About Activities in Val Thorens

Top things to do in Val Thorens

Below are our three favourite activities in Val Thorens but there are plenty more to choose from.

1. Winter sports, skiing and snowboarding

Skiing and snowboarding are probably the most popular activities in Val Thorens. But we're not talking about lift-assisted, downhill skiing and snowboarding only – there's a whole host of activities that involve boards strapped onto your feet, including ski touring and splitboarding, cross-country skiing or telemarking. But there's much more than just skiing and snowboarding in Val Thorens in the winter. The Les Menuires mountains are the perfect setting to go snowshoeing and husky-dog sledging, while the ice skating rink in Val Thorens town centre will keep the whole family entertained.

2. Mountain biking

 The trails in Val Thorens attract hundreds of enduro and downhill biking aficionados every summer to its almost 120km of tracks, which meander through lush forests to reach stunning mountaintops with breathtaking views. An experience not to be missed!

3. Walking, hiking and running

 In the summer Val Thorens pistes turn into meadows and deep forested trails to explore on foot. From easy valley strolls to gruelling trail running climbs, everyone can explore the Val Thorens valley areas beautiful sunny landscapes.

 Check out the selection of things to do below for some holiday inspiration – you'll see that there are plenty of alternatives to skiing and snowboarding in Val Thorens.

Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding in Val Thorens

Val Thorens sits high in the French Alps and is part of the Three Valleys ski area. It provides access to more than 600 kilometres of marked pistes for all abilities, from beginners to experts. The resort has several ski schools and user-friendly lifts, making it easy to navigate the mountain. You’ll find a variety of gentle slopes, steeper runs and off-piste terrain. Its high altitude also ensures reliable snow-sure conditions throughout the season.

See our Ski Areas, Pistes & Parks

Climbing in Val Thorens

Val Thorens offers a range of climbing experiences for all levels, from natural rock faces and secure Via Ferrata routes to spectacular ice climbs in winter. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the basics with a guide or a more experienced climber after a challenge, there's something here for you.

Via Ferrata is a great option if you want the thrill of climbing with a bit more security, and ice climbing offers a dramatic alternative to skiing during the winter months. Equipment can be hired in resort and guided trips are easy to arrange, making it simple to get started.

See our Climbing Guide

Culture and guided tours in Val Thorens

In Val Thorens, you can explore the mountains on donkey trekking adventures where these friendly animals carry your picnic and kids along scenic trails. For a family day out, visit local farms to help feed animals, see cheese being made, and learn about mountain farming traditions. Don’t miss the weekly summer markets nearby for fresh Alpine produce and baked goods. For a unique evening, enjoy a traditional meal in a mountain yurt at the top of the Cascades chairlift, perfect for groups looking to relax after a day on the slopes.

See our Sights & Sites

Cycling in Val Thorens

Cycling

Riding in the Alps is much more demanding than your favourite local route back in the UK. The roads around Val Thorens are the setting for some of the most gruelling sections of the Tour de France, but they can be tackled by enthusiasts as well as the professionals. To gain the most from your riding in the area it goes without saying you need to have a reasonable level of fitness. You do not need to be a super man or woman, but the ability to ride comfortably for up to three to four hours in the UK should see you enjoy the mountain routes.
If you've brought your bike with you, then you can just get on the road and challenge your fitness as you climb some of the Alps most famous mountain 'cols' at no cost. Those in need of wheels will be glad to know that renting a carbon road bike is easy in the hire shops in the resort.

See our Cycling Guide

Fishing in Val Thorens

Lake fishing

If you fancy a spot of fishing whilst in Val Thorens then there are a few local and nearby lakes where you can catch some fish and enjoy the Alpine scenery. There are many altitude lakes in the area and a multitude of small rivers at the Belleville valley, including the famous Les Bruyères lake which is full of trout and carp. You must, however, ensure that you have the correct fishing permit and are aware of the local fishing regulations.

Fitness and swimming in Val Thorens

In Val Thorens you’ll find gyms in both the resort and nearby Les Menuires, where you can buy single entry passes or weekly deals to keep active. For swimming, many hotels and chalets have pools, plus there’s an aquatic centre with pools and a spa in Les Bruyeres, often included with your lift pass. Whether summer or winter, there’s usually somewhere to swim, so don’t forget your towel and swimwear. If you enjoy team sports, you can play basketball and football at the multi-sport courts and sports centres in Val Thorens and Les Menuires.

