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As the highest ski resort in Europe, Val Thorens in Les 3 Vallées is a true paradise for snow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner just starting your skiing journey, this Alpine gem has something for everyone. Let’s dive straight into our ultimate guide to skiing in Val Thorens.
The Val Thorens Valley
Val Thorens is Europe’s highest ski resort. Located in the renowned Les 3 Vallées in the French Alps. This contemporary ski paradise offers a unique experience for every winter sports enthusiast. The resort sits at an impressive 2,300 metres altitude, ensuring reliable snowfall throughout the season, typically from mid-November to mid-May.
Val Thorens is a more budget-friendly skiing option than its fellow Les 3 Vallées resorts, Meribel and Courchevel. While all three resorts offer high-quality skiing, the costs associated with a stay in Val Thorens are generally more reasonable. Making it an ideal choice for those seeking a high-quality skiing experience that doesn’t break the bank. Despite its more economical pricing, Val Thorens doesn’t compromise on offering vast and diverse ski terrains, a lively atmosphere, and stunning panoramic views, making it an outstanding choice for a ski holiday within Les 3 Vallées.
Where to Ski in Val Thorens
The best pistes for beginners
Val Thorens offers excellent slopes for beginners to find their snow legs.
Plein Sud: Head to the Plein Sud area, where you’ll discover wide, gentle slopes perfect for practising your turns. There’s even a great « hole in the wall » burger place on the side of the slopes, ideal for satisfying that mid-ski day hunger.
Flocons: The Flocons run, Combe-de-Thorens and Roc ski runs are connected green slopes designed specifically for beginners, offering a safe and controlled environment to learn the basics.
The best pistes for intermediate skiers
For those looking to progress their skills, Val Thorens has a multitude of intermediate slopes that will keep the excitable skier entertained.
Péclet Ski Zone: Situated just beneath the Glacier de Péclet, this area features diverse blue and red trails tailored for various skill levels. It’s a haven for intermediate skiers, offering excellent connectivity to the entirety of Val Thorens. It’s a perfect location for groups with beginner-level members honing their skills in the nearby Plein Sud area. You can indulge in thrilling skiing and periodically swing in to check on your group and take photos. This spot has panoramic views down the valley, making it a « must ski zone ».
The best pistes for advanced skiers
Val Thorens has some incredible challenges in store for advanced skiers.
Cime Caron: The Cime Caron ski area has an array of challenging red runs, perfect for experienced skiers. Take the Col de l’audzin red down to the Boismint chair, and continue lapping the area all day. After something a little more challenging? Follow the Combe de Caron for serious black run action to get your heart pumping.
The best off-piste skiing in Val Thorens
If you’re looking for some off-piste action, explore the Vallée des Avals and discover the untamed beauty of Val Thorens’ backcountry. More accessible and popular off-piste spots include the Col du Pierre Lory by the Bouchet chair. The high altitude here provides consistently fantastic snow conditions. Another popular area is close to the Cime de Caron. From the Combe de Rosael, a yellow marker indicates your transition to off-piste before you descend into the powder.
As always with off-piste spots, given the high risk of avalanches, it is advisable to navigate skiing any off-piste with a guide. Check out our New Generation Ski and Snowboard guide to ensure you’re safe and sound whilst exploring exciting terrain.
The best après ski activities in Val Thorens
After an exhilarating day on the slopes, unwinding and indulging in some après-ski activities is key. Val Thorens offers a fantastic mix of bars and non-drinking options to suit everyone.
La Folie Douce in Val Thorens, known as ‘the dancefloor on top of the world’, is an institution in the world of après-ski, renowned for its high-altitude party atmosphere. After a day of carving the slopes, skiers and snowboarders gather here to let loose and celebrate. Please be warned, dancing on the tables is customary.
La Folie Douce manages to blend the thrill of a nightclub with the majesty of alpine scenery. All afternoon the stage is home to talented musicians and dancers performing Cabaret-style shows.
