Best Things To Do For Skiers and Non Skiers in Val d’Isère
SKIERS
Thanks to its high altitude, Val d’Isere is probably your most snow-sure option for skiing in the French Alps. The village rests at 1850 metres and its peak on top of the La Grande Motte glacier is 3456 metres high. Sixty percent of the resort’s pistes is set above 2200 metres, meaning that the skiing is consistently good but on rare occasions, bad weather can cause the slopes to close. It’s also important to keep in mind that Val d’Isere isn’t the best choice if you’re just finding your feet on the snow, and beginners may well find themselves challenged. On the flipside, Val d’Isere is one of the top choices for experienced skiers and snowboarders, with plenty of challenging black runs (such as the iconic Face the Bellevarde, where the 1992 Olympic men’s downhill was run).
And to go with some of the most exciting and picturesque skiing in France, down in the village you’ll find some amazing bars and restaurants. What better way to celebrate conquering that tricky black run than by indulging in some equally entertaining après-ski? On the mountain itself, you can start your evening with DJ’s and live music at La Folie Douce until the lifts close and then work your way into town.
NON SKIERS
SNOW-SHOEING SKATING
Most of the walking paths are good for non-skiers maps are available in most chalets. Snow
Shoeing, Skating (The natural skating rink is located at the bottom of the nursery ski slopes)
PARAGLIDING
Experience the nearest feeling to flying you can get; ski off from the top of the Solaise summit you can tandem paraglide down to the bottom of the valley.
CROSS COUNTRY SKIING
There are 02 options with cross country: try the ‘skating’ type known for the more active who needs an aerobic workout exercise. For a slower pace, go for ‘classique’. Cross country equipment can be hired from our local hire shops.
THE LA CROISETTE SPORTS CENTRE
The La Croisette sports centre at Les Menuires, 8km up the valley and offers a swimming pool, spa area, gym and badminton and squash courts. There are also fitness classes available.
On certain days (Tuesday) you can join the yoga class in St Martin de Belleville,
SUANA, SWIMMING POOL & OXYGEN CENTRE
The new activity centre (OXYGEN) opened in Val d’Isere in the 09/10 season at the foot of the Bellevarde ski slope. Equipped with a 450m2 swimming pool, along with sauna and jacuzzi (payable locally) your ski pass entitles you to one free entry. The centre also includes a climbing wall, fitness suite, squash courts, multi-activity sports hall and spa. It is a perfect place to relax for those non-skiers or simply if the weather’s bad and you want to rest your tired limbs!
HUSKY SLEDDING
Husky sledding is a popular activity, it is a great way to view the valley. Learn to be a “musher” driving a pack of husky dogs, for a full or half day.
SIGHTSEEING PLANE TRIP
Take a sightseeing plane trip- For a whole new perspective of the astoundingly beautiful landscape, try taking one of these surprisingly good value plane rides. Planes carry up to 3 passengers and depart from the Altiport in Meribel.
TORCH LIT DESCENT
Watch the Val d’Isere ski instructors at night on a torch-lit descent down La Face. This spectacular can be enjoyed with a vin chaud, especially on a cold night. Not only will you see the torch-lit descent but they will be followed by a stunning firework display. It can vary which day this takes place so make sure you check with your chalet host.
DAY TRIP TO ANNECY
Take a day trip to Annecy- If you have your own car the day trip to Annecy couldn’t be easier, a little over an hour’s drive and you will find yourself in a lovely, traditional French town on the shores of a beautiful lake with a stunning backdrop of snowy mountains.