Val d’Isère: The complete guide to the resort for a mountain stay
Published on May 21, 2026 | Reading time: 20 min
By Laurine Baille, Marketing Project Manager at HOMANIE
Val d’Isère is a renowned ski resort in Savoie, nestled in the heart of the Alps and recognized as an exceptional winter sports destination. Connected to Tignes, its ski area offers more than 300 km of slopes with reliable snow conditions throughout the season. Elegant and welcoming in winter, the resort also attracts summer skiing enthusiasts on the Grande Motte glacier, while cyclists challenge themselves on the legendary Iseran Pass. Val d’Isère remains lively throughout the year, with much of its atmosphere centered around Avenue Olympique, home to many of the resort’s bars and restaurants.
Summary
Val d’Isère: An iconic resort in the French Alps
An alpine village that became an international destination
Originally, the village was a small Savoyard community living mainly from agriculture, livestock farming, and trade across Alpine mountain passes. Isolated for much of the year due to harsh weather conditions, Val d’Isère long preserved a traditional mountain way of life.
In the early 20th century, the rise of winter sports gradually transformed the village. The first ski enthusiasts quickly discovered the exceptional potential of its snowy slopes and ideal altitude. During the 1930s, tourism infrastructure began to develop with the opening of the first hotels and ski lifts. This period marked the birth of the modern resort, which soon attracted first a French clientele, and later an international one.
The development of skiing in Val d’Isère
After the Second World War, Val d’Isère experienced significant growth driven by the rise of Alpine tourism. The resort gradually modernized while preserving the traditional Savoyard architecture of its village. Its partnership with Tignes led to the creation of one of the largest ski areas in the Alps, now known as the Espace Killy, named in tribute to Olympic champion Jean-Claude Killy, an iconic figure closely associated with the resort.
Val d’Isère has also played an important role in the history of competitive skiing, hosting numerous international events, including the 2009 Alpine World Ski Championships. Today, the resort combines sporting prestige, high-end tourism, and authentic Alpine charm, while remaining deeply connected to its identity as a traditional mountain village.
Where is Val d’Isère located?
Val d’Isère in Savoie and the French Alps
Val d’Isère is located in the Savoie department, within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. The resort lies in the Tarentaise Valley, close to the Italian border and the famous Col de l’Iseran, the highest paved mountain pass in the Alps, reaching an altitude of over 2,700 meters.
Situated at approximately 1,850 meters above sea level, Val d’Isère enjoys an exceptional high-mountain setting, surrounded by snow-covered peaks and nestled within the Vanoise National Park. It is located around 85 kilometers from Albertville and approximately 140 kilometers from Chambéry.
The resort is neighboring Tignes, with which it forms one of the largest ski areas in the Alps.
Map of Val d’Isère and the ski area of Val d’Isère
How to get to Val d’Isère?
The closest airports to Val d’Isère
The nearest airports to Val d’Isère are Chambéry, Lyon, and Geneva, all offering regular winter connections to major European cities. Geneva is often the preferred choice due to its extensive range of international flights and numerous transfer options to Alpine resorts. From these airports, Val d’Isère can easily be reached by rental car, private transfer, or regular shuttle and bus services operating throughout the ski season.
Getting to Val d’Isère by train or car
Travelling by train is a convenient way to reach Val d’Isère, particularly from Paris, Lyon, and other major French cities. The nearest railway station is Bourg-Saint-Maurice, located approximately 30 kilometers from the resort. From there, shuttle services, taxis, and private transfers provide connections to Val d’Isère.
By car, the main access route follows the Tarentaise Valley through Albertville and Bourg-Saint-Maurice. The roads are well maintained, although winter equipment is essential during the colder months, particularly when mountain weather conditions become more challenging.
When is the best time to visit Val d’Isère?
Val d’Isère in Winter
During winter, from December to April, the resort reveals its full reputation with its vast ski area, reliable snow conditions, and lively atmosphere. This season attracts ski, snowboard, and mountain sports enthusiasts, particularly during school holidays and major sporting events.
