Imagine gliding down a black run, kicking up white powder while the snow and sun almost — but not quite — dazzle away your views of the surrounding French Alps — this is Val d’Isere.
This French resort is known for luxurious hospitality, unparalleled views and, of course, its wide range of skiing — with more than 300 kilometres of slopes — it does not disappoint.
With the ski season winding down, there is no better way to close out the Winter than a last-minute holiday to France’s premier skiing destination.
The neighbouring resort, Tignes, is a bit quieter with more of a small-town feel. It offers access to the same skiing as Val d’Isere and is accessible by ski or road.
The valley has more than 160 ski slopes ranging from beginner green-runs to expert black-runs, there is truly something for every level of skier.
For the seriously intrepid, you can book off-piste heli-skiing — where you will be dropped into fresh powder on an untouched run by a helicopter.
The Ski season typically runs from November 27 to May 1 each year.
In Val d’Isere, you can’t go wrong booking a chalet with the option of hiring your own private chef. Guests will receive personalised menus based on their taste and food cooked with fresh, local produce.
Val d’Isere Location offers numerous options in luxury apartments catering to groups of all sizes.
In Tignes, the Village Montana Hotel boasts indoor and outdoor heated pools with fantastic views of the pistes. Note that much of the accommodation in Tignes is ski-in and out, meaning it is inaccessible by road.
After a long day skiing, head to La Follie Douce in Val d’Isere which can be reached by ski or gondola. This local institution offers some great French comfort foods as well as regular shows and live music.
If you’re looking to let off some steam, the Après Ski bar at the base of the slopes, Coco Rico, offers a chance to drink and dance with the rest of the mountain from 4 pm to 8 pm daily.
This wild ski bar sees spectacular live music and large crowds on a daily basis — don’t bother changing out of your gear.
For a more refined evening, head to Val d’Isere’s local Michelin Star restaurant La Table de l’Ours Restaurant. The restaurant offers set menus with regional specialities and is located in the five-star Hotel Les Barmes de l’Ours — a great accommodation option if you don’t fancy booking a private chalet.
In Tignes, the place to fine-dine is Le Kaya, which offers fresh seafood — something unexpected in the Alps — as well as more regional cuisine.
The best way to get to the Valley of Isere is by private car from either Lyon or Geneva, Switzerland. There is also a heliport in the valley with organised transfers.
Whether you stay in a five-star hotel or a private chalet, in Val D’Isere or Tignes, there is arguably no better location in France for your next ski holiday. As the slopes close on May 1, now is the time to book to close out the season in style.