Tignes-Val d’Isère: The Best of European Skiing
Why Ski at Tignes-Val d’Isère?
The Tignes-Val d’Isère ski area is simply iconic. Not only for its 300 kilometres of trails but also for its history, picturesque beauty, vibrant après-ski, and lively nightlife. Deep within a protected natural area in France’s Savoie region, the village of Val d’Isère sits at an altitude of 1,850 metres. The stone cottages lining the streets and church steeple dating from the seventeenth century evoke the authentic village’s rich history. Although Val d’Isère is over eighty years old, it welcomes avid skiers with high-quality, modern amenities—not to mention its Michelin-starred cuisine and off-slope activities for the whole family.
Val d’Isère mainly consists of its own village and two smaller hamlets, La Daille and Le Fornet. From the departure point at La Daille, you can use the Funival, Val d’Isère’s famous funicular, which climbs 2,294 metres, including 1,720 through a tunnel carved into the mountain. The villages of La Daille and Le Fornet are quieter and just a few minutes by bus from the central village of Val d’Isère. However, to fully experience the atmosphere, you should stay in Val d’Isère.
The Slopes of the Tignes-Val d’Isère Ski Area
The Tignes-Val d’Isère area is divided into two ski resorts, Tignes and Val d’Isère, served by a system of ski lifts covering 24,000 acres of terrain. The area is split into three ski sectors—Le Fornet, La Solaise, and Bellevarde—with 159 runs. The area lies between 1,550 and 3,450 metres in altitude, with 60% of the trails located above 2,200 metres. This elevation offers an impressive vertical drop of 1,900 metres, which ensures an abundant, high-quality snowfall averaging 618 centimetres per season.
The meteorological phenomenon known as les retours d’Est, characterized by snow-laden clouds from the east, is a main factor in these heavy snow accumulations.
Moreover, the microclimate created near the Italian border and the area’s elevation also have a significant effect on precipitation. If snow becomes scarce, the resort can use some of the best snowmaking machines in Europe. The mountain is also renowned for its impeccably maintained trails.
Tignes-Val d’Isère has runs for all skill levels. The resort offers 21 beginner, 65 intermediate, 41 advanced, and 32 expert trails. Plus, two snow parks have been developed for freestyle enthusiasts. For beginners, Tignes-Val d’Isère offers a wide array of trails in addition to sectors for children. The Solaise massif, whose high-altitude slopes are among the most accessible in France, is a perfect place for beginners. Intermediate skiers will appreciate the high concentration of blue runs, such as the Mangard in the Fornet sector, a long descent that partially follows the road to the Col de l’Iseran. The Grand Pré trail also offers a delightful ride and a perfect canvas for long turns. For the more advanced, the Arcelle trail and the OK are must-skis. The latter hosts the Women’s Alpine Ski World Cup every year. For experts, the French ski area is home to the legendary Face de Bellevarde. This expert run is sure to thrill even the most seasoned skiers. It’s best to tackle it in the morning before it’s skied out. In addition to these trails, the resort has developed ski touring options for those who wish to explore the area on their own.
Pre- and Post-Ski Gourmet Experiences
The ski area and its surrounding villages are quite spoiled when it comes to cuisine. Michelin-starred restaurants, such as chef Benoît Vidal’s Atelier Edmond and Bistro Gourmand, await you with delicious dishes. You can also experience the talents of the young Michelin-starred chef Antoine Gras at the Table de l’Ours.
For a more laid-back atmosphere, head to La Charpenterie, a restaurant with hearty local fare and a menu of natural wines and creative cocktails. To enjoy seasonal products in a family atmosphere, go with the Alpin restaurant. If you’re looking for local specialties, head to La Casserole, where raclette and fondue reign supreme.
For breakfast, nothing beats Café Val d’Isère. This charming place has a vintage decor with a kitschy touch where coffee, scrumptious crepes, gourmet flat cakes, and pastries are served. Most menu items come from the Savoie region.
If you want to cook during your stay or create local-style aperitifs, stock up at the Val d’Isère market, which is open every Monday. Located in the heart of the village and starting at 8:00 a.m., it offers fresh local products, such as the exquisite selection of cheeses. It’s a great place to walk around and soak up the Savoie region’s mountain culture.
Nightlife in Val d’Isère
Val d’Isère is renowned for its vibrant nightlife. Cocorico is a top après-ski destination. With a location in Tignes and one in Val d’Isère, these outdoor bars are open every day from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and even until 2:00 a.m. on Sundays. They’re the perfect spot to get into your groove on the dance floor.
La Folie Douce is also a must-visit in Val d’Isère. This mythical place offers several services, such as a restaurant, a cabaret show, a cocktail bar, and a club. If you’re looking for a fun, offbeat experience, it’s the place to be. And the Doudoune Club is at the top of the list for night owls looking for a dance party. For a more relaxed ambiance, the B’Bar Val d’Isère offers a selection of beers and cocktails in a cozy setting.
Off-Slope Activities
To fully enjoy the Val d’Isère experience, you should explore all its facets, even beyond the slopes. The village offers a wide array of activities, whether you’re looking for something active or just want to relax. Various hiking trails allow you to walk to the different hamlets and enjoy the scenery. In addition, you can ride an electric fatbike to explore the surroundings while staying active. The spellbinding setting is also a prime place for cross-country skiing.
For those who want to unwind, there’s a broad array of spa offerings. A new amenity for 2025, the Spa Sisley at the Barmes de l’Ours Relais & Châteaux boasts a 1,000 m2 space featuring a pool under a starry sky, a jacuzzi, saunas, and massage and beauty services. If you want to continue relaxing, the new Finnish-inspired ice floating experience promises—believe it or not!—a moment of supreme relaxation.
All in all, the Tignes-Val d’Isère ski resort is a true paradise for anyone who loves winter. Val d’Isère’s historical charm and top-notch ski conditions waltz together in a perfect harmony that delights snow sports enthusiasts. Don’t miss our new travel offer in collaboration with SportVac to experience the best of Tignes-Val d’Isère!
To reserve your spot, please email the following address victoria.na@sportvac.com or call 450-465-4900, ext. 237.