Val d’Isère in spring
Spring offers a quieter atmosphere while still allowing visitors to enjoy the slopes thanks to the resort’s high altitude. Longer days and increased sunshine make this season especially enjoyable for combining skiing with relaxing moments on sunny terraces overlooking the Alpine peaks.
Val d’Isère in summer
In summer, Val d’Isère reveals an entirely different side. Lush landscapes, hiking trails, and outdoor activities attract nature and mountain lovers. It is an ideal time for hiking, mountain biking, climbing, or simply enjoying the Alpine setting in a more peaceful atmosphere than winter.
Val d’Isère in Autumn
Autumn remains a more discreet season, mainly attracting travelers seeking tranquility and wide open spaces before the return of winter. Each season has its own charm, although winter remains the most iconic time to fully experience the identity of Val d’Isère.
Weather in Val d’Isère throughout the seasons
During winter, from December to April, temperatures are cold and snowfall is abundant. Days alternate between snowfall, clear blue skies, and crisp mountain air, creating ideal conditions for skiing and winter sports. Thanks to its high altitude, Val d’Isère often enjoys excellent snow quality well into the season.
Spring gradually brings milder temperatures and increased sunshine. Mornings remain cool, while afternoons become more pleasant, particularly in March and April. This season still allows for skiing while offering a quieter and brighter atmosphere on the resort’s mountain terraces.
In summer, the resort enjoys a pleasant Alpine climate with mild days and cool evenings. Temperatures rarely reach the intense heat experienced in lower-altitude areas, making outdoor activities especially enjoyable. Hiking, mountain walks, and sporting activities take place in a lush setting dotted with lakes and surrounding peaks.
Autumn marks the return of a cooler and more peaceful atmosphere. The first snowfalls can begin appearing on the mountain summits towards the end of the season, while Alpine forests take on beautiful golden tones. This quieter time of year offers an authentic immersion into mountain landscapes before the arrival of winter in Val d’Isère.
Skiing in Val d’Isère: One of the finest ski areas in the Alps
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Connecting Val d’Isère and Tignes, the Espace Killy is considered one of the most renowned ski areas in the French Alps. Named in tribute to Olympic champion Jean-Claude Killy, it offers hundreds of kilometers of slopes suitable for all skill levels.
The ski area appeals equally to beginners and experienced skiers thanks to the diversity of its different sectors. High-altitude slopes ensure reliable snow conditions throughout much of the season, while the extensive lift network makes it easy to move between the various areas of the domain.
Among its iconic runs, the Face de Bellevarde holds a special place. Made famous during the 1992 Winter Olympics, it is known for its technical layout and steep vertical drop, making it a favorite among advanced skiers. The Solaise sector, by contrast, offers more accessible panoramic runs, ideal for discovering the surrounding Alpine scenery.
The Pisaillas Glacier area also attracts high-altitude skiing enthusiasts, with excellent snow conditions often lasting well into late spring.
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The Espace Killy offers a wide variety of terrain suited to freeriding, including wide powder slopes, untouched bowls, technical couloirs, and tree-lined descents. Areas such as Le Fornet, the Pisaillas Glacier, and La Daille are among the most renowned for exploring routes beyond marked pistes while enjoying exceptional views of the surrounding Alpine peaks.
Off-piste skiing in Val d’Isère requires solid mountain experience and constant awareness of avalanche risks and rapidly changing weather conditions. Using appropriate safety equipment, including an avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe, is essential for safely navigating these high-mountain environments.
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Cross-country skiing is mainly practiced in the dedicated areas around the village and the hamlet of Le Fornet. Suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers, these trails allow visitors to enjoy either skating or classic styles in a particularly scenic setting.
Ski touring has also become increasingly popular in Val d’Isère thanks to the diversity of its terrain and the beauty of its high-mountain routes. Skiers can explore mountain passes, glaciers, and peaks offering exceptional views across the Alps. Some routes are suitable for intermediate skiers with previous experience, while others require solid mountain expertise and a strong understanding of winter conditions.
Après-ki and resort life
Après-ski bars and terraces
At the foot of the slopes and throughout the village, numerous bars and restaurants welcome après-ski enthusiasts for drinks, Savoyard specialties, and open-air live performances. The terraces of La Daille, Bellevarde, and central Val d’Isère offer spectacular views over the snow-covered peaks, particularly in the late afternoon as the light begins to soften across the valley.
