If you’re wondering where to book your next ski holiday, here’s your answer: Val Thorens. It’s not just high, it’s the highest ski resort in Europe. But altitude is only the start. Whether you’re after waist-deep powder, epic views, buzzing après or serious ski mileage, Val Thorens ticks every box (and then some).
Here’s why skiing in Val Thorens should be at the top of your list this season.
So, What’s it Really Like Skiing in Val Thorens?
1. Snow You Can Bank On
Val Thorens sits at a mighty 2,300m, which means the snow sticks around longer and falls deeper than in most resorts. From late November through May, it’s one of the most snow-sure destinations in Europe. You’ll be cruising corduroy while others are dodging bare patches.
Want quieter slopes and better value? Go for late January or March, these weeks (think 20th Jan, 17th, 24th or 31st March) often serve up peak conditions without the peak crowds or prices.
2. 600 km of Pure Ski Freedom
Val Thorens isn’t just great on its own; it gives you direct access to the full Three Valleys ski area. That’s a whopping 600km of pistes, linking into Méribel, Courchevel, Les Menuires and more. One lift pass, endless possibilities.
Fancy mixing it up? Drop over into the quieter Orelle valley, known for its open powder bowls and panoramic views.
3. A Playground for Every Level
Beginner? Laps of the green and blue runs will build your confidence fast. Intermediate? Dive into cruisey reds and scenic tree-lined descents. Advanced? Hit the black runs, mogul fields, off-piste itineraries, or book a guide and seek out the fresh stuff.
The layout of Val Thorens means groups of mixed ability can easily meet up throughout the day. Ski apart, lunch together with no stress.
4. Not Just Skiing
You’re not chained to your skis 24/7. From snowshoe trails to 7km toboggan runs, indoor climbing walls to spa days, Val Thorens serves up plenty of off-slope action. There’s even a sports centre with trampolines, swimming and bowling, perfect for rest days or family time.
5. Après That Starts on the Chairlift
Val Thorens après ski has a reputation, and trust us, it’s earned. As the lifts wind down, the party winds up at La Folie Douce. Think DJs, dancing, champagne, and alpine chaos. Prefer something more relaxed? Head to Le Monde, Bar 360, or sip vin chaud on a chalet balcony as the sun dips behind the peaks.
6. Enjoy Chalet Life, the Easy Way
When you book a Skiworld catered chalet, you don’t just get a bed near the slopes, you get the full package: hearty breakfasts, afternoon cakes, and three-course dinners with wine. Your hosts take care of everything, so you can focus on the skiing (and the hot tub, and the après…).
Meet our chalets in Val Thorens:
- Chalet Capricorne – sleeps 8-9
- Chalet Libra – sleeps 6
- Chalet Sagittaire – 8-9
- Chalet Verseau – sleeps 6
Ready to Book? Tick Skiing in Val Thorens Off Your Bucket List
The best weeks to ski Val Thorens this season include:
- 20th Dec (Christmas in the Alps, anyone?)
- 3rd Jan (quiet slopes and fresh resolutions)
- 17th, 24th, 31st Jan (perfect snow, great value)
- 28th Feb, 14th, 21st, 28th March (longer days, deep snow)
- 4th & 11th April (sunshine skiing with high-altitude conditions)
Whether you’re chasing powder days, bluebird skies, or your best ski break yet, Val Thorens delivers every time.
A Skier’s Guide to… Val Thorens
Like many people here, Ryan is happiest in the mountains – skiing is his greatest passion. Lucky enough to have skied in over 30 resorts in Europe, Canada and the USA, he loves nothing more than travelling and discovering new mountains to explore on his telemark skis. Bring on the next bluebird powder day!
Other articles you may like:
The Top 6 High Altitude Snow-Sure Ski Resorts
Skiing at Christmas vs. New Year: Which is Better?