Accommodation in the premier ski resort of Val Thorens is vast and varied to say the least. Traditional chalet type hotels rub shoulders with contemporary boutique hotels to give visitors an eclectic mix choice. Every now and again, however, one will really jump out at you for the not only the inventiveness of its design but its desire to bring something different to the table. In this case it is the Hotel le Hameau du Kashmir.

The hotel takes its name from Kashmir region of north west India, set high in the Himalayas. The rocky landscape here consists of towering mountains permanently covered in snow; sound familiar? This hotel was designed to incorporate these far eastern influences with what is on offer in the Savoie, creating a unique ambience for those looking for somewhere to make their trip to Val Thorens that extra bit special.

Located at the resort entrance, Le Hameau du Kashmir enjoys uninterrupted and panoramic views of its spectacular surroundings, as well as catching the best of the sun. The hotel consists of several buildings to create a hameau; hamlet. These surround a centrally located quadrangle and have been positioned in tiers to ensure harmony with their backdrop of snow covered slopes. The interiors have been decorated in the vibrant colours of the Kashmir region and offer visitors a warm, welcoming and very stylish guest experience.

There are 57 apartments and suited in total within this mini resort which sleep from between 4 and 8 people, each one tastefully created to give you a real haven to retreat to after a long day on the mountains. The vision of the hotel is to offer all its guest lifestyle with luxury and manages to strike that fine balance between a traditional hotel and the homely aspect that comes from private accommodation.

Make no mistake this one very upmarket hotel that really goes that extra mile to ensure every guest has the best possible experience. It is also a very family friendly hotel which makes the well being of both parents and their children a top priority. The spaces and services have been designed with families in mind and anyone who has been told in the past to keep their children quiet or to stop them running around will appreciate having somewhere to stay where children are allowed to be children. There is even a ski in ski out facility offering direct access onto the Plein Sud slope which is a great piste.

The vision of the hotel is to offer all its guest lifestyle with luxury

The hotel Le Hameau du Kashmir boasts 2 top class restaurants which are firm favourites with the Val Thorens crowd. Le Yack is billed as a beef lovers paradise and it’s guaranteed that you have never visited a steakhouse quite like this one. Whether you want to enjoy the sunshine at lunch time or looking for a hearty dish to round of the day this restaurant is one of the best in town, and guests have it right on their doorstep; literally.

Le Karmin is the second restaurant and can be accessed directly from the slopes. The terrace offers diners spectacular views over the valley and is the perfect place to kick off your boots, sit back and soak up the atmosphere. Breakfast is served buffet style and those who want a quiet drink once the kids are asleep can spend a bit of me time in le Bar. Add the spa in the mix and everything else on offer at Le Hameau du Kashmir and you have one very special hotel.

The Statistics

How many Stars: 5* Hotel

Sleeps: 57 apartments

Closeness to the piste: Ski in Ski out

Resort location: Quarter Arolles, Bottom of resort

Style: Very modern

Swimming Pool: Yes

Spa: Yes

Michelin Stars: none

Specialness: A Ski Hotel but done a little differently

Internet: Free WiFi

Disabled Facilities: Yes

Pets allowed: No

Our rating: 5/5

Right at the heart of Val Thorens, nestled at the top of the Three Valleys, stands Le Hotel Fitz Roy. As one of the most renowned hotels in the world’s largest ski area, a stay at le Fitz Roy brings with it a great deal of expectation. As with many hotels with a formidable reputation for quality service and luxury, one might think that le Fitz Roy has the potential to be somewhat underwhelming for some of the more potentially presumptuous guests. This is, however, certainly not the case. Somehow, regardless of your expectations, le Fitz Roy Hotel manages only to impress.

The building itself is stunning. The classic chalet architecture makes one feel immediately welcome. This natural charm is reflected inside the hotel, more so following extensive refurbishment works, completed in 2013. The newly decorated interiors clearly aspire to make guests feel at home and comfortable in the occasionally harsh mountains, and they succeed in every respect.