The atmosphere varies from one venue to another: some focus on a sophisticated and refined setting, while others create a more lively experience with DJ sets, live music, and entertainment continuing late into the evening. This diversity plays a major role in Val d’Isère’s reputation as a destination where sport, relaxation, and vibrant nightlife come together.
Shopping and the village center
The center of Val d’Isère is distinguished by its elegant atmosphere and the charm of a preserved Alpine village. Between traditional chalets, lively streets, and stone-and-wood façades, the resort has maintained an authentic identity while developing a refined offering tailored to its international clientele.
The village streets are home to numerous boutiques dedicated to mountain life and winter sports. Visitors will find ski shops, specialized technical equipment stores, and fashion boutiques offering clothing, accessories, and collections inspired by the Alpine lifestyle. Those interested in decoration and craftsmanship can also discover Savoyard products, local creations, and mountain-inspired pieces.
The center of Val d’Isère is also a pleasant place to stroll after skiing. Cafés, tea rooms, gourmet delicatessens, and restaurants all contribute to the warm atmosphere of the resort throughout the day. In the evening, illuminated streets and lively terraces further enhance the vibrant and welcoming character of the village.
Relaxation and wellness activities
Many luxury hotels and high-end establishments feature spas with heated pools, hammams, saunas, and jacuzzis overlooking spectacular snow-covered peaks. Body treatments, massages, and relaxation areas provide the perfect opportunity to unwind after a day of outdoor activities while enjoying the tranquility of the Alpine setting.
The Centre Aquasportif de Val d’Isère is also a popular place to relax with family or friends. It offers swimming pools, wellness facilities, and fitness spaces in a modern and welcoming environment.
Among the most appreciated wellness experiences are the Experimental Chalet Val d’Isère Spa, Hôtel Le Blizzard with its heated outdoor pool overlooking the mountains, Refuge de Solaise perched high on the mountain of the same name, the Airelles Val d’Isère Guerlain Spa, and the mountain-inspired atmosphere of Les Cabanes at Hôtel Val d’Isère.
What to do in Val d’Isère during your stay?
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Strolling through the heart of the resort is a wonderful way to discover its boutiques, restaurants, cafés, and mountain heritage in a welcoming atmosphere, particularly in the evening when the streets light up against the backdrop of snow-covered peaks.
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Alpine skiing remains the resort’s signature activity thanks to the slopes of the Espace Killy, but the destination also offers snowboarding, cross-country skiing, freeriding, and snowshoeing. Visitors can also enjoy more unique experiences such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, or sledding adventures.
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Located just a short distance from the resort, the Vanoise National Park is one of the greatest natural treasures of the French Alps. This vast protected area is home to remarkable wildlife and flora, including ibex, chamois, and marmots living among glaciers, valleys, and mountain peaks. Its many trails offer the opportunity to discover preserved landscapes and experience the beauty of high-mountain environments in an exceptional setting. The park attracts nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and hikers alike.
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From Val d’Isère, several Alpine resorts and mountain villages can easily be explored on a day trip or during a short stay. The Tarentaise Valley is home to some of the most famous mountain destinations in the French Alps, starting with Tignes, directly connected through the ski area. Les Arcs, La Plagne, Bonneval-sur-Arc, as well as Courchevel and Méribel, located in the heart of the Les Trois Vallées, are all within reach for a day excursion.
Must-see places in Val d’Isère
The old village and saint-bernard de menthon church
In the old village, narrow streets lined with stone and wooden chalets reflect the mountain heritage of the resort long before its development as a world-renowned destination. At the heart of the village, Saint-Bernard de Menthon Church stands as one of Val d’Isère’s main landmarks. With its distinctive bell tower and Savoyard Baroque architecture, it reflects Alpine traditions and the religious heritage of the Tarentaise Valley.
Face de Bellevarde
The Face de Bellevarde is undoubtedly the most iconic slope in Val d’Isère. Known worldwide for its technical course and impressive vertical drop, it regularly hosts international alpine skiing competitions. Made famous during the 1992 Winter Olympics, this legendary run attracts experienced skiers eager to take on one of the most renowned slopes in the French Alps.
