The Ultimate Guide to Skiing in the Three Valleys

The Three Valleys, or Les Trois Vallées, is a world-renowned destination for skiing fans. Located in the French Alps, it boasts the title of the largest interconnected ski area globally. This region’s variety of slopes and range of resorts make it a top choice for skiers of all levels.

Whether you’re seeking high-adrenaline thrills or a family-friendly winter getaway, the Three Valleys offers something for everyone.

The Three Valleys: The Largest Ski Area in the World

The Three Valleys is celebrated as the biggest ski area in the world, with over 600 km of pistes stretching across eight resorts. Its world-class reputation stems from its ability to cater to everyone, from beginners to expert skiers.

As well as skiing, the Three Valleys also offers a range of activities like snowshoeing, ice skating, and dog sledding, ensuring there’s plenty to do on a snow holiday here.

The main resorts in the Three Valleys are Val Thorens, Courchevel, Méribel, and Les Menuires. These interconnected resorts offer direct access to a broad range of slopes, making the area a prime destination for skiers. Each resort has its own unique character and charm, meaning every visitor can find the perfect fit for their preferences and skill level.

Val Thorens

Val Thorens is a jewel in the crown of the Three Valleys, sitting at an altitude of 2,300m, making it the highest ski resort in Europe and a go-to choice for snow seekers throughout the season.

Intermediate and advanced skiers will find plenty to challenge them here, with steeper runs and fantastic off-piste options.

As well as impressive action on the slopes, a Val Thorens ski holiday also offers a lively après-ski scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants, as well as outstanding accommodation. You can enjoy high-end chalets or ski-in/ski-out hotels with breathtaking views of the Alps.

Courchevel

Courchevel is synonymous with luxury, attracting a clientele looking for exclusive, high-end getaways. Here, premier skiing seamlessly blends with sumptuous experiences away from the pistes.

Skiing is available for all abilities, from beginner-friendly green slopes to challenging black runs for the more advanced. It’s a great choice for mixed groups or families with differing levels of ski experience.

For a break from snow sports, upscale amenities, including Michelin-starred restaurants, designer boutiques, and luxurious spas, await.

Méribel

Méribel’s central location makes it a perfect base for exploring the Three Valleys. It’s a resort known for its traditional alpine architecture and cosy chalets, offering an authentic mountain village feel.

The range of ski runs here suits everyone from beginners to advanced skiers. Families will particularly appreciate Méribel’s friendly atmosphere, extensive accommodation options, and après-ski options, with plenty of child-friendly activities and family-focused venues.

Les Menuires

Les Menuires is a fantastic choice for beginners and families. With wide, gentle slopes and excellent ski schools, it’s a great place for younger skiers or first-timers to gain confidence on the snow. The resort’s laid-back atmosphere, family-oriented activities, and affordable accommodation options make it a top destination for those seeking a relaxed, low-key ski holiday.

If you’re planning on hitting the slopes, the Three Valleys has something to suit everyone.

Andy Higgs
Andy Higgs

I know what it's like to go from being a crazy backpacker without a care in the world, via being a vaguely sensible parent to being an adventurer once more. In other words, evolving into a Grown-up Traveller.

Like everyone else, I love to travel, have visited a lot of countries and all that but my big thing is Africa.

I also own and run The Grown-up Travel Company as a travel designer creating personalised African itineraries for experienced adventurers

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