Public areas vary between opulently spacious and intimately cozy, and the classic décor of all rooms have been given a light brushing with the modern. Iconic furniture sets the overall tone, but warm, neutral colours, modern luxuries, and comforting fabrics bring the hotel squarely into the 21st Century.

Each room either faces the slopes or the mountains; each view is similarly breathtaking so there will be no disappointment when you are given your room number. If you have a preference, I found the staff to be more than willing to accommodate if possible. Even basic rooms at le Fitz Roy Hotel match executive suites in other hotels in terms of luxury, but there are superb options for those wanting something grander and more exclusive. Available upgrades include a split-level room, a two-floor suite, or an entire floor for parties of 10 or more. I urge people to visit the hotel’s website to see the beauty of the rooms; description will inevitably fall short.

One thing that must be mentioned in a review of this hotel is the view. While it seems somewhat unfair to critique accommodation with reference to obviously magnificent surroundings, I think it is part of the genius of this hotel that it manages to blend itself into the surroundings. Val Thorens is the highest resort in the world, and the Three Valleys is, for me, one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Alps. The layout of this grand chalet, not to mention its location, make it so easy to take in the valley. Feeling constantly awe-struck when you venture onto the slopes, which are literally on your doorstep, and then returning to le Fitz Roy Hotel is what makes this hotel so brilliant.

As one would expect, the restaurant at le Fitz Roy Hotel is arguably one of the best places to eat in Val Thorens, and the bar is romantic beyond belief. The compulsion to get outside and ski is remarkably tempered once you have spent an afternoon sprawled on a sofa, lost in the fire that sits at the centre of the room. Every meal on the restaurant’s menu is exquisite; if there would be one place where you felt confident ordering simply the ‘chef’s recommendation’, it would be here. After seven nights dining in the restaurant, I never once felt as though I could have received better fare elsewhere.

The hotel is located on the place de Caron which is in the centre of the resort, this is where all the events of the resort takes place. New Year has the most special fireworks display which you would have the best view on your balcony.

Skiing to and from the hotel really couldn’t be easier. In the morning just click your skis in and scoot off down the piste. At the end of the day it is just as easy as there is a small lift that take you back to your hotel door, it’s as if they made it just for you!

Being in the centre of the resort also makes it easy to walk to the shops or Tourist Office as they too are on your doorstep, possibly one of the best locations of the resort.

Of course, there are many other facets that make le Fitz Roy Hotel an exceptional place to stay in the Three Valleys, if not the best; the fully-equipped, newly refurbished Spa facilities being one of the best things to indulge in while spending a week at this mountain retreat. However, a review must focus on the key attributes, and this hotel’s are sublimely simple: food, views and location. It is rare for a hotel to be of the highest quality based on these factors alone, but then le Fitz Roy Hotel is not your usual hotel.

The Statistics

How many Stars: 5* Hotel

Sleeps: 112 people

Closeness to the piste: Ski in Ski out

Resort location: On place de Caron, the centre of the resort

Style: Modern whilst keeping it’s roots

Swimming Pool: Yes

Spa: Yes

Michelin Stars: none

Specialness: It has the most comfy piano bar in the resort which crackling fire

Internet: Free WiFi

Disabled Facilities: Yes in rooms

Pets allowed: Yes

Our rating: 4/5

Those planning to take trip to the area known as Trois Vallées, or Three Valleys, already know they are in for a real treat. After all, this is the largest skiing area in the world and some of the most delightful and exclusive resorts reside here. If you have chosen Val Thorens you will already be looking forward to spending time at the highest resort of them all, and eagerly looking for a quality hotel to give your holiday the perfect finishing touch.

Situated on Grande Rue in the heart of the resort, the 3 Vallées hotel is an intimate, boutique establishment which prides itself on offerings its guests luxury as standard. With its unrivalled position it is a mere stones throw from both the slopes and the best the resort has to offer. There are 28 guest rooms in total ranging from a classic room up to a suite. The décor is very much of a traditional chalet style with the emphasis being very much on comfort thanks to the exemplary attention to detail.

