Val d'Isère

Often referred to as the Queen of the Alps, Val d'Isère is a ski resort that proudly holds a spot in the world's top ten. 
Part of the vast Tignes-Val d'Isère ski area, this resort offers an unparalleled skiing experience, making it one of the largest and most extensive ski areas in the world. With excellent snow conditions and vast terrain, Val d'Isère is a haven for skiers of all levels.

Val d'Isère Location and Altitude

Val d'Isère is known for its exceptional snow quality and quantity, thanks to its high altitude and north-facing slopes. The ski resort's elevation ranges from 1,850 metres in the village to nearly 3,450 metres on the highest slopes, ensuring excellent snow conditions throughout the season. Over fifty-four percent of the runs are between 2,200 and 2,900 vertical feet, providing reliable snow cover and thrilling descents.

Slopes and trails in Val d'Isère

The slopes of Val d'Isère are divided into three main interconnected mountains, each offering a unique skiing experience:

✓ Mt. Bellevarde: Famous for its Olympic slopes and world-renowned competition runs. Access is by funicular from La Daille or by cable car from the village of Val d'Isère.
✓ La Solaise: Accessible from the village, it offers a mix of challenging downhill runs and gentler higher elevation slopes. This area is connected to the Pisaillas massif via the Col de l'Iseran.
✓ Pisaillas Glacier: Accessible from the picturesque village of Le Fornet, it offers gentler slopes and excellent snow conditions, perfect for beginners and intermediate skiers.

Best Ski Areas in Val d'Isère 

For beginners
Val d'Isère is beginner-friendly, with several gentle slopes perfect for learning. The Pisaillas Glacier is ideal for beginners with its smooth and easy slopes. The free lifts and beginner zones at La Daille and in the village centre provide an excellent starting point for new skiers.

For intermediate skiers
Intermediate skiers will find a wealth of blue and red runs in all three mountain areas. La Solaise offers beautiful intermediate slopes with stunning views, while the interconnected runs between Bellevarde and Pisaillas provide ample opportunity for exploration and skill development.

For advanced skiers
Advanced skiers can challenge themselves on the steep black runs of Bellevarde, including the famous Olympic runs. The resort's high-altitude terrain and off-piste areas offer thrilling adventures for those seeking a more challenging skiing experience.

Freeride and Snowparks in Val d'Isère

Freeride Areas
Val d'Isère is a freerider's paradise with extensive off-piste opportunities. The resort's varied terrain and consistent snow quality make it a favorite for those looking to carve their own paths through the powder.

Snowparks
Snowboarders and freestyle skiers will love Val d'Isère's snowparks. The resort offers well-equipped parks with jumps, rails and half-pipes for all levels. The snowparks at Bellevarde are particularly popular, attracting freestyle enthusiasts from all over the world.

Best places for lunch in Val d'Isère

Val d'Isère offers a variety of dining options on the mountain. Some of the best places to stop for lunch include:

✓ La Fruitière: Located at the top of the La Daille gondola, this restaurant offers delicious local cuisine and stunning views.
✓ Edelweiss: Nestled on the slopes of La Solaise, Edelweiss serves hearty Savoyard fare in a cozy alpine setting.
✓ L'Atelier d'Edmond: A Michelin-starred restaurant in Le Fornet, known for its creative and refined cuisine, perfect for a gourmet mountain meal.

Ski schools and kindergartens

Ski Schools
Val d'Isère has several ski schools offering lessons for all levels. Whether you prefer group lessons or private instruction, you'll find expert guidance to help you make the most of your time on the slopes.

Nurseries and children's clubs
Val d'Isère is a fantastic family destination. The resort has nurseries and children's clubs offering a range of activities to keep the little ones entertained while parents enjoy their time on the slopes. Les Lutins in Val d'Isère offers daycare for young children, so parents can hit the slopes with peace of mind.

Après ski activities

Val d'Isère offers a lively après-ski scene. After a day on the slopes, you can relax and enjoy a variety of activities, including:

✓ Ice Skating: Enjoy skating on the outdoor rink in the village center.
✓ Paragliding: Experience the thrill of soaring over the snow-covered landscape.
✓ Snowmobiling: Explore the natural beauty of the area on a snowmobile tour.

