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Are you looking for a more authentic alpine experience? A little village nestled away in the French Alps with unique restaurants and charming chalets? Vallandry has got you covered. The resort itself is overshadowed by its neighbours, Les Arcs & La Plagne, meaning its a haven for anyone looking for a relaxing ski holiday. The resort is a working farming village in the summer and the locals take pride in the town’s quirks and beauty. Every tree you pass is decorated in lights and every piste is maintained to the highest standards. If you’re not already sold, here are 5 reasons to go skiing in Vallandry.
5 Reasons to Go Skiing in Vallandry
1. It’s easy to get to
Vallandry is linked to the Paradiski ski area which has around 425 km of piste to explore. The resort usually opens in early December and will be in tip-top condition (it always is). Vallandry is easy to get to as the Eurostar goes straight from London to Bourg-St-Maurice or change and go to Landry. It’s only a short taxi ride up the hill to your accommodation. If you prefer to fly then Lyon & Geneva airports are only 2 hours away whilst Chambéry is only 1hour 15mins. You can easily pick up a transfer to take you to Vallandry.
The beautiful alpine village caters for everyone, whether you want to stay in a high-end all-inclusive chalet or want to stay in the carpark in your camper van. You are welcome in Vallandry, and there are facilities for you. This is just another reason to go skiing in Vallandry this year.
2. It’s quiet
Vallandry is linked to the huge Paradiski ski area, which means that the mountain never feels crowded. With such high tech lifts and organised pistes, the flow of skiers and boarders around the mountain makes for less queuing and a good time. In Vallandry itself, there are only 9 lifts, 1 green slope (it’s over 7km long don’t worry), 13 blue slopes, 9 red slopes and 2 black slopes.
Vallandry and its neighbouring village of Peisey are intimate uncrowded ski areas tucked away in the woods. The forest shelters the resort and the trees provide good skiing for a day of low visibility or high winds. If you ever fancy a break the best place to eat is La Bergerie de Raphael, which serves up traditional French cuisine. Basically as much cheese as you can consume! If you want a quick pit stop on the slopes then head to Aux Enfants Terrible. It’s located just below the top of the Vallandry lift which is ideal for pedestrians wishing to join their skiing friends at the pub for lunch or après ski.
3. The resort sits at a high altitude
The Paradiski area guarantees the best snow conditions from December- April as over 70% of the ski runs are above 2000m. Vallandry has also spent out to have one of the world’s most modern artificial snow systems meaning it is a no-brainer for a fail-safe ski holiday. As the pistes are so high up, you get to enjoy the stunning panoramas that come with being at altitude. Vallandry offers picture-perfect views of Mont Blanc and the Pierra Menta.
4. There is plenty of backcountry/off-piste
Vallandry is so beautiful, with what we would describe as a charming, alpine, family-orientated resort. Vallandry is a great place for the whole family to ski because it has something for everyone. We have a ski school in Vallandry which is perfect for beginners and intermediates. The class sizes are small, the pistes are empty and the conditions are always pristine. Our experienced instructors will show you how to improve your technique to nail steeper terrain and to feel confident in busier resorts.
Alternatively, on a powder day, we suggest you head for the trees. Let’s just say- the trees are the only place to be! You can create your own mini-adventure, cruising through the fluffy snow zipping through the trees with your friends. The huge forest protects the resort from the wind and low visibility so there is always some riding to enjoy, whatever the weather.
5. There is something for everyone
We understand that nowadays a ski holiday isn’t just about skiing. We want to do more and really immerse ourselves in a different culture and way of life. Vallandry undoubtedly has epic skiing including a boardercross course, mogul field and a snow park for kids – but that’s not all.
There is a substantial Nordic ski area so if you fancy having a go at cross country skiing (it can be quite a laugh if you’re not very coordinated!) There is an extreme ice climbing waterfall in which you can practice your ice axe skills on. Alternatively, you can have a go at snow mountain biking for a rush of adrenaline. If you’re looking for a more relaxing time away in Vallandry, then you can head to the spa, indoor swimming pools, the cinema, the book shop or a cozy bar in town. There is also an ice rink, paragliding sessions, and dog-sledding. The list is endless, making it an ideal place for families to retreat for their mountain getaway.
Après Ski in Vallandry is not as lively as Les Arcs or La Plagne but makes up for it with its laid back vibe. At the end of the day what better way than to catch up with your friends, listen to some awesome live music and have a boogie if you wish.