Lac de l’Ouillette
Located in the Solaise sector, Lac de l’Ouillette offers a peaceful setting in the heart of the mountains. Accessible in both winter and summer, this high-altitude lake is admired for its waters surrounded by Alpine peaks. During summer, it becomes a popular stop for hikers and families, while in winter its snow-covered surroundings create a particularly spectacular atmosphere. Nearby terraces also provide the perfect place to enjoy the scenery in a calm and sunny setting.
The resort’s panoramic views
Thanks to its altitude and location in the heart of the Alps, Val d’Isère offers numerous exceptional viewpoints over the surrounding mountains. From areas such as Solaise, Bellevarde, or the Pisaillas Glacier, visitors can enjoy spectacular views across Alpine valleys, glaciers, and snow-covered ridgelines. Throughout the year, these grand landscapes play an essential role in the identity of the resort and remain one of the highlights of a stay in Val d’Isère.
The best restaurants in Val d’Isère
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La Table de l’Ours
100 Montée de Bellevarde, Val d’Isère - +33 4 79 41 37 00Located within Les Barmes de l’Ours hotel, this Michelin-starred restaurant is one of the most refined dining experiences in the resort. Its cuisine showcases mountain ingredients through an elegant and contemporary interpretation.
Restaurant L’Alpin
244 Avenue de Prariond, Val d’Isère - +33 7 87 97 22 01An intimate address appreciated for its carefully crafted cuisine and fine selection of Savoyard products revisited with a contemporary gastronomic approach.
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La Casserole
Rue du Coin, Val d'Isère - + 33 4 79 41 15 71A true institution in Val d’Isère for enjoying fondue, raclette, and other Savoyard specialties in a warm and authentic mountain atmosphere.
Le Grand Cocor
Résidence Grand Cocor, Front de Neige, Val d’Isère - +33 4 79 41 94 33A favorite among locals and ski instructors, this restaurant showcases classic Savoyard cuisine in an authentic and welcoming setting.
Poya
683 Avenue Olympique, Val d’Isère - +33 4 79 23 46 43A modern address inspired by Alpine cuisine, ideal for sharing generous dishes in a lively après-ski atmosphere.
Avancher Restaurant
554 Avenue du Prariond, Val d’IsèreThis restaurant highlights local products and traditional Savoyard recipes in a cozy and elegant setting.
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Café Bellevarde - Maison Louly
Roc de Bellevarde, Val d’Isère - +33 6 10 56 50 44Perched at the top of Bellevarde, this mountain restaurant is appreciated as much for its panoramic terrace as for its elegant and welcoming atmosphere. (Maison Louly).
La Folie Douce Val d’Isère
La Daille gondola area, Val d’Isère - +33 4 79 06 07 17An iconic après-ski destination in Val d’Isère, combining mountain dining, live music, and a festive atmosphere directly on the slopes.
La Cascade
Col de l’Iseran, D902, Val d’Isère - +33 6 09 75 84 48.Located at over 2,700 meters above sea level near the Pisaillas Glacier, this mountain chalet is renowned for its Savoyard specialties and exceptional views over the Alps.
Café Bellevarde - Maison Louly
Where to stay in Val d’Isère?
Homanie opens the doors to five luxury chalets in Val d’Isère, complete with a private chef and hotel-style services. Whether for a romantic escape, a family holiday, or a stay with friends, our luxury chalets provide all the comfort and amenities needed for an unforgettable Alpine experience.
Luxury chalet - Val d’Isère Village
Located in the heart of Val d’Isère, just a few steps from the village’s iconic church and the ski slopes, this exceptional chalet enjoys a rare setting, combining the lively atmosphere of the village center with immediate access to skiing. Designed to comfortably accommodate up to 14 guests, it features six bedrooms, including a dormitory-style room, along with a spacious light-filled living area offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere extended by a balcony. After a day on the slopes, guests can unwind with premium facilities including an indoor swimming pool, sauna, massage room, and a private cinema room equipped with a PS5.