With a vast sun terrace, delicious food, and a. wide range of drinks, La Folie Douce in Val Thorens embodies an alpine celebration, delivering an après-ski experience like no other.
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Bar 360
Bar 360 is where deep snow and vibey music meet, with a similar party atmosphere to La Folie Douce. Start lounging from 2 PM, and as the afternoon goes on and the sun dips, the tunes get louder and will transport you to a buzzing high-altitude après party. Bring your thermals, as you’ll be dancing up high at 2,368 metres in a spot renowned for booking the top mountain DJs and MCs.
Wellness Area
Open from 10 AM-12 PM and 2 PM-9 PM daily, the Val Thorens Sports Centre, « Le Board, » is an impressive hub of sports, wellness, and relaxation. Unwind in the spa area boasting two balneotherapy pools, saunas, a hammam, a snow fountain, and more. Or treat yourself to a diverse range of signature treatments, from rejuvenating massages and scrubs to nourishing facial treatments. A massive bonus is that your treatment admission also grants you an hour’s access to the Wellness Area before your treatment time. Please note that facilities are open to over 18s only.
Dog Sledding
If you’re a nature enthusiast, thrill-seeker, snow sports lover or animal lover, dog sledding will be a captivating experience. With guidance from professional mushers (or dog drivers), you’ll ride with the dogs, learn about the sled dog world and embark on a memorable 30–35-minute ride across 5km of snowy landscapes. Each sled can accommodate up to 4 passengers (2 adults and 2 children maximum). The total experience lasts around an hour, with four-time slots available daily. Please note that this memorable adventure starts at the Plan de l’Eau in Les Menuires, approximately a 15-minute drive from Val Thoren’s centre and is available to book during the winter season until late April.
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The Three best restaurants in Val Thorens
The majority of Val Thorens’ dining establishments are conveniently concentrated in the Rue de Caron, Rue du Soleil and Péclet areas. Thanks to its traditionally young clientele, the resort features ample affordable and self-service dining options in the town and on the mountain. With this being said, more and more fine dining spots are appearing, with Michelin-starred experiences now available.
Les Explorateurs at Hotel Pashmina €€€€
Situated at 2,345 metres in the striking Hotel Pashmina, this elevated dining destination is worth the ascent. Chef Josselin Jeanblanc, originally from the Jura mountains, brings his culinary prowess to the Alps, crafting meals with only the finest ingredients from across France. The menu echoes the chef’s remarkable technical brilliance and determination to create a distinctive gastronomic experience that transcends the norm of luxury hotel dining in Val Thorens.
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Steakhouse Club 72 Val Thorens €€€
Club 72 SteakHouse in Val Thorens is the place to go for steak in Val Thorens. With a lively atmosphere and a bubbly staff, it stands out among the local restaurants. Their selection of steak cuts is impressive, catering to different tastes. It’s an interactive experience, as you would expect from a steakhouse, where the staff explain the cuts of meat before you choose your food. Comfortable seating, including cosy booths, complements the delicious meals. Frequented by many, Club 72 SteakHouse is the go-to spot for guests planning to enjoy a meaty meal in Val Thorens, Les 3 Vallées.
La Ferme de Rosalie €€
La Ferme de Rosalie offers an array of Savoyard specialities, pizzas, and more, all set in an authentic mountain style. Located near the Plein Sud ski area, this rustic restaurant showcases traditional cuisine, serving everything from tartiflette and raclette to charcuterie platters. They’re committed to freshness, quality of ingredients, and finely-crafted recipes. All are served next to a roaring fireplace that adds to the cosy atmosphere. This is a great, value-for-money spot in Val Thorens.
The three best mountain restaurants in Val Thorens
La Fruitiere Folie Douce Val Thorens €€€€
La Folie Douce in Val Thorens is more than an energetic open-air disco. It’s a fabulous dining destination. Amidst the chic eateries in Les 3 Vallées, La Fruitiere restaurant distinguishes itself with its unique and beautifully presented dishes. Ski enthusiasts often gravitate towards this location, enticed by the different food offerings that set it apart from other lunch spots in Val Thorens. The bonus of finding a lively party on the terrace after a meal heightens the excitement. It’s a visit one can’t miss when in Val Thorens. Portion sizes are just right, offering delectable bites without overwhelming those who plan to ski post-lunch.
