustic charm.
Environment
Of course, Val d’Isère is a keen protector of the environment, as evidenced by its Flocon Vert. Slope grooming machines and the free buses run on recycled biofuel, there are protected zones for the black grouse and an environmental observatory keeps an eye on the most fragile elements of nature.
Events in 2024
Jan 15-18 and Mar 11-14: Classicaval – celebrating its 30th anniversary, this classical music festival comes in two parts.
Apr 1-5: La Scara – international alpine skiing competition for the juniors.
Apr 15-18: International Adventure & Discovery Film Festival Cultural – presented by French writer Sylvain Tesson
At a glance
Ski until May 5
300km of slopes, 60% above an altitude of 2,200m