The natural wood tones throughout the hotel blend perfectly with the contemporary colour scheme to give that elegant ambience you only find in the very best hotels. Every room is spacious and comfortable and offer everything you would expect from a top end establishment.

They opened its brand new wellness centre in 2014 and its facilities include a hammam (steam room), sauna and hot tub. There is no better way to relax and unwind and soothe those aching muscles before you get ready to hit the town for the best Après-ski in the French Alps. In keeping with the rest of the hotel the wellness centre has an intimate setting so book your place in advance to avoid disappointment especially at peak times.

While Val Thorens boasts some of the best restaurants in the Trois Vallées. The gourmet restaurant at this hotel takes some beating. You can enjoy an energy boosting buffet breakfast with breathtaking views of the nearby mountains are enjoy a fabulous gourmet dinner once the sun goes down. Combine this with the superb wine cellar and it is easy to understand why the restaurant is so incredibly popular.

The hotel bar is the perfect place to relax in the evenings if you don’t want to venture far from home. With the real fire crackling and a beverage of your choice hand it has a lovely, welcoming atmosphere and many new and long lasting friendships have been forged here over the years.

The Internet is littered with positive reviews from past and more than happy guests of the 3 Vallées hotel, many of which return time and time again which is the ultimate compliment for a hotel. There are also some handy tips offered such as requesting rooms on higher floors to get the best views of the mountains.

What the majority of the reviews focus on however is the service, friendliness of the staff and the fact that they knew from the moment they checked in they were the most important people there. There really is nothing more you could want from a hotel.

The Statistics

How many Stars: 4* Hotel

Sleeps: 28 rooms

Closeness to the piste: Ski out, 5min walk in

Resort location: Quarter Péclet

Style: Traditional chalet style

Swimming Pool: No

Spa: Yes

Michelin Stars: none

Specialness: Located near the bars

Internet: Free WiFi

Disabled Facilities: Yes

Pets allowed: No

Our rating: 3.5/5

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

For serious skiers, the MMV Club Hotel Les Arolles is the perfect place to spend your stay in Val Thorens. The hotel is situated at the foot of the slopes in Val Thorens, and allows for easy access to the rest of the Three Valley resort. The guests certainly reflect the very convenient location for exploring the wider Three Valley resort; at any one time the hotel’s lobby seemed to hold several groups of winter sports enthusiasts, more eager to get on the piste than the piss, and certainly more excited about exploring the slopes than the spa.

While the hotel seems to attract serious skiers, it is equally well-suited to those who have never skied or snowboarded before, being as it is so near to bunny slopes. When I enquired about skiing lessons, I found the staff to be practically overjoyed at the opportunity to help me learn to ski. This was surprising to me for a number of reasons, not least because, as a fairly experienced skier, I was more than aware of the contempt felt by some enthusiasts towards nuisance amateurs. Of course, being in such a high-quality establishment, one can quite rightly expect not to be treated with such disdain. Yet it is the genuine willingness of the staff to help that I found so impressive.

That being said, Les Allores is much more than a functional inn. The reason it serves so well as a place for skiers, rather than spa-junkies, to hang their helmets is precisely because it is so comfortable. The staff are just as attentive as in the more grandiose hotels, the rooms are of exceptional quality, and the spa facilities, while lacking by Val Thorens standards, are certainly a match for the most luxurious European urban hotels.

The ‘Wellness Centre’ features a Jacuzzi, sauna, steamroom, and a fully fitted beauty parlour attended by trained staff. I may not have much truck with beauty or spa treatments, I was assured by several other guests that the services and facilities available at Les Allores were of the highest standards.

While the location, facilities and staff were all top-notch, it was perhaps the small extras that made this hotel so satisfying, for want of a better word. Many of the hotels in Val Thorens, and even some of the private chalets, have some sort of kids club arrangement, allowing over-worked parents to genuinely enjoy a portion of their holiday in the way that only adults can. This is an absolutely integral part of a hotel for anybody with children. In this regard, the MMV Club Hotel Les Allores really does go above and beyond. There are a range of clubs for children aged between 4 months and 17 years, so there is no question that you will be able to get some relaxing time to yourself. Crucially however, these clubs are fun. This may sound somewhat facetious, but inflicting the misery of a poorly organised kids club on your children can leave one relaxed but guilt ridden, which can take the edge off a tranquil afternoon. The activities for children at Les Allores seem to be genuinely exciting and interesting, with plenty of effort put in by the organisers; this is an excellent positive for a hotel in Val Thorens that is not to be understated.

