08/09/2024
Unique Skiing Experience
While many resorts boast certain features, Val d’Isère stands out by combining them all. Renowned for its technically challenging slopes, this resort also caters to beginners, with 21% of its terrain designated as green slopes and 38% as blue slopes. It’s a haven for freeriders and ski tourers, offering extensive off-piste opportunities that attract thrill-seekers from around the world.
Stunning Geography
Nestled in a dramatic valley surrounded by towering mountains and lush larch trees, Val d’Isère stretches over four picturesque kilometers from La Daille to Le Fornet. Located near the iconic Col de l’Iseran, this resort thrives year-round and is just a stone’s throw from Italy. Thanks to the unique “return from the east” weather pattern from the Italian peaks, Val d’Isère enjoys exceptional snowfall, often surpassing other Alpine resorts at similar altitudes (1850m). From late November to early May, Val d’Isère transforms into a snowy paradise, renowned for its reliable and high-quality snow.
The Legendary Ski Area
Val d’Isère, in conjunction with Tignes, forms the legendary Espace Killy – a vast, diverse, and technically challenging ski domain celebrated worldwide. At the heart of Val d’Isère’s skiing experience is the iconic Face of Bellevarde. This exhilarating slope offers a thrilling descent for expert skiers, while gentler routes are available for those less experienced.
The expansive Bellevarde massif provides seamless access to Tignes and easy returns to La Daille. From the Snow Front, skiers can venture into the Solaise area, with its broad boulevards and access to the Pissaillas glacier and Signal de l’Iseran. On the eastern side of Val d’Isère, the Laisinant domain and the charming village of Le Fornet offer a mix of technical corridors and intermediate slopes, perfect for skiers seeking variety and challenge.
Val d’Isère’s ski area spans 324 hectares, featuring 188 diverse slopes, catering to all levels from beginners to seasoned freeriders. This comprehensive terrain, coupled with the resort’s picturesque setting and guaranteed snow, cements Val d’Isère’s status as a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Timeless Architecture
Val d’Isère, a village with a rich history predating its fame as a ski resort, has preserved its authentic Savoyard character and charm. The municipality has diligently maintained traditional architecture, utilizing local materials such as Val d’Isère stone, lauzes, and fir wood, ensuring the village’s old-world allure remains intact.
The Vibrant Center
Megève’s pedestrian-friendly center provides direct access to the slopes via the Le Chamois gondola. This lift takes skiers from the village heart to the start of the Rocharbois, connecting Rochebrune and Mont d’Arbois.
Vibrant Atmosphere
Val d’Isère is more than just a ski destination; it’s a lively and enchanting village with a vibrant atmosphere. Renowned for its prestigious establishments, the resort boasts top-tier hotels like Le Blizzard, Les Barmes de l’Ours, and Le Yule, as well as exceptional dining options, including the Michelin-starred L’Atelier d’Edmond. The après-ski scene is legendary, with hotspots like La Folie Douce, La Baraque, and Chez Jules offering lively entertainment and socializing opportunities.
Local families, who have shaped the character of the resort for decades, contribute to Val d’Isère’s warm, friendly, and sporty atmosphere. Throughout the year, the village buzzes with various events, from music festivals to sports competitions, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening.
The Districts of Val d'Isère
The Center
The heart of Val d’Isère, encompassing the Old Village and the Front de Neige, is predominantly pedestrian and a must-visit area for all holidaymakers. The bustling squares and streets, illuminated by enchanting lights and accompanied by lively music, create a festive and inviting ambiance. Après-ski is a delight, whether enjoying a drink at Cocorico or La Doudoune, savoring pancakes at La Grande Ourse, Le Brussel’s, or Sun Bar, or strolling through the quaint alleys of the old village surrounding the baroque church.
La Legettaz
Situated close to the center, the Legettaz district offers a serene environment with stunning views of the wild Manchet valley and Bellevarde. This area is predominantly ski-in, ski-out, featuring high-end accommodations like Club Med and the Centaurée apartment.
The Carats
The Carats district epitomizes VIP living in Val d’Isère. Overlooking the village from a rocky promontory adjacent to the Bellevarde slope, this exclusive area is accessed via a spiral tunnel with barriers. Guests of the luxurious chalets here enjoy private elevator access to the center, ensuring convenience and privacy.
Petit Alaska
Unique to Val d’Isère, the Petit Alaska hamlet is a cozy residential area located just 400 meters from the Front de Neige. Nestled against a cliff, it features a dozen high-end chalets, such as Tasna and the prestigious La Canadienne residence, creating an intimate and exclusive atmosphere.
Le Fornet
Le Fornet is an authentic and charming village at the very end of the valley. Spanning both sides of a river crossed by a quaint bridge, this area features traditional stone chalets, including the notable Chalet Hermine Blanche. Just a minute’s drive from the center, Le Fornet is served by its namesake cable car, providing convenient ski-in, ski-out access. This picturesque village also houses the two-Michelin-starred restaurant, L’Atelier d’Edmond, adding to its allure.
