Welcome to Val Thorens
Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe, at an altitude of 2300m. This compact, purpose-built resort offers an extended season when compared to most ski areas, opening nearly two months longer, from the last week in November until the first week in May. Situated at the top of the Three Valleys, its high altitude means it is snow sure, while the modern ski lift system makes it easy to access the linked resorts of Méribel and Courchevel.
The Val Thorens valley is made up of three separate villages: Les Menuires, Val Thorens and Saint Martin de Belleville. With its own glacier and a peak elevation of 3200m, one thing you’re guaranteed is amazing snow-sure conditions throughout the season and well into late spring. There are 319 pistes totalling 600km in length as well as several beginner areas, 200 lifts and a great snowpark, making it a resort that suits all ages and abilities.
Despite being purpose-built, Val Thorens is not the 1960’s concrete eyesore that you might expect as it has been developed to fit its surroundings and has benefited from investment during the last decade or so. Well known as a lively resort, it is popular with students and families alike. The majority of accommodation here is in hotels or self-catered apartments and there are fewer catered chalets than in neighbouring Méribel.
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Latest news, reviews & events in Val Thorens
News
Find out all about what is happening in the Val Thorens area and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in the region. Plus, during the winter season, our famous snow reports and dump alerts all in the same place.
Events
A number of events take place over the winter and summer months in Val Thorens and the Belleville valley in which it sits. From ski cross championships and music festivals to a mountain bike race that takes place across the whole of the Three Valleys, the Trois Vallées Addict Tour, and the occasional Tour de France stage, you'll find something to keep you entertained during your stay.
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What to see & do in Meribel
Do
Not only is the Val Thorens valley a haven for snow lovers in the winter, bringing thousands of families and visitors from across the world to enjoy its varied ski terrain, but it is also home to incredible opportunities for summer holidays too, with a broad network of hiking trails, road cycling, and mountain biking.
See
The Vanoise National Park is one of the highlights of the entire Tarentaise region. A haven for all sorts of wildlife as well as a magnet for outdoor sports enthusiasts, it is well worth a visit at any time of year. All of the Alpine creatures are well represented here, including chamois, marmots, ibex and even eagles.
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Plan your Stay
The Val Thorens ski slopes cover a massive area, ranging from an altitude of 3230m to 1450m. As 99% of the runs are found above 2000m, great snow conditions are pretty much guaranteed for the entire winter season.
Away from the slopes you can relax in the sports centre with swimming pool and spa or, if you are feeling energetic, there is a fitness area. You also have 15 other spas to choose from in Val Thorens.
Val Thorens has a great selection of restaurants to choose from, with everything from Michelin-starred eateries to traditional local cuisine, Italian pizza or takeaway, as well as mountain restaurants with views.
The highest après-ski in Europe is also one of the most vibrant – live bands, DJs and karaoke nights are all popular and there are plenty of places to grab a beer and something to refuel the system after a day on the slopes.
The valley offers three different areas where you can stay in. The main resort of Val Thorens is at the very top of the valley, Les Menuires is located a bit lower down and St Martin de Belleville sits at the bottom of the valley.
The most convenient and closest airport to the 3 Valleys is Chambery, an hour and 15 minute drive away. From here you have a number of different methods of transport to choose from to get you up to resort.
How to Get to Val Thorens | Guide to the Quickest, Easiest & Cheapest Options