Le Rendez Vous €€€
Le Rendez Vous is a fabulous dining destination on the side of the piste in Val Thorens, praised for its good food and quick, friendly service. On a sunny day, guests can bask in the brilliant views from the large terrace, while the interior is charming and warm when the weather comes in. This family-friendly spot is situated away from boisterous après-ski crowds and offers high-quality food (the pizza is delicious) and a diverse drinks menu.
It is conveniently positioned near ski school meeting points and the magic carpet and is also praised for its affordability. Regulars to Val Thorens find themselves returning to Le Rendez Vous for lunchtime and time again, a testament to its popularity and consistent satisfaction.
Chalet des 2 Ours €€
Accessible only on skis, Chalet des 2 Ours in Val Thorens is located in the Boismint sector. Its spacious interior offers fantastic views of the Belleville Valley, especially from the ‘conservatory’ extension. Chalet des 2 Ours prides itself on its homemade cuisine and features a large terrace, along with outdoor picnic-style tables and deckchairs.
While the name suggests otherwise, you won’t find any bears here, but you might encounter a friendly resident Malamute instead. The sunny, slope-side terrace here is an excellent value for money, must-visit spot.
The top 3 hotels in Val Thorens
Hotel Koh-I Nor €€€€
Hotel Koh-I Nor is a lavish five-star hotel at the highest point in Val Thorens. Epitomising luxury, this hotel blends refined decor with top-tier services, offering an unrivalled hospitality experience in Val Thorens.
Each of the 63 unique rooms and suites is like a personal apartment, designed with tasteful decoration and incredibly comfortable furniture. Large windows allow abundant natural light to flow throughout the hotel, illuminating its stylish interiors while showcasing majestic views of the Belleville Valley and its dramatic mountainous backdrop.
An expansive 800-square-metre spa area with two swimming pools provides the perfect sanctuary for relaxation after a day on the slopes.
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Le Sherpa €€€
Nestled in the heart of Val Thorens, Le Sherpa is a charming and traditional hotel that has been offering ski-in and ski-out accommodations since 1976. Reminiscent of a cosy Savoyard chalet, Le Sherpa emanates a warm, intimate, and friendly atmosphere that makes guests feel at home. The hotel’s exceptional services reflect four decades of hospitality expertise.
The hotel offers various room options to suit all budgets, a large sunny terrace with stunning mountain views and intimate lounge areas, all lit by fireplaces. It offers excellent value for money by providing 4-star quality service at the price of a 3-star establishment. This spot is ideal for couples, families, or small groups of friends.
Hotel Le Val Chavière €€
Are you seeking family-friendly accommodation in Val Thorens? Consider Hotel Val Chaviere, an ideal choice for those who are more budget conscious. The hotel features a solarium and a hearty breakfast to prepare you before a big day on the slopes.
Val Thorens brims with popular pubs and high-quality restaurants, all easily accessible from the hotel. Hotel Val Chaviere brings the best of Val Thorens to your doorstep, ideal for those seeking cost-effective yet quality accommodation.
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The best chalet companies in Val Thorens
Ski In Luxury in Val Thorens €€€€
Discover the pinnacle of Alpine comfort with the finest luxury chalets available for rent in Val Thorens with Ski In Luxury. Each stay is a mix of traditional Alpine architecture married with contemporary design elements.
Many of their luxury chalets feature top-notch amenities, such as private heated pools, hot tubs, saunas, home cinemas, and game rooms, to elevate the mountain getaway experience even further. Witness the beauty of Val Thorens come alive right before your eyes with Ski In Luxury.
