Val Thorens is the highest resort in the French Alps and thus has a certain amount of prestige amongst those who frequent the ski resorts of Europe. As you would expect from such a literally, high end resort there is a huge range of accommodation options. Sibuet Hotels and Spas are one of the best respected names in the region and the gorgeous 88 bedroomed Hotel Altapura is the latest member of their family.
This new concept hotel is set just back from the lively, and noisy, resort centre and offers all its guests a superb ‘ski in ski out‘ experience. Cleverly positioned right next door to the best slopes and only a short walk from the centre of the village so you can indulge in the best Après-ski in France, the Hotel Altapura is a very special accommodation.
From the moment you enter anyone of the rooms or suites the striking Nordic influence is clear to see in the contemporary décor. As we mentioned earlier this is a concept hotel, and by this we mean this has been designed to offer the best possible comforts and amenities for skiers. Every minute detail has been put in place to ensure that every slope bound thrill lover has a good a time off the piste as on it.
The Trois Vallées in renowned for its eco-friendliness and commitment to preserving this unique environment and never was this more in evidence than in the construction of the Hotel Altapura. From the exterior clad in solar panels to the Nordic ambience inside with its use of natural materials, this is the accommodation of choice for the ethically orientated skier.
That’s not to say it doesn’t boast the very latest technology however, as this hotel has ensured that its guests are catered for it every shape or form. With both iPod/iPhone docking stations and Mac Mini’s in the rooms you can keep in touch with the outside world as little or as much as you want. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the Hotel Altapura which is well used by those guests who want their friends back home to share their experience via social media.
The majority of the rooms boast awe inspiring views of the surrounding mountainous landscape and are tastefully furnished and decorated. The cool clean lines and neutral colour palate carry on into the rooms from the communal areas giving the whole hotel a an atmosphere as crisp and fresh as the air outside.
The Hotel Altapura ensures it guests have the best gastronomic choice by offering them a choice of this inhouse eateries. Les Enfants Terribles is a chic and stylish brasserie with outstanding views. A gourmet tour of the best cuisines in the world awaits those who choose to dine in the Deux Mille Trois whilst those who wish to sample local delicacies and specialities should head to La Laiterie.
Other features of this sublime hotel include the opportunity to either rent or buy the very best winter sports equipment and attire without even leaving the hotel. After a long day on the slopes the perfect way to relax and unwind is in the superb 1000sqm spa which includes such facilities as a steam room, sauna, gym, igloo and indoor/outdoor pool.
It is good to see that when resorts with such a history as Val Thorens make any additions to their village they do it with style and elegance. The Altapura is an absolute delight and set to become one of the firm favourites amongst the ski set.
The Statistics
How many Stars: 5* Hotel
Sleeps: 88 rooms
Closeness to the piste: Ski in Ski out
Resort location: Quarter Arolles
Style: Contemporary décor
Swimming Pool: Yes
Spa: Yes
Michelin Stars: none
Specialness: Great restaurant selection
Internet: Free WiFi
Disabled Facilities: Yes
Pets allowed: No
Our rating: 4/5