Perched high up in the renowned Three Valleys ski area, this resort is the highest not only in the valley region, but in the whole of Europe. Its lofty location means that panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped mountain peaks are a given and a beautiful blanket of snow cover is a near guarantee from November to May. With its breathtaking natural landscape and a welcoming sociable atmosphere, the town has been crowned the ‘World’s Best Ski Resort’ for the past four out of five years at the esteemed World Ski Awards. Without a doubt, a trip here is a unique experience.
Majestic Views
To truly take advantage of all that this award-winning resort has to offer, find yourself a home-away-from-home in a beautiful catered chalet. Val Thorens, situated at an altitude of 2300m, literally reigns supreme over neighbouring resorts, which include Courchevel, Meribel and Les Menuires. It’s seated at the head of the Belleville Valley, affording world-class panoramic views of the dramatic peaks that surround the revered resort.
On a clear day, the horseshoe mountain range that surrounds the resort is a snapshot taken straight from a postcard, a picture perfect winter scene. Even when the weather closes in, from the comfort of your cosy catered chalet, Val Thorens remains an alluring beauty: wild, magical and intriguing.
World-Class Location
But it’s not all about the views, although, they are pretty spectacular. Its elevated position within the vast Three Valleys ski area means that for over half the year the resort receives a generous snow covering. With such ideal conditions, the ski scene attracts a range of clientele, from wealthy seasoned skiers to 20-somethings who love the variety of the slopes. The variety of visitors is a defining characteristic, creating a fun and friendly atmosphere that makes it an attractive destination for all sorts of people.
Adventure for All Abilities
As you step out of your bespoke catered chalet, Val Thorens can appear daunting, with the icy mountain peaks towering over its numerous slopes. But with this vast terrain comes variety, and you’re guaranteed to find some snow sport fun for all levels and abilities. As well as its own 140 km of pistes, the surrounding territories of Les Menuires and Courchevel boast over 400 km more! In addition there are endless possibilities to go off-piste, albeit for the more daring of skiers.
However, venturing into the other parts of the Three Valleys is hardly a necessity since Val Thorens offers more than enough to keep everyone entertained. Beginners can find their ski-legs on the magic carpets and nursery slopes before progressing onto the green and blue runs. Intermediates will find a whole host of long cruising pistes to practice their slaloms, while advanced skiers will be drawn to the daring Cime de Caron that reaches 3,200m, and boasts some of the best off-piste routes in the area.
And after a fun-filled day on some of Europe’s best slopes, you can warm yourself up with home-cooked meal by the fire in your private catered chalet. Val Thorens really is the ideal destination for an unforgettable trip. So, what are you waiting for?
Martin Wynn
