April in Val Thorens: What's on and weather

As winter draws to a close for another year, the snow on the lower slopes is usually much heavier by midday. The temperatures rarely dip below freezing during the day, usually falling between a low of -6ºC and a high of 2ºC, plus there's still the chance of snow as April averages 10 days snowfall, and therefore a powder day isn't out of the question.

Easter is a popular time for families so the slopes are noticeably busier as soon as the holidays begin. Fortunately, the Trois Vallées ski area is so vast, that even in high season you can find quiet slopes and minimal lift queues. Here are our insider's top tips for the school holidays:

1. Group lessons are the best option in the busy period, as private lessons are almost impossible to book - unless you got in early. Make sure to get your ski and snowboard lessons booked well in advance to avoid disappointment.
2. If you're not in ski school, be an early bird. Arrive at the lifts before they open so that you get up and away before the ski school classes set out around 09:15.
3. Ski over lunchtime when the slopes are calmer (between 12:00 and 14:00) whilst the French take a leisurely lunch break.
4. Avoid the queues and make the most of your time in the mountains by pre-booking your lunch reservation - some restaurants offer a Click & Collect service.  
5. Seek out the peripheral areas. Take advantage of the lack of queues on the popular Cime Caron cable car and enjoy the magnificent red runs from its 3,200m summit, then venture to the furthest point in the Three Valleys, the hidden fourth valley of Orelle, and enjoy its spectacular scenery and long blue runs.
6. Get off piste. Competent off piste skiers can book a local mountain guide and explore the vast off piste areas in the valley or even go touring to find complete solitude in the backcountry.

There is still time to enjoy Val Thorens' legendary après-ski parties before the season comes to an end. Since it's opening La Folie Douce has taken the après-ski hotspot crown, but for a more relaxed affair you can always try one of the village bars for some happy hour discounts - and if you're here late enough in the season there are some wild closing parties.

There's plenty to do in resort in April, you can try the longest toboggan run in Europe, discover the snow-covered landscapes by night riding your snowmobile on a tour across the unspoilt pistes, lit up solely by the light of the moon. Or head to the ice rink, made entirely of natural ice - open daily for the entire season.

It might be the end of the season but there's still plenty on in the resort, from music festivals up on the slopes and in resort, to live concerts in the bars and local venues. Also you can experience some cultural Savoyard events like the local market which takes place at the church square. You can pick up cheeses, meats and locally made products like honey and jams. Easter is also a time for chocolate, so keep an eye out for any bunny themed events in resort.

Take a look at our events calendar for more information on what's on in resort during April.

There's a lot more than just skiing or snowboarding in the area this month! Take a look at our events calendar for a full run down and check out all the things to do in resort.