For complete relaxation throughout your stay, a dedicated chalet manager is available to assist with any requests, while a private chef is present daily for breakfast, afternoon tea, aperitifs, and dinner (except on Wednesdays, when breakfast service only is provided).
Luxury chalet - Val d’Isère Alaska
Overlooking Val d’Isère from its privileged setting, this chalet is just a short chauffeur-driven shuttle ride from the ski front and the resort’s renowned boutiques and restaurants. It seamlessly combines traditional Alpine touches with contemporary design and premium amenities, including a home cinema, wellness area with an indoor swimming pool, sauna, massage room, and relaxation space. The impressive cathedral-style living area with a fireplace and dining space opens onto a large terrace featuring a jacuzzi. The chalet accommodates up to 15 guests across seven en-suite bedrooms.
This property is offered with a private chef preparing meals on a half-board basis, including beverages, as well as a private chauffeur-driven minibus service within the resort.
Luxury Chalet - Val d’Isère Bellevarde
Overlooking the legendary Olympic slope of Bellevarde and located just a three-minute walk from the ski slopes, this chalet enjoys an exceptional location only a few steps from the heart of Val d’Isère, with its boutiques, restaurants, and lively atmosphere. Behind its warm Alpine architecture lies a spacious 450 m² interior where tradition meets modern comfort. The chalet features five elegant en-suite bedrooms and can accommodate up to ten guests in a refined setting. After a day on the slopes, unwind in the wellness area with a jet pool and hammam, or gather in the impressive cathedral-style living room around the stone fireplace and large convivial dining table. With its premium amenities and tailor-made services, Homanie Val d’Isère Bellevarde offers all the ingredients for an exclusive stay in the heart of one of the finest ski areas in the Alps. A neighboring chalet can also be rented in addition, accommodating 10 extra guests across five additional bedrooms.
Among the included services, guests can comfortably collect and try on their ski equipment in the ski room, enjoy a ready-to-use hammam and fireplace, and rely on a dedicated chalet manager for any requests throughout their stay.
Luxury chalet - Val d’Isère La Balme
Nestled within an exclusive estate, this chalet offers breathtaking views across the entire valley. The slopes, shops, and nightlife are just three minutes away by private chauffeur-driven shuttle. The chalet accommodates up to 15 guests across seven en-suite bedrooms, including a master suite. The spectacular double-height cathedral-style living space, featuring a mezzanine, bar, and fireplace, opens onto a terrace with a jacuzzi that undoubtedly enjoys one of the finest views in the valley. Generous spaces, noble materials, and refined design are the defining features of this exceptional chalet. An elevator, indoor swimming pool with waterfall and counter-current system, hammam, massage room, fitness room, and private cinema complete this exclusive property.
This property is offered on a half-board basis, including beverages, as well as a private chauffeur-driven minibus service.
Luxury Chalet - Val d’Isère Rocher
Perched in the hamlet of Les Fermes de Val, this chalet blends traditional Alpine charm with contemporary refinement. Just a few steps from the slopes and the lively heart of Val d’Isère, it offers a peaceful setting designed for relaxation. Spanning 430 m², the chalet accommodates up to 12 guests across six en-suite bedrooms. The generous living space, featuring a fireplace and noble materials, embraces the mountain spirit without compromising on comfort. After a day on the slopes, unwind in the heated swimming pool, relax in the hammam, or enjoy the terrace overlooking the surrounding peaks. A true winter retreat designed for sharing exceptional moments with family and friends, offering discreet luxury in the heart of the Alps. A neighboring chalet, along with two additional chalets located on the same street, can also be rented as an extension, allowing accommodation for an additional 18 guests with respectively five bedrooms and two sets of four bedrooms.
Among the included services, guests can comfortably collect and try on their ski equipment in the ski room, enjoy a ready-to-use hammam and fireplace, and rely on a dedicated chalet manager for any requests throughout their stay. Breakfast and afternoon tea are prepared daily, while a chauffeur service is available upon request and subject to availability.
Practical tips for planning your stay in Val d’Isère
How many days should you spend in Val d’isère?