Flying in Val Thorens

Take to the skies above Val Thorens and see the mountains from a whole new angle. You can join a panoramic helicopter flight and enjoy views over snowcapped peaks, glaciers and alpine forests. If you’re feeling more adventurous, try paragliding – you’ll be securely attached to an instructor as you glide from the mountain tops down into the valley below. On calmer days, hot air balloon rides offer a peaceful way to take in the scenery. All activities are weather dependent and run with qualified professionals.

Golf in Val Thorens

Golf

There is a 9 and 18 hole mini-golf course at Les Menuires, at the Foret des Aventuriers, open every day in July and August. Adults and children are welcome to play.

There is an 18-hole mini golf course in Saint Martin de Belleville that is open every day in July and August. Adults and children are welcome to play. A discount is offered at this golf course with the summer Ascension Passport.

Indoor activities in Val Thorens

Val Thorens has plenty of indoor activities for days when the weather keeps you off the slopes. Try your hand at bowling on one of eight neon-lit lanes or head to the games room for billiards, video games and table football. If you fancy a film, the local cinemas show a mix of new releases, with screenings most evenings and some in the afternoon when the weather is bad. Look out for VOST if you're after English-language films.

See our Indoor Activities Guide

Mountain-biking & Fat-biking in Val Thorens

Mountain biking

Val Thorens is a Mecca for mountain biking, with varying terrain and fantastic views it is perfect for mountain biking enthusiasts. With the whole of the mountain area to explore, Val Thorens is a great place for biking as the different and varied terrains suit bikers of all levels. Whether you enjoy a leisurely cycle around some of the lower-level trails, or a day's hardcore downhill is more your ‘thing’, Val Thorens has something to suit all tastes.
If you have all the gear and all you want is to access the trails, then you'll only need a lift pass. For bike hire, you can rent a hardtail or full-suspension mountain bike or an electric mountain bike for a day, few days or week. You may want to get a private guide to show you around the local trails.

Fat biking

Once the pistes are closed, the mountain is empty and the sun is setting, you would think the only thing happening would be piste grooming.... Well not in Val Thorens!! Now you can race down the empty slopes on a mountain bike with fat wheels. Grab the lift up and race, bump, slide and enjoy your descent down the 6km of snowy mountain on two wheels. At the bottom of your run you get offered a cheeky little glass of mulled wine - making the run down just that much better! Tickets and information for this experience can be purchased at the Chalet Toboggan at the Rond Point des Pistes.

See our Mountain Biking Guide

Snow and ice activities in Val Thorens

There’s more to do on the snow in Val Thorens than just skiing and snowboarding. Many other activities on the snow and ice offer a fun way to explore the mountains at a different pace. Try snowshoeing along marked trails or join a guided outing to discover quieter parts of the valley. For something more adventurous, you can go glacier walking with crampons and a guide, or head out on a husky sled ride through the snow-covered forest. Families and thrill seekers will love the 6km toboggan run, open during the day and in the evening, while classic sledging is a simple way to enjoy the snow with minimal kit.

Spas and massages in Val Thorens

If it is calm and relaxation you are after then head to a luxury day spa or book in for massage therapies and beauty treatments. A day spa is also the perfect activity when the weather turns. You can keep warm and revive aching muscles in saunas, steam rooms and jacuzzis or take a refreshing dip in a swimming pool. Unwind, relax and indulge.

Tennis and racket sports in Val Thorens

Tennis

Tennis is a great way to get the legs moving and to enjoy the sunny summertime weather. You can play a friendly game or have a lesson, whatever you choose to do it is a great way to have fun with friends and family. The sports centres at Val Thorens and Les Menuires have nine and 13 outdoor tennis courts each. You can also rent all your equipment there.

Badminton and Squash

You can play badminton and squash at one of the sports centres, either in Val Thorens or down in Les Menuires.

See our Sports Centres

Walking, hiking and running in Val Thorens

In both summer and winter, Val Thorens is a great place to explore on foot. When the snow melts, the surrounding mountains open up to a variety of walking and hiking routes, from gentle family-friendly trails to longer full-day hikes with stunning views and alpine wildlife. In winter, a network of groomed paths and lift access makes it easy to get around without skis. All you need is a good pair of boots and warm layers. Walking poles and boot grippers can help on icier stretches, especially if you’re venturing a little higher.

See our Hiking & Walking Guide

Watersports in Val Thorens

In the summer months, you can cool off near Val Thorens with a variety of watersports. Options include white water rafting, canoeing, canyoning and hydrospeeding on rivers fed by glacial meltwater. Whether you’re after the rush of racing rapids or tackling natural water slides and jumps, there’s something for all abilities. Most activities are guided by professionals and provide all the necessary equipment, so you can just enjoy the experience.

See our Watersports Guide