Val Thorens

About Val Thorens

As one of the eight ski resorts in Les 3 Vallees (The Three Valleys) resorts, and highest in elevation, Val Thorens guarantees an unforgettable France ski vacation. The only way to truly appreciate the size and scope of this area is to compare it to the biggest North American resorts. Take Whistler, Mammoth, Squaw, Jackson Hole, and then throw in Vail and maybe Killington and Breckenridge, and you'd still have room left over in Les 3 Vallees.

With infinite terrain and the most sophisticated interconnected lift system in Europe, you could spend a lifetime exploring the limitless peaks and valleys, sampling all the delicious food at the fine French restaurants, and cruising through tiny villages without ever having to take off your skis. But of all of Les 3 Vallees resorts Val Thorens is the one you really want to ski at. As the highest ski resort in the Alps, over 10,500-plus feet, Val Thorens is a beacon for fresh snow. So be sure to bring your fat skis or powder board.

Val Thorens offers a pleasant, laid-back base village experience, with plenty of lodging options, namely ski in, ski out accommodations, and an overwhelming amount of off-mountain activities from tennis to squash to roller hockey, badminton, volleyball, swimming and indoor football (soccer). All thanks to an immense indoor sports complex.

How to get to Val Thorens

Getting to Val Thorens is easy and flexible, whether you're coming by car, train, plane, or bus. Drive up through Tarentaise or Maurienne, with parking and electric charging stations available. For train travelers, the Moûtiers – Salins – Brides-les-Bains station connects to the resort. 

Fly into nearby airports like Chambéry, Grenoble, Lyon-Saint-Exupéry or Geneva, with shuttle services available. The Val Thorens bus station welcomes buses, taxis, and VTCs, making transfers from stations and airports convenient. Luggage storage at the bus station lets you explore the resort freely upon arrival. 

Street parking is limited, but VALTHOPARC offers multiple covered parking options, which can be reserved online. A free shuttle bus runs a circular route through the resort every 20 minutes from 08:00 to 20:00, making it easy to navigate without your skis. 

Buses run four to five times daily for trips to nearby areas like Les Menuires and St Martin. If you’re venturing into the wider Three Valleys, buses from Méribel and Courchevel provide return options but be mindful of schedules. Taxis are available but pricey, so book in advance. For a luxurious touch, consider a helicopter transfer your Mountain Travel Expert can set up for you.

Skiing in Val Thorens

SKIING IN VAL THORENS, FRANCE

As the highest ski area within the largest ski resort in the world, you can bet that Val Thorens offers some of the best-advanced skiing on the planet. La Masse and Cime Caron areas provide more challenging runs and plenty of wide-open space above the tree line. This is the best on-piste area if there’s fresh snow. Intermediates can ski or board nearly everywhere due to the many blue and red runs, in fact, some of Val Thorens' black runs are great for advanced intermediates to challenge themselves.

Beginner Skiing in Val Thorens, France

Beginners, especially first-timers, will enjoy the gentle slopes at the bottom of the resort. The magic carpet is a complimentary lift. Plus, thanks to the resort’s altitude, beginners at Val Thorens enjoy better snow conditions than in other areas. Because of the base village’s comparably high locale, beginners can expect great snow conditions throughout the winter season. 

First-timers will want to spend most of their time on the convenient base area slopes which provide gentle, green terrain and several surface lifts (magic carpets)—which are complimentary. Once it’s time to move up a notch and challenge their skills, beginners have some longer green and blue runs to choose from that are just above the village. Be warned, fair weather skiers, Val Thorens can be quite cold mid-winter, so bundle accordingly or try to book your trip a bit later in the season. 

Expert Skiing in Val Thorens, France

Intermediates can expect incredible snow conditions on a Val Thorens ski vacation. The resort’s elevated locale ensures this. While the massive Les Trois Vallees ski resort, in its entirety, is one of Europe’s best resorts for intermediates, Val Thorens is specifically one of the best. The majority of Val Thorens’ runs are blue or easier reds. Intermediates have unimpeded access to the upper reaches of the resort, including the glacier off the Col and Glacier chairlifts. 

Looking at a trail map, it’s clear that every single chairlift accessed red or blue runs. More advanced intermediates should try their skills out on the runs off the Cime de Caron chairlift. Intermediates can easily ski to and from other neighboring resorts, since Trois Vallees mainly features blue and red runs. 

Because Val Thorens—and 3 Vallées in general—mostly features red and blue runs, experts will want to head for off-piste excursions, of which Val Thorens offers plenty. Ski.com recommends exploring Val Thorens—and any off-piste terrain, for that matter—with a professional guide. Speak or chat with one of our knowledgeable Mountain Vacation Experts for their recommendations of Val Thorens guides and tour operators. If you do ski on-piste there are a couple of don’t-miss black runs that are sure to get the blood pumping. For challenging moguls head to Variante and Falaise runs from the Grand Fond gondola. The Cascade chairlift also accesses some fun, steep runs.

Ski Schools & Tours

Whether you're new to the slopes or a seasoned pro, Val Thorens has something for everyone—skiers, snowboarders, free riders, and snowshoe hikers alike. Take advantage of our 14 ski schools providing lively group lessons or opt for personalized private sessions to perfect your skills. Book your lessons in advance via your Mountain Travel Expert to make the most of your time in the mountains. 

Val Thorens also offers advanced training in backcountry skiing, freeriding, hiking and high-altitude mountaineering. Our qualified and experienced instructors are here to support you every step of the way in your adventure. Get ready to explore and elevate your mountain experience! Need some help finding the right instructor to fit your needs? Please consult a Mountain Travel Expert.

Family vacations in Val Thorens

Val Thorens is the best for all winter enthusiasts, offering more than just skiing. With slopes framed by stunning landscapes, the resort provides activities like snowshoeing, local culinary experiences and even ziplining. Families can enjoy tobogganing, creative workshops, and ice skating. For the little ones, there's dog sledding and dedicated play areas. 

The Fun Park is a must-visit for kids, while adults can relax in cozy restaurants savoring Savoyard fondue. With a wide range of family-friendly activities and a welcoming atmosphere, Val Thorens ensures every visitor, young or old, has a memorable experience. Plan your adventure today and explore this magical resort!