Val d'Isere is one of those resorts that every skier needs to visit at some point. The main reason being that it ticks almost every box going! The ski area is endless, the town has it all and there are so many incredible options for ski instructors, nannies, transfer drivers, restaurants, après ski bars and of course 5 star accommodation!
1. The snow!
Perhaps you’ve not heard but let us tell you if you haven’t that the snow has returned to Val d’Isere in abundance this year – already! And we are Snow excited (sorry…) and cannot wait to get out there. At 1850m above sea level the town is already rather high and given that the top slopes reach up to 3456m, Val d'Isere is a resort to go to for almost guaranteed snow. Its conditions are so good that the official season stretches all the way through to May!
2. Great Terrain
Val d’Isere can definitely boast when it comes to terrain. Nestled in the mighty Espace Killy area this resort has 300km of pistes, sharing them and it’s 90+ lifts with neighbouring Tignes. This area will satisfy all skiers, from the apprehensive beginner right through to powder veterans. Val d’Isere is also renowned for its off-piste, with lifts serving some of the off piste runs well and there is so much space to roam and explore on the Espace Killy that you will never get bored.
3. A Town With It All
Val d’Isere has plenty to offer down in the town as well; particularly in the Old Town where the architecture will satisfy anyone wanting a picture perfect resort. With beautiful chalets, an abundance of shops and boutiques, delicious restaurants and a whole host of activities, this resort casts a magical Alpine spell over its visitors who often find it hard to leave.
4. Range of Accommodation
Within Val d’Isere is a wealth of accommodation to choose from; the magnificent Marco Polo (sleeps 10+4) and if we tell you there’s a cinema screen in the swimming pool you’ll begin to get the gist, to stunning Le Lievre Blanc, which is smaller (6+2) and perfect for a family or small group of friends, or the brand new hip Kilco Penthouse with a private swimming pool and excellent location in the center of town. Or if it’s a hotel you are looking for, we adore 5* Le Blizzard for it’s cool yet rustic vibe, many rooms recently renovated, some with fireplaces and all with private balconies.
5. Excellent Food
For the finest food Val d’Isere excels; with L’Atelier d’Edmond, a 2 Michelin starred restaurant in the village of Le Fornet serving sumptuous menus where the delights continue to surprise throughout the meal. Or try La Table de l’Ours in the Relais & Chateaux hotel Les Barmes de l'Ours for exquisite Michelin starred food and an elegant atmosphere. For family fun in the resort go for the classic at the new Fondue Factory, found in the Killy Sport museum of skis and equipment from the last 100 years – learn something new about our beloved sport and enjoy a delicious meal together!
6. Ski Schools
Being such a great resort for learning to ski there are many expert ski schools as well as instructors to push the more advanced and to challenge you either on or off the piste. We cannot recommend Progression Ski, Oxygene and New Generation enough! All three ski-schools offer highly trained professional instructors who will always push for you and your children to be the best skiers they can be by the end of the holiday and we will help you choose the perfect instructor, whether they are for a brand new beginner skier or thrill seekers looking to explore the mountain.
7. Non Skiers
Yet another benefit of Val d’Isere being such a large resort is that there are plenty of exciting and enjoyable activities for all ages off the slopes. To find adrenaline pumping sports near the town there’s ice driving in a BMW or right next to the track is an ice karting racecourse, then there’s paragliding for the equally brave or ice diving with Evolution 2. This company also offers plenty of fantastic activities, from dog sledding to helicopter rides. For something slightly less scary the Centre Aquasportif boasts a large pool with water cannons, massaging streams, a gym, spa and climbing wall to name just a few of their many activities. Or you can explore the shops and cafés of which there are many!
8. Après Ski
As well as being famed for its beauty and incredible skiing this resort has world famous après, including the renowned La Foulie Douce- with DJs, live music, lots of outrageous dancing but also a VIP area for those wanting all the fun without the hectic atmosphere that can arise... There’s also La Fruitiere for excellent food just nextdoor for perhaps a little refueling before the party begins? Then back in town, swing by MBC for some beats to dance to or Dicks Tea Bar for cocktails and a lively atmosphere!
9. Celebrations
This resort is a definite must for celebrating Christmas, New Year’s Eve or Easter. All three festivals show Val d’Isere in its best light- complete with a vibrant atmosphere and ready to give its visitors a fantastic and memorable time, whatever ages and whatever interests you have. Word on the piste is that Father Christmas is planning a visit to the town on Christmas Eve, there’s also a great parade down the main street of the town with giant ice sculptures, live music and carol concerts. On New Year’s Eve, watch the incredible firework display and join in on the street party.
10. So much choice!
Due to its size there’s so much choice for different services you might need in town. This includes private childcare; we recommend Jelly and Ice Cream, Little Chicks & T4 Nanny to take the best care of your little ones either through the day or evening care so that you can relax on your holiday. This vast choice of Val d’Isere also includes transfers to and from the airport or train station, of which we endorse Alpes Limousine and Snow Drone, the latter offering WiFi whilst on the journey and 2 iPads with a film selection to keep all entertained, it’s the small things that count!
If you're tempted by a trip to Val d'Isere this winter, give us a call on 01993 899 420 or enquire here for more.