At Oxford Ski Company, we pride ourselves on having first-hand experience and knowledge of the chalets, hotels, and resorts we feature. We are a close-knit team who are dedicated and passionate about what we do.
Within this series, we’re highlighting each of our specialists across the team as we dive into their knowledge of some of our most popular resorts across the world.
I’ve been travelling to the mountains since I was just four years old, including many different resorts across France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Canada, and indeed Andorra. Over 34 years, I’ve experienced almost every type of snow holiday there is and it’s the unrivalled beauty of the landscape and the detachment from the everyday that keeps me returning to the mountains year after year.
One of the stand-out resorts for me over the years has been the French resort of Val d'Isère. It’s high-altitude means that it has one of the longer ski seasons in The Alps, perfect for those longer spring skiing days in March and April.
Val d'Isère is a great resort for beginners and more seasoned skiers alike. Whether you’re just starting out or you want a bit more of an adventure off-piste, it really is a resort that caters to all.
Make sure you plan your lunch spots and make reservations in advance when out skiing for the day. If you’re looking for quieter slopes, head over towards the Val d'Isère glacier via the Leissieres lift - best on a beautiful sunny day.
Key Resort Facts for Val d'Isère
Domaine: Espace Killy
Height: 1850m
Skiing Elevation: 1550m - 3445m
Pistes: 300km
Green: 15%
Blue: 42%
Red: 26%
Black: 17%
Longest Run: La Sache (Black) - 10km
Getting to Val d'Isère
Closest Airport: Chambery (CMF)
Transfer Time: 2h 15m / 140km
Recommended Airport: Geneva (GVA)
Transfer Time: 3h / 220km
Our Portfolio:
Number of chalets in our portfolio: 86
Number of hotels in out portfolio: 10
Where to Eat
Edelweiss is an ideal stop on the way down to Le Fornet and if you are thinking of exploring Tignes one day then check out Le Panoramic for a fantastic fine dining experience on the mountains.
My Favourite Places to Stay
Chalet O Valala – a lovely cosy feel with its warm and inviting interior design.
Chalets Orca and Orso – stunning location and incredible views form the living rooms of these interconnecting chalets.
Chalet Inoko – not only does this chalet have the most beautiful interior, but it also has the best hot tub location in the resort!
The Best Après Spots
Val d'Isère has some truly superb après ski. For dancing on the tables in the sun you have La Folie Douce. Cocoricos is a popular haunt, but I also just enjoy a more chilled out beer at Bananas right by central ski lift hub in town.
My Top Tip for Ski Trips
Ski from morning until late lunch (with a coffee stop to keep you fueled) and then head home straight after to enjoy the resort and or your hotel/chalet facilities. That is all part of the experience, and it is a holiday after all!
