Val Thorens is a snow-sure ski resort connected to the Three Valleys ski area. Although it is known as a party resort, it can also offer families an excellent value for money ski holiday. It also has wonderful beginner pistes and has the highest number of green runs in the Three Valleys.
One of the most appealing aspects of Val Thorens is that you can ski (or sledge!) everywhere - to and from your accommodation, between shops and restaurants, to the ski lifts - no need to carry two or three sets of skis! In addition, the ski pass is free for children under five, the beginner ski passes are discounted by 50%, and reduced price lift passes are available for families - essentially everyone pays the child's rate. Please see our Ski Lift Pass Prices page for further information. There is very little traffic in Val Thorens as it is semi-pedestrianised.
There is a wide range of affordable accommodation in Val Thorens, much of which is ski-in/ski-out. The resort is full of self-catering apartments, with a good choice of four bedroom and larger options. Catered chalets are more scarce in Val Thorens, but you should be able to get one in the lower lying village of Les Menuires. Val Thorens also has a lovely selection of hotels, from five star luxury to more modest aparthotels, all that can organise childcare for you.
There are nursery ski areas in the village centre where you can use some of the ski lifts for free. There is a good selection of children's ski schools and the resort has a modern ski lift infra-structure to help you explore the ski area easily and quickly.
In addition to the wonderful skiing, Val Thorens can offer families plenty of activities, with its swimming pool, trampolines and soft play area in the sports centre. Many of the restaurants are family-friendly and there are several independent childcare companies that can help you with looking after the kids.
Val Thorens is a great option for a summer holiday as well. The Alps are very beautiful in summer with hot sunny days and cool nights, and plenty of activities and events to keep you occupied.
At 2,300m, Val Thorens is one of the highest ski resorts in Europe, which means that it normally has excellent snow, but can be very cold and the altitude may not suit very small children. However, for beginners, it is a great place to learn how to ski. There are five designated beginner zones, with 11 green runs and 29 blues - so much variety for those just learning is very rare. The neighbouring resort of Les Menuires at 1,850m is also popular with families - it has its own nursery slopes, plenty of green runs and is connected to Val Thorens via the lift system. And being at a lower altitude, it may be more suitable a destination for those with toddlers.