Skiing in Val d'Isère

Here's our guide to Val d’Isere

Skiing and the Mountains

• The Espace Killy was named after the most famous of all French skiers Jean Claude Killy, they are rightly proud of both of them!
• The resort is well known for its early season snow. The first European down hill is always takes place in Val well before Christmas.
• The Face is the classic run that everybody talks about in Val d’Isere. Used in the 1992 winter Olympics for the men’s down hill race, the run is always kept in pretty good condition so even though it’s steep most intermediate skiers and above can give it a go.
• New to Val d’Isere for the 06/07 season is a ‘hands free’ lift pass system. Finally the resort has caught up with the other resorts and will make the access to the mountains quicker and easier.
• The Tignes glacier is one of the must see experiences. Being the highest point at 3656m the views over the area are stunning.
• If you like to get away from the crowds try Le Fornet, its often forgotten and has great cruisy runs as well as a lot of untouched off piste.

Resort and après ski

• You might think Cocktails belong on your summer holiday but head down to Victors for the happy hour between 8-10pm for their 2 for 1 offer. Their famous Altitude Adjuster will certainly liven your night up!
• For the adrenalin junkies you have to try the new high tech snow sport of Airboard. It’s basically an inflatable luge steered by your body weight as you hurtle down the piste. There are races every Monday.
• Ice diving in the Lac at Tignes is a surreal experience. Your kitted out in a complete dry suite and roped into the lake through an ice hole to experience the eerie peace of the ice-covered water.
• Over the years après bars come and go but there is one that is synonymous with skiing and a great night out. You cannot come to Val d’Isere without trying Dicks Teabar, you may not make first lift in the morning but it’s very worth it.
• Every Thursday the centre of the village is transformed into a traditional street fair with ice sculptures, live music and lots going on.
• Over the last few years the resort has worked hard to create a more traditional feel. There are strict building laws to make sure the resort keeps its aesthetically pleasing alpine feel.

Resort Facts