Iglu Ski in Val Thorens €€€
Experience an unparalleled winter getaway at Iglu Ski in Val Thorens. Whether you’re a beginner enjoying the gentle nursery slopes or an expert exploring the challenging off-piste terrain, Iglu Ski places you at the heart of the action. Yet, Iglu Ski isn’t just about the prime chalet locations – it’s about the comfortable relaxation spaces, the delicious beds, the in-house spas and the hot drinks enjoyed by the roaring fireplaces. Whether you’re seeking the adrenaline rush of downhill skiing or the tranquillity of a mountain retreat, your Iglu Ski chalet in Val Thorens will offer a perfect balance.
Cimalpes in Val Thorens €€
Cimalps offers a range of apartments and chalets available in Val Thorens. Their accommodation options provide more than a few great value-for-money experiences in Val Thorens. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of a private chalet without breaking the bank. They also offer a local anchor – a team of experts that live in Val Thorens year-round to provide their expertise and fantastic guest service to ensure your stay is as seamless as possible.
The best time to go to Val Thorens
Get fresh snow
To increase your chances of experiencing pristine powder, consider planning your Val Thorens adventure between early December and March. This span traditionally boasts plentiful snowfall, ensuring top-tier conditions on the pistes. Check out this weather data resource, collected over 11 years, to give you a comprehensive overview of the snow conditions, quantity and temperate in Val Thorens over the different months. Don’t be put off by visiting later in the season, though, as even in April, spring rain often yields a fresh dusting of snow in Val Thorens.
Dodge the crowds
If you want to avoid busy pistes. It’s crucial to be aware of the peak weeks: the Christmas holidays, most of February (especially the second week), and the Easter holidays in April. For a quieter skiing experience, consider visiting Val Thorens in January or March. These months often offer a more tranquil atmosphere as they’re outside of the holiday periods, and you can enjoy shorter lift queues and uncrowded slopes, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Val Thorens fully.
Get reliable snow
Due to its high altitude, Val Thorens maintains a consistent record of impressive snowfall throughout the season. As many holidaymakers return to work or school in January, the slopes are noticeably quieter. Despite the chilly temperatures, these conditions typically result in outstanding snow quality. January also often presents crisp, clear skies bathed in plentiful sunshine, making it a true paradise for skiing enthusiasts. Trustworthy snow conditions usually continue through February and March as well. However, it’s worth noting that February tends to be particularly busy due to the UK and French school holidays, leading to a considerable influx of skiers in the mountains.
Sunny, warmer conditions
In late March and early April, the days gradually grow longer, with more sunlight and generally sunnier conditions. Whilst snow quality might fluctuate, often appearing hard in the mornings and turning slushy by afternoon, the warm weather is a real pull for holidaymakers seeking Al Fresco dining and long, delicious après skis.
Lift pass prices in Val Thorens
Please note that lift pass prices in Val Thorens will change depending on the year and time you visit. As a guide, the costs for the 2022-2023 season were as follows:
Adult (13-65 years):
1 day: 63,00 €
6 days: 306,00 €
Child (5-13 years):
1 day: 50,40 €
6 days: 244,80 €
Senior (65-75 years):
1 day: 56,70 €
6 days: 275,40 €
As the life passes are subject to change, we recommend checking with the official lift pass provider for the most up-to-date information.
Ski hire in Val Thorens
SkiSet has numerous branches scattered strategically across Val Thorens, providing an extensive variety of skiing and snowboarding gear for every age and skill level. Below are the SkiSet locations in Val Thorens:
SkiSet – Goitschel Sport 1
SkiSet – Goitschel Sport 2
SkiSet – Goitschel Sport 3
SkiSet – Goitschel Sport 4
SkiSet – Snowberry
Les 3 Vallées Official App
To make the most of your skiing experience in Val Thorens, we recommend downloading the Les 3 Vallées App. Compatible with iOS and Android devices, this easy-to-use application has many features and details to elevate your Val Thorens journey. Here’s a glimpse of what the app has in store:
- Interactive piste map: Effortlessly explore the ski zones of Courchevel, Meribel and Val Thorens.