All-in-all, MMV Club Hotel Les Allores is a great place to spend your alpine holiday. It is certainly much more of a ski base than a mountain retreat, but in no way does that detract from the comfort and elegance of the place. The rooms are luxurious in their cozy but elegant way, and the entire layout of the hotel is unmistakably stylish. The facilities are superb, if you are interested in that sort of thing, and the location is simply perfect. This is certainly one to consider the next time you are planning a trip to the Three Valleys.

The Statistics

How many Stars: 3* Hotel

Sleeps: 52 rooms

Closeness to the piste: Ski out, short walk back

Resort location: Lower end of resort at entrance

Style: Typical French Ski Hotel

Swimming Pool: No

Spa: Yes

Michelin Stars: none

Specialness: Quieter end of the resort

Internet: paid

Disabled Facilities: No

Pets allowed: No

Our rating: 2/5

When you visit a world-class ski resort as Val Thorens you rightly expect there to be a vast choice of accommodation to match the prestige of the setting. A new hotel here is always hugely anticipated and the 5-star Hotel Koh-I Nor certainly doesn’t disappoint. With a Persian name that translates to ‘Mountain of Light‘ and situated right at the top of Val Thorens the exceptional location combined with everything, the hotel has to offer its guests has already put it firmly on the map.

With its ski-in/out access and outstanding panoramic views over the entire resort complete with its unique ‘white circus‘ whoever designed the Hotel Koh-I Nor deserves a medal. The vast expanses of glass achieve their objective of maximising the hotel’s ability to be flooded with natural light to such an extent one reviewer said you were treated to a “full light sensation”.

The hotel offers 63 rooms and suites which are the final word in luxury. Each are fully equipped with every amenity you could imagine including a private balcony, full-size bath, and separate toilet. Every guest can also enjoy the flat-screen TV’s, hairdryer, minibar and safe. Large, spacious and tastefully decorated in contemporary colours, it is easy to see why room service is so popular here.

There are 2 restaurants at the Hotel Koh-I Nor; one a luxury brasserie and the other boasting top-end international cuisine. The choice of the two caters to the gastronomic desires of all visitors and a fabulous dining experience is awaiting whichever you choose. The décor of the restaurants are best described as cosy luxury; you know you are in a top-end establishment but with a relaxing ambiance.

The lounge bar is the perfect place to relax in the evenings with a drink or three. There are two main features here; the large, roaring fireplace and the grand piano. There is a definite musical atmosphere in the lounge bar and sitting relaxing listening to some of your favourite tunes emitting from the expertly played ivories is a very special experience.

Those wishing to sit outdoors and watch mountain life go by should head for the south-west terrace. The positioning of it ensures it catches the sun all day long and you can sit for hours here watching both the action on the slopes and in the resort itself below.

For those guests who want to take their relaxation and well being to a whole new level, there is an outstanding 800m2 spa. Operated by spa experts Valmont, the spa will offer 2 swimming pools, fitness room, hammam, sauna, jacuzzi, ice fountain, salt wall, solarium, relaxing zone and 4 treatment rooms offering the very best in those special treatments which make you feel more relaxed than you thought possible but also put a spring in your step.

If the opportunity of staying at a brand new, luxurious hotel doesn’t happen very often but you now have that chance by booking into the Hotel Koh-I Nor. Check out their website for all manner of opening season offers including packages that allow children to stay for free as well as plenty ski orientated ones for the adults. This may be its first season but the Hotel Koh-I Nor is set to make its mark on Val Thorens, and for all the right reasons.

