Val d’Isere is considered one of the most popular ski resorts in France and one of the best deep snow areas in the world. It is located in the French Northern Alps on the border with Italy. Thanks to its location, the season is guaranteed from the end of November to the first week of May. It benefits from the same Atlantic low-pressure areas as other French resorts, but also receives heavy snowfall from Mediterranean lows that dump their snow over the Italian Alps.
Perhaps the most beautiful ski area in the world
Between Val d’Isere and Tignes stretches the Espace Killy, named after Olympic champion and exceptional skier Jean-Claude Killy. He grew up in Val d’Isere.
The place has retained much of its original charm. It has evolved into a modern Alpine resort without breaking with traditional architecture. The town centre is characterised by wood, stone and slate roofs. The atmosphere can also be found in many of the rustic chalets and restaurants.
Thanks to the “Grand Motte” glacier, part of the ski area at an altitude of 3656 meters can be skied as early as October. The resort attracts skiers from all over the world with its combination of perfect snow conditions and charming chalets. There is a wide range of departures in the high season. At an altitude of 1850 meters, 300 kilometers of slopes are waiting to be discovered. All levels and many winter sports are taken into account: here you will find Olympic and World Cup slopes, marked and secured ski tours through the mountains, as well as mountain biking, moon bikes, golf in the snow and dog sledding.
Downhill runs for Olympic champions and newcomers – everyone will find their happiness here
In addition to the spectacular nature, there are many sports and cultural events in winter. In December, the resort’s opening weekend takes place under the name “Premières Traces”. Also in December, the who’s who of the ski world gathers to take part in the “Critérium de la 1er neige”. This is a race that has been held since 1955. It is considered the opening of the ski season in France and is part of the Ski World Cup. If you are a good skier, you can follow in the footsteps of Karl Schranz, Luc Alphand, Franck Piccard or Hermann Maier and glide down “La OK” yourself. And if you need even more of a challenge: the black slope “La face de Bellvarde” is considered a very demanding route with 1,000 meters of altitude difference. The downhill was designed by former world champion Bernhard Rüssi for the 1992 Winter Olympics.
If you like off-piste skiing, you will find ideal opportunities. The starting points of the tours are particularly easy to reach by ski lift. Also, there are many experienced guides who offer their services. Of course, skiers who are still at the beginning of their careers have also been thought of. Of the 67 slopes offered by the ski resort, 15 slopes are suitable for beginners. Pleasant for groups of different levels: many slopes end at the edge of the village and you meet again in the valley after different descents.
In mid-January, the sporting events continue with the Polo Masters. In February, the “Frost gun” event takes place and at the end of the season in April, there is a winter golf tournament. Val d’Isere has a lot to offer in terms of sport, whether as a skier or as a spectator.
Restaurants, wellness and shopping – a wide range of leisure activities
If you like it a little quieter, or need a day off, you can book hikes with snowshoes or wellness treatments. The resort has a number of luxurious spas that you can reserve for a relaxing break. Coupled with high-end boutiques to browse, a cinema, a sports centre with swimming pool, climbing wall, squash courts and gym, there is plenty to do in Val d’Isère both on and off the slopes.
The valley has a lot to offer in terms of cuisine. There are several restaurants that have been awarded a Michelin star. But even in the middle price range you will find a diverse and very high-quality offer. Some of the best restaurants are located on the slopes, a fantastic view is guaranteed. Families are, as in the entire ski area, welcome guests.
A ski resort for the whole family
Ski holidays are often a family holiday. But not all slopes are suitable for young skiers. To ensure that adults can still benefit from the large selection of challenging slopes, childcare has been considered. Of course, you can also use the time for a ski course or go out to eat a tartiflette. There is a daycare center for children aged 18 months to 3 years and another care facility for children from 3 to 13 years. Of course, there are also ski courses for the youngest members of the family. Participation is possible from the age of 3.