- Lift status updates: Keep on top of the latest information regarding the operation status of the ski lifts, including any interruptions or holdups.
- Weather forecasts: Stay informed about the anticipated weather conditions to better plan your skiing sessions in Val Thorens. The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, and understanding what to expect will ensure you get the most out of your ski day.
- Resort information: Explore specifics about eateries, bars, events, hotels, chalets and more in the Val Thorens Valley.
- Friends and tracking: Synchronise with friends, record your skiing stats, and broadcast your Val Thorens escapades on social. This is a great way to see how far you’ve gone and all the pistes you’ve explored.
Make the most of your time on and off the slopes with the Les 3 Vallées App.
Journeying to Val Thorens
Getting to a resort can be a source of anxiety, particularly for first-time holidaymakers exploring the mountains. Even for the seasoned professional, staying up to date is essential. We frequently get asked about the most cost-effective, eco-conscious, and time-saving modes of transportation to the French Alps. We’ve decided to condense the vast number of travel options into three streamlined categories: cheapest, fastest and most environmentally conscious.
Please note that Rome2Rio is a helpful tool for planning lengthy trips. It offers a comprehensive overview of your route, categorising it into the ‘best’, ‘cheapest’, and ‘fastest’ options, helping you compare various routes and make the best decision.
The fastest | by plane
If everything goes as planned (no delays or traffic), air travel is the speediest way to get to Val Thorens. You can choose from four primary airports: Geneva International Airport, Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport, Chambéry Airport, and Grenoble Airport. We recommend choosing to fly in and out of Geneva or Lyon Saint-Exupéry. Despite being a little further away from the other airport choices (approximately 200 km from Val Thorens), the consistency and flight options are much more regular due to increased demand and airport size.
Snowlinx offer Private and Shared transfers from all the major Airports, Transfer Hubs and local Cities.
Val Thorens Airport Transfers | Snowlinx
There are public buses from the airport, but you’ll need to change at Moutiers, and they’re not cheap, so if there are a few of you, it’s often cheaper to share a transfer.
The train is the cheapest option from the airports, but again, this will involve several changes, and the trains are somewhat infrequent.
The cheapest | driving by car or coach
If you’re part of a group planning to bring your own skiing and snowboarding gear, driving could be an excellent option, especially if you can equip your car with a roof rack. There are many benefits of driving, including more flexible timing, extra space, and no luggage costs, and it can be notably economical if several of you are embarking on the journey together. While avoiding French toll roads can boost cost-efficiency, it’s worth noting that French motorways are well-maintained, swift, and usually experience minimal traffic (although this isn’t a guarantee).
Those travelling from the UK can travel to Calais via the Eurostar. From Calais, it’s approximately a 10-hour drive to Val Thorens. Routine ferry services also operate between Dover and Calais.
If you’re travelling solo and on a tight budget, various coach companies offer direct routes from the major UK cities to the Alps. Check out Snow Express, who run a regular coach service to Les Menuires (just a 15-minute drive from Val Thorens) every week from London Victoria Colonnades Coach Station in the winter season.
The greenest | the train
Travelling by train to the mountains is a picturesque journey and a top choice from an environmental perspective, helping to minimise your carbon footprint.
From London St Pancras International, you can take the Eurostar to Paris before switching trains to bring you closer to the resort. Depending on the season, you may need to complete the trip’s final leg via a shuttle bus or coach. For further guidance on adopting sustainable travel choices, visit the Snow Carbon website, a valuable resource to help you identify more environmentally friendly routes.
Thanks for reading
As you can see from this guide, the highest ski resort in Europe, Val Thorens, has a lot going for it. From mega-impressive views to vibrant après-ski activities and cosy accommodation options, Val Thorens offers a rich selection of skiing experiences. It’s a destination that should be on every ski lover’s list. Also, it stands out as the most budget-friendly resort in Les 3 Vallées, making it perfect for young families or youthful adventurers eager to traverse the extensive landscape of Les 3 Vallées without breaking the bank.
