Val d’Isere
Val d'Isere + Tignes
There are two things you can absolutely rely on in the Val d'Isere - fantastic snow and some of the best cooking in all of France. Throw in a rocking apres ski scene and you have the makings for a memorable experience in a drop-dead gorgeous part of the world. Together, Val d’Isere and Tignes are connected by over 180 miles of marked trails and 88 lifts. Venture off the groomed runs and carve tracks in a powder paradise all your own. It's no wonder this is known as one of the great ski domains of the world. Finish your day with some French techno and acid jazz at one of the various apres ski parties in and around town, or let us recommend an authentic bistro for a well-deserved meal and bottle of wine. Or two. Or three. Quaint, personable and easy to navigate, Val d'Isere is also ideal in the late spring.
Highlights: Best mountain restaurants in France. Abundance of easy and intermediate terrain. Close proximity to 3 other ski resorts (Les Arcs, La Plagne, and St. Foy). Great powder in the spring due to North facing terrain. Most charming village in France. Great and varied après ski.
Les Trois Vallèes
Courchevel-Meribel-Val Thorens
Le Trois Vallees (Three Valleys) is one of the world's elite ski destinations, and absolutely massive with over 370 miles of trails serviced by a network of 198 lifts. Yeah that was not a typo. The region offers more skiing than anyone can handle in a week, with terrain suitable for all levels and nothing overly extreme. There are oodles of friendly cruising slopes for beginners and intermediates while expert skiers can follow their guide into a world of endless powder, with plenty of opportunities for long-distance and back country experiences. The villages are all world-class each with its own character. Courchevel is known as the "Aspen" of Europe with chic restaurants and boutiques, Meribel has a distinctly British vibe while Val Thorens is the highest ski village on the continent.
Highlights: Courchevel is the “Aspen” of Europe. Private chalets in Meribel. Val Thorens is Europe’s highest ski village. Well suited to skiers at all levels.
Chamonix
Chamonix + Argentiere
Everyone's heard of Chamonix - and for good reason. It's a beautiful French town and the biggest lift-served resort outside of the Himalayas, which is why a guide is not only recommended but kind of essential. You'll notice one thing about the skiers here - nearly all are experts because this is the place to go if you want to hone your skills on extreme terrain. There's little here for novices unless you plan to spend your days huddled by a fire with a good novel and a glass of wine or a steaming cup of chocolate chaux. There's good cooking at many of the town's restaurants, bistros and bars, along with legendary nightlife. April is the month to go in order to avoid crowds. For a great lodging choice, click here.
Highlights: For highly advanced and expert skiers. Some of the highest lift-served terrain in the Alps. A must for anyone looking to hone their skills. Day trips to Courmayeur in Italy. Argentiere is the sleepy little brother.