For a short 2–3 day getaway, it is possible to enjoy the atmosphere of the village, discover a few areas of the ski domain, and experience the resort’s iconic après-ski scene. This format is particularly suited to a sporty escape or a relaxing break in the heart of the Alps.
A stay of 4–5 days allows more time to explore the Espace Killy, enjoy a wider range of activities, and discover the different areas and viewpoints of the resort at a more relaxed pace. This duration is often ideal for combining skiing, wellness experiences, mountain restaurants, and excursions nearby.
For mountain and winter sports enthusiasts, a full week remains the ideal option. It provides enough time to explore the entire ski area connecting Val d’Isère and Tignes, enjoy non-ski activities, and discover the Alpine landscapes without rushing. During summer as well, a week offers the opportunity to combine hiking, cycling, relaxation, and discovering the Vanoise National Park in a more peaceful setting.
How to get around the resort?
In Val d’Isère, getting around is relatively easy thanks to the compact layout of the village and infrastructure designed with visitors in mind. Much of the resort can be explored on foot, particularly the village center where shops, hotels, restaurants, and ski lift departures are concentrated. This pedestrian-friendly atmosphere contributes greatly to the charm and comfort of a stay in the resort.
Free shuttle buses also operate between the different areas of the resort, including La Daille, Le Fornet, and central Val d’Isère. They make it easy to reach the slopes, accommodations, and main facilities without using a car, which is particularly convenient during winter when driving conditions can become more challenging.
For skiers, ski lifts also play an essential role in daily travel between the different sectors of the ski area and towards Tignes. During summer, some routes also remain accessible to pedestrians and cyclists wishing to enjoy the mountain scenery.
A car can be useful for reaching nearby villages or exploring the Tarentaise Valley, but it often becomes secondary once settled in the resort. Several indoor and outdoor parking facilities are available for visitors staying in Val d’Isère.
What budget should you plan for a stay in Val d’Isère?
The budget for a stay in Val d’Isère can vary significantly depending on the season, the level of comfort desired, and the activities selected. The resort is considered one of the most prestigious Alpine destinations in the French Alps, offering accommodation ranging from practical apartments to luxury hotels.
For accommodation, travelers can generally expect to pay between €120 and €250 per night for a mid-range hotel during winter, while high-end establishments can easily exceed several hundred euros per night during peak season. Some luxury hotels may even reach several thousand euros per night during the most sought-after periods. Rental apartments can often help reduce costs, especially for family holidays or stays with friends.
Ski passes also represent a significant part of the budget. For the Espace Killy linking Val d’Isère and Tignes, a six-day adult ski pass costs approximately €430–450 during the 2025–2026 high season. Ski equipment rental may add between €150 and €300 per week depending on the selected range.
For dining, simple meals can be found for around €20–30, while fine dining restaurants and mountain establishments can quickly increase the overall budget. Additional activities such as spa treatments, ski lessons, off-piste experiences, or après-ski activities also contribute to the total cost of the stay.
During summer, prices are generally more accessible, particularly for accommodation and activities, allowing visitors to discover the mountains with a more moderate budget.
Val d’Isère: Answers to all your questionS
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Val d’Isère generally opens at the end of November and remains accessible until the beginning of May.
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Val d’Isère is a destination particularly well suited to families, both in winter and summer. The resort has been awarded the Famille Plus certification, which recognizes destinations offering facilities, services, and activities designed specifically for children and parents.
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Val d’Isère is well suited to beginner skiers, even though the resort has historically been known for its more challenging slopes and sporting reputation. The Solaise sector and the snow front area are among the most recommended places to start. They feature several wide and accessible green and blue runs, as well as free ski lifts such as Savonnette and Village. The ValKids areas and “Easy Skiing” zones also help beginners learn in a safer and more comfortable environment, with gentler routes designed for families and first-time skiers.
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The resort’s most iconic event remains the Critérium de la Première Neige. This legendary stage of the Alpine Ski World Cup brings together the world’s top skiers on the famous Face de Bellevarde and the Oreiller-Killy slope.
In spring, the Festival International du Film Aventure & Découverte attracts travelers, athletes, and exploration enthusiasts.
During summer, the mountains become a playground for trail running enthusiasts with the High Trail Vanoise.