The Statistics

How many Stars: 5* Hotel

Sleeps: 63 rooms

Closeness to the piste: Ski in Ski out

Resort location: Rue du Gébroulaz, Top of resort

Style: Modern, beautifully done

Swimming Pool: Yes

Spa: Yes

Michelin Stars: none

Specialness: It has the comfiest piano bar in the resort which crackling fire

Internet: Free WiFi

Disabled Facilities: Yes

Pets allowed: No

Our rating: 5/5

Charming is a much overused term when it comes to describing the multitude of quality hotels which pepper the world famous ski area known as Trois Vallées. Each of the resorts offers a vast choice of accommodation catering to all needs and budgets. Val Thorens has more than its fair share of these top end establishments, and charming is just one of the numerous superlatives which can be applied to the gorgeous Hotel Le Sherpa.

Situated at the very heart of the resort, Le Sherpa offers its guests top quality accommodation right on the slopes. It’s location also allows everyone to enjoy the very best of Val Thorens’ après ski, which is considered one of the best in Europe. The hotel is built in the traditional and visually appealing chalet style and boasts spectacular views of the ski area right at the top of the Belleville Valley.

The rooms and suites are tastefully decorate to offer luxurious comfort for 1-4 guests. Warm colours blend seamlessly with top quality wooden furniture to offer a rustic chic without compromising on style. As well as the standard amenities you would expect each room also has satellite TV, Wi Fi and a balcony boasting amazing views over the valley. There are special family suites available too which boast separate children’s rooms, perfect for a spot quality time once they are in bed.

The warm and welcoming ambience extends to both parents and children making this one of the most family friendly hotels in the area. Nothing is too much trouble for the staff who, from the moment you arrive, do everything they possibly can to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. Children are allowed to be children at Le Sherpa, which is exactly what you want when holidaying as a family.

Extra special attention is given to the dining experiences guest at Le Sherpa have at their disposal. The restaurant serves buffet breakfasts to give you the energy needed for a hard day on the slopes and 5 course gourmet meals at the end of the day accompanied by one of the fine wines which France produces as standard. Gastronomic delights are easy to find around Val Thorens but having one as part of your half board package is a real treat.

There are several areas in the hotel which have been specially designed to allow you to spend some quiet time. Relaxing by the roaring fire in one of the cosy lounges or bar area with the nightcap of your choice is a wonderful way to round of yet another thrilling day at one of the world’s top ski resorts.
If you want to make the most of clean, crisp air there is a quiet, south facing terrace offering stunning panoramic views.

There is also a full beauty centre if you want to indulge in a bit of pampering as well as a steam room, jacuzzi and sauna to enjoy. In short, Le Sherpa is the haven you will look forward to returning to after a full day of whatever kind of thrills you have had on the slopes. If you are planning a trip to Val Thorens and are still debating over which hotel to choose, Le Sherpa could be the best decision you ever made.

The Statistics

How many Stars: 3* Hotel

Closeness to the piste: Ski in Ski out

Resort location: Quarter Péclet, Very Top of resort

Style: Classic Chalet

Swimming Pool: No

Spa: Yes

Michelin Stars: none

Specialness: Fantastic Location

Internet: Free WiFi

Disabled Facilities: Yes

Pets allowed: No

Our rating: 3/5

Having benefited from a thorough recent refurbishment, Hotel le Val Thorens has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it the ideal base for a skiing holiday for families or other large group. As the first hotel to be built in this Savoie resort, Hotel le Val Thorens builds on a tradition of excellence, and welcomes guests with modern luxuries such as free wifi, graceful modern wooden furniture, a trendy lobby,  in-room flat screen TVs, and free entry to the new onsite spa, which includes a sauna, steam room, and heated indoor pool. Beauty therapies and massages and other treatments are also available for a further supplement.

The spa is a real selling point for this hotel, with amazing powerful showers (ideal for an apres-ski shoulder massage), and warm pool perfect for either an invigorating swim or a more relaxing dip. Imagine coming straight from the piste immediately to a waiting masseuse, or a steamy sauna. At Val Thorens, this is a reality.

