Val D'Isere, France

Click here to see a map of Val D'Isere

Description of Val D'Isere:

Perhaps one of the best known resorts in France, Val D'Isere certainly lives up to its reputation as being the "Mecca of Skiing". Ever since 1934, when the first poma lift was installed, Val has become famous for it's ability to satisfy every grade of skier and as a training ground for new champions. Almost every year, the area continues to spread and add new lifts and connections. The present situation combines Val D'Isere and Tignes on one lift pass and offers over 180 miles of runs serviced by 116 lifts, not one of which is a T-bar! In addition, there are at least as must off-piste possibilities providing exhilarating experiences for the powder hounds. But, as we said, there is something for all levels here.

Beginners will lik the areas at Aolaise and the bottom of th Bellavarde. After a few days, they can progress up to some high altitude easy green runs on the glacier at Le Fornet and on the top of Bellavarde. Intermediates will find a virtual plethora of choices, many of which are very long ad gentle, spreading throughout the Val and Tignes "L'espace Kill" circuit. Experts will savor the chance to ski the wide selection of mogulfields and off-piste runs. For a real challenge, off-piste skiing at the Col Pers, Le Grand Vallon, and the Tour du Charvet will give you a run for your money.

Obviously, with this kind of dedication to skiing, Val D'Isere is a resort for the skier. Non-skiers will not find much to do here unless just being such a beautiful winter sports resort is to your liking.

Apres-ski like usually begins at Dick's Tea Bar and the Playback, and cater to mainly English-speaking crowds. The typical French discos of Club 21 or the Knack, you can dance the night away if your legs can handle anymore abuse. Other activities such as hang-gliding, and parascending are available and those are not quite taken with these sports can enjoy the municipal swimming pool and the natural ice-skating rink. Cross-country skiers will find 12 miles of prepared trails to enjoy, and winter walkers will find many paths to try. You could even participate in snowshoe excursions into the deep powder.

Be sure to visit the old church while you are in town. It is over 1000 years old, and is dedicated to those whose lives have been claimed by the mountains. Why not extend your ski vacation to Val D'Isere by taking advantage of our optional tour to Paris before returning home? What's another 3 days anyway? You can buy a great sweatshirt from the Sorbonne and tell your friends that you took a few short courses in Paris and a lot of long ones in Val D'Isere.