The resort's nightlife is equally appealing, with numerous bars and clubs offering live music, DJ sets and a lively atmosphere.

✓ Saloon Bar: Known for its lively atmosphere and great drinks.
✓ Doudoune Club: A favorite for those looking to dance the night away.

Best time to ski in Val d'Isère 

Val d'Isère enjoys a long ski season thanks to its high altitude and glaciers. The best time to visit depends on your preferences:

✓ Early season (November - December): Ideal for those looking for fresh snow and quieter slopes.
✓ Middle Season (January - February): Offers the best snow conditions and a lively atmosphere, perfect for families and social skiers.
✓ Late Season (March - April): Enjoy longer days and sunny weather with excellent snow conditions on the glacier.

How to get there

› By car
Val d'Isère is easily accessible by car, with well maintained roads leading to the resort. It's a straightforward three-hour drive from Lyon or Geneva. Parking is available at the resort, including indoor and outdoor options.

› By air
The closest airports to Val d'Isère are Lyon, Geneva and Chambéry. All three offer shuttle services to the resort, making it convenient for international travellers.

› By Train
For those who prefer to travel by train, Bourg-Saint-Maurice is the nearest major station, with regular bus and taxi service to Val d'Isère. The train journey from Paris to Bourg-Saint-Maurice takes approximately four hours, making it a convenient option.

Book your Val d'Isère Ski Holiday with Esquiades.com

At Esquiades.com we believe that experiencing these aspects first hand is essential to understanding why skiing in Val d'Isère is unparalleled. Explore our Val d'Isère ski deals and embark on an unforgettable ski holiday in this stunning destination. Our packages include accommodation and lift passes, and you can easily add ski equipment or car rental for a seamless holiday. Book now and enjoy an unforgettable ski holiday in one of France's top resorts.

The slopes of Val d'Isère are divided into three main interconnected mountains, each offering a unique skiing experience:

✓ Mt. Bellevarde: Famous for its Olympic slopes and world-renowned competition runs. Access is by funicular from La Daille or by cable car from the village of Val d'Isère.
✓ La Solaise: Accessible from the village, it offers a mix of challenging downhill runs and gentler higher elevation slopes. This area is connected to the Pisaillas massif via the Col de l'Iseran.
✓ Pisaillas Glacier: Accessible from the picturesque village of Le Fornet, it offers gentler slopes and excellent snow conditions, perfect for beginners and intermediate skiers.

Best Ski Areas in Val d'Isère

For beginners
Val d'Isère is beginner-friendly, with several gentle slopes perfect for learning. The Pisaillas Glacier is ideal for beginners with its smooth and easy slopes. The free lifts and beginner zones at La Daille and in the village centre provide an excellent starting point for new skiers.

For intermediate skiers
Intermediate skiers will find a wealth of blue and red runs in all three mountain areas. La Solaise offers beautiful intermediate slopes with stunning views, while the interconnected runs between Bellevarde and Pisaillas provide ample opportunity for exploration and skill development.

For advanced skiers
Advanced skiers can challenge themselves on the steep black runs of Bellevarde, including the famous Olympic runs. The resort's high-altitude terrain and off-piste areas offer thrilling adventures for those seeking a more challenging skiing experience.

Freeride Areas
Val d'Isère is a freerider's paradise with extensive off-piste opportunities. The resort's varied terrain and consistent snow quality make it a favorite for those looking to carve their own paths through the powder.

Snowparks
Snowboarders and freestyle skiers will love Val d'Isère's snowparks. The resort offers well-equipped parks with jumps, rails and half-pipes for all levels. The snowparks at Bellevarde are particularly popular, attracting freestyle enthusiasts from all over the world.

Ski Schools
Val d'Isère has several ski schools offering lessons for all levels. Whether you prefer group lessons or private instruction, you'll find expert guidance to help you make the most of your time on the slopes.

Nurseries and children's clubs
Val d'Isère is a fantastic family destination. The resort has nurseries and children's clubs offering a range of activities to keep the little ones entertained while parents enjoy their time on the slopes. Les Lutins in Val d'Isère offers daycare for young children, so parents can hit the slopes with peace of mind.