Another benefit to this hotel is its town centre location: as the resort is car-free, this is an important bonus as guests can easily walk everywhere. The Val Thorens also offers direct ski-in and ski-out access, making it supremely comfortable as a base to stay and hit the slopes- and then relax properly afterwards. While many rooms benefit from dramatic mountain views, the main restaurant serves delicious modern French cuisine on the terrace, making an ideal lunch or dinner spot on sunny days.

The terrace’s seating area also includes sheepskins and other warm rugs to keep the cold at bay for guests who like to dine al fresco. Service is exceptional in the hotel’s main restaurant, and diners benefit from short wait times between ordering and eating, allowing them to return to the slopes and resume skiing as quickly as possible! Enjoy lighter oeufs cocotte dishes here, or dine more informally in the bar area. The hotel also has a more traditional restaurant, La Fondue, serving up delicious savoury cheeses and raclette in quantity for tired and hungry skiers. In the evenings, the hotel’s cosy west facing bar welcomes tired guests to watch the sun set over the mountains with delicious cocktails and a warm, snug environment with roaring log fire, far away from the bitter wind and snow of the slopes (the mojitos here especially come highly recommended).

Rooms have a restful yet modern European vibe, with views of the slopes, fur throws, cosy bath robes, and ambient contemporary lighting. While the hotel’s own restaurant serves up excellent and wholesome fare, the Val Thorens is also ideally located for other gourmet destinations in the town, including La Maison, Le Fitz Roy, and Face West. All details are considered, with the hotel offering heated boot storage for guests’ comfort. The central atrium and lobby are both stylish and light-filled, with striking artworks: the Val Thorens is as much a boutique or design hotel as it is a ski hotel, and its friendly staff further add to the traditional Alpine hospitality to be found here.

The Statistics

How many Stars: 4* Hotel

Closeness to the piste: Ski in Ski out

Resort location: On place de Caron, the centre of the resort

Style: Contemporary décor

Swimming Pool: No

Spa: Yes

Michelin Stars: none

Specialness: Location is tough to beat

Internet: Free WiFi

Disabled Facilities: Yes

Pets allowed: No

Our rating: 3.5/5

At a height of 2,300 metres, the Mercure Hotel in the Val Thorens ski resort is the highest hotel the chain owns in all of Europe. Offering guests all amenities to ensure their ski holidays are happy and successful, Hotel Mercure 2300 sells lift passes, arranges ski rentals, provides children’s entertainment (including a dedicated children’s entertainer/play assistant during the French school holidays), and has a spa for apres-ski relaxation, offering sauna facilities, a jacuzzi, a hammam, beauty treatments, and massages. Additionally, an on-site shop with extremely helpful staff rents and sells ski equipment and clothing.

The spa is an especially attractive feature of this hotel, with guests enjoying the warmth and bubbles of the jacuzzi as they watch the sun setting and the snow ploughs preparing the pistes for the following day. Food is also much better than your average ski hotel’s, with breakfast laid on as a generous continental buffet, including treats such as smoked salmon as well as bacon, sausages, pancakes, eggs, bread, fruit, and bottomless tea and coffee. Take advantage of the restaurant’s gastronomic offerings and stay half board at the hotel: the modern and tasty French cuisine from the hotel’s kitchen definitely makes this option worthwhile. Options are either fixed menu, or based around local ingredients and specialities: fondue is included in the half board prices, but needs to be ordered the day before. Hearty soups and crisp salads complement main meals, while dessert is served buffet-style for the sweets, accompanied by a full selection of delicious savory cheeses.

The bar area has typical Alpine wood panelling, creating a traditional, cosy atmosphere which comes as a relief after a hard day on the mountain. Its quiet yet welcoming atmosphere makes it a luxurious haven in the evening, with a lovely fire to keep things snug on the coldest nights. The bar sometimes hosts live music, while occasional karaoke nights ensure that everyone’s kept entertained. The adjacent terrace is a real sun trap on bright days, making it the perfect spot for some apres-ski tanning, or simply sitting out with a book and a coffee (or a glass of something a little stronger). Hotel Mercure 2300 also provides guests with an array of useful services to make stays more comfortable, including free wifