The Val Thorens resort in the Belleville Valley has the enviable distinction of being the highest in Europe. At an altitude of 2300 m it is one of several resorts in the 3 vallées area, the largest continuous ski area in the world, offering 600 km of skiing, snowshoeing, boardercross, Segway, dog sledding, snow driving, ice diving, snowmobiles and paragliding. It should therefore come as no surprise that it is the most visited international ski resort in France. Many of the slopes are north facing, so the snow is good as it is not so sunny. In contrast, the resort itself is facing the sun, so visitors get the best of both worlds.
The resort offers on-site accommodation in 11 slope-side chalets, ski instruction, snowparks and ski equipment. Creature comforts in the form of a sports centre and aqua-spa are available on-site and numerous restaurants serve top class cuisine. Shops provide an opportunity to purchase local goods and the après-ski bars and clubs are superb.
Val Thorens is located in the Belleville Valley accessible by car or public transport. It is a fairly short journey from Chambery or Grenoble, with Lyon roughly the same distance away again. Helicopter transportation is also available. From the UK, ferries or the channel tunnel offer travel to the resort.
The resort can be reached from London, Paris and Brussels by Eurostar. Bus, taxi or train transfers provide transport to the resort locations from the rail station.
Regular long-distance and other bus services connect Val Thorens to the airports at Geneva, Grenoble, Chambery and Lyon, as well as offering travel possibilities from the rail stations to the resort. Shuttles offer transport from the airport.
Driving to the resort is recommended if you'll be spending an extended period in the valley. Scenic routes take longer but avoid the toll fees on the Autoroute. Travelling via Moutiers to the resort is the quickest option.
Ski season runs from November to May. Duo passes offer discounts for two people, while Tribe passes offer group discounts. Family passes are ideal for those going skiing with children.