Val Thorens Snow Report

Val Thorens (2,300m) is the highest ski resort in Europe. It also belongs to the largest lift-linked ski area in the world: the 3 Vallées (600km).  What's the skiing like? The ski area is 99% located above 2,000 metres and good snow conditions are almost guaranteed November to May. The Val Thorens/Orelle local ski area offers 150 kilometres of slopes - 78 pistes (11 green, 29 blue, 30 red and eight black). But more than just statistics the scenery is breathtaking: 32 fast, modern ski lifts, mean you spend more time on the slopes. The choice of itineraries on groomed slopes or off-piste are simply vast. Best suited to? All levels of skier/snowboarder. Advanced . . . The excellent snow quality make certain slopes a must for experienced skiers: Col, Mauriennaise, Col de l'Audzin, le Blanchot and Tétras. The more skilled can discover the red and black slopes of la Combe de Caron, la Combe de Rosaël and Boismint, in the larger 3 Vallées ski area. Moguls enthusiasts will enjoy the Cascades slope. Eight black and 30 red slopes offer a lot of snow adventure as well as many easily accessible off-piste possibilities to make the most of your stay. Freestylers are also spoilt with a world-class terrain park. Beginners/intermediates . . . In the heart of the domain there is a large area of easy skiing, equipped with four roof-covered magic carpets and free for beginners, allowing a gradual learning curve. Explore a wider area and take in the scenery at your own pace, there is a special ski pass for beginners to access eight ski lifts serving the easiest slopes - 50 percent off normal price. There are 11 green and 29 blue slopes of which the majority are perfectly groomed. The endless choice of long cruising runs towards Les Menuries and St. Martin are ideal for the intermediate skier. Park/Pipe The Snowpark (the Plateau sector) - 90 000 m² area divided in four zones: beginners, intermediate, expert and a Jump'Air (shock absorbing stunt man's mattress). There are different modules: whoops, wall ride, tables, handrails. The Boardercross (in the 2 Lacs sector) offers skiers and snowboarders the complete range thrills and spills. The Ski Cross Europe & French Cup and the Snowboard Cross French Cup is held there regularly. The Yannick Richard Stadium Slalom is currently organising slalom and giant slalom competitions after complete renovation and extension works. What's the resort like? It’s all doorstep skiing – you put your skis on at the exit of your accommodation. The resort is walkable and car free: you put your car in the car park when you get there and forget it until you leave. There’s a free shuttle bus circulating in the resort every 30 minutes. It is one village with all amenities in the same place, which means that you can access the shops and activities in less than five minutes on foot. Popular apres-ski venues include The Folie Douce and La Pandora with their sunny terraces and Mongolian Yurt at 2500m with awesome views. Non-skiing activities: There are plenty! A complete range of toboggan runs for all ages and the Fun Park at the sports centre features trampolines, a bouncy castle, swimming pool  . . . more than 600 square metres just for children. Downside? The ski area is a little stark due being above the tree line, but then the impressive views more than make up for it. Nearest airport(s): Chambery Savoie (120km/100mins); Geneva Airport (159km/150mins)