More About val d’isere

In this more about Val d’Isere, and as one of the world’s top ski resorts, we’re going to show their piste map offers some of the most exciting and extensive terrain available.  Found up in France’s Upper Tarentaise Valley, it’s got loads going for it, both on and off the slopes.

Let’s Talk Skiing

Val d’Isere has built its superb reputation on its excellent pistes.  In fact, some of the world’s greatest skiers have both learned to ski, and competed here.  In fact, the 1992 Olympics and  the World Alpine Ski Championships have been held here, plus every December the World Cup is here too. 

Val d’Isere has built its superb reputation on its excellent pistes. In fact, some of the world’s greatest skiers have both learned to ski, and competed here. In fact, the 1992 Olympics and the World Alpine Ski Championships have been held here, plus every December the World Cup is here too.

Beginners will be able to follow in the steps of Olympic medallists Christine and Marielle Goitschel who learned to ski in Val d’Isere. And the vast ski area of Killy is actually named after Jean-Claude Killy; the triple gold winner. You’ve got two excellent nursery slopes, La Daille and in the centre of the town, which are both easy to get to. Once you’ve found your confidence, you can join the intermediates and make the most of some of the best pistes in the world.

Start off with Bellevarde and Solaise, where you’ll find the Slow Zones – Madeline and Verte. A great way to build your skills. You’ve also got some superb wide runs at the Col de l’Iseran which are a good place to develop your confidence too. A great benefit of this resort is that you won’t need a Val d’Isere lift pass for the beginner runs, which makes it more affordable as opposed to other resorts.

And when it comes to advanced skiers in Val d’Isere, this truly is a perfect playground for you. It’s world class by all standards, and the breathtaking OK and Face pistes are absolutely not to be missed. If snowboarding is for you, there are loads off-piste areas just waiting for you. You’ll find that there is a small amount of button lifts which means you can get on the slopes a lot quicker.

The Resort

If you’re looking for some amazing après ski, you’ve certainly come to the right place. With the superb range of Val d’Isere bars and restaurants – in fact you’ve got over 90 eating places to try, you have all sorts of cuisine on offer. Make sure you visit La Folie Douce for its sweet madness in the form of its massive party scene. You’ll find dancers and musicians here, it even rains champagne. And for those of you looking to party until the early hours, make sure you head for the brilliant cocktails at Bananas, or Dicks T Bar.

Staying in Val d’Isere 

When it comes to ski accommodation in Val d’Isere, you’ve got a lot of choices available to you. Most of the places to stay are apartments and these cater for all budgets, some even with swimming pools. There are a lot of Val d’Isere hotels to choose from, as well as hotel chalets, with a large part of the hotels being on the more expensive end of the spectrum. You’ve also got some 4-star ski in/ski out hotels here. Plus there are lots of package holidays available.

Snow Conditions 

Thanks to its high snowsure altitude of 1850m, the Val d’Isere weather is a good choice when comparing it with other locations.  The best month for snow is definitely March with an average of 196cm at the top, with November being traditionally lowest at 36cm at the top.  They’ve also got some superb snowmaking facilities too, so it’s a win/win all round.

Resort Life 

more about val d'isere

When you think of Val d’Isere, you’ll probably think of the world-class events such as the Olympics that the resort is renowned for.  And for skiers, it has so much going for it.  You’ve also got some brilliant fun guaranteed at the Oakley Valpark.  Here you’ll find something for everyone, with an airbag, jumps, kickers and a quarter pipe. Younger visitors will love the Acticross area, dedicated to children.  Here you’ll find thrills of a calmer nature, with bumps, curves, jumps, slalom and a super tunnel.  And the party spirit keeps going thanks to the park’s sound system and a great BBQ too.

There’s lots for non-skiers in Val d’Isere to enjoy, with lots of shops to visit.  Activities-wise, adrenalin seekers can experience excitement thanks to helicopter rides, ice climbing, ice circuit driving or paragliding to name just a few.  But if it’s relaxation you’re after, you can head for the luxury spas, or you could enjoy a walk through the picturesque surroundings.  There’s also a good sports centre with climbing walls, a fitness suite, swimming pools and saunas.

What’s Good About Val d’Isere? 

Val d’Isere is a pretty Alpine town and its world-class slopes truly benefit from its high altitude.  The ski terrain is extensive, thanks to its shared area with Tignes.  No matter what standard you are, there’s definitely something for you.  Beginners are spoiled by a great selection of ski schools.  We particularly like Val d’Isere as it’s excellent for intermediate and advanced skiers, and it also benefits from some brilliant lift-served off-piste runs.  Val d’Isere is definitely a party resort, renowned for its superb après-ski.  With lots of restaurants to try and entertainment to discover, you’ll certainly create some fantastic memories at Val d’Isere.

The SnowResort Verdict 

The Val d’Isere resort is pretty big, with so many facilities and things to do both on and off the slopes.  Ski-wise, there’s something for everyone, and there’s no denying that it is a world-class resort.  It has loads on offer for all budgets, however you will find it more of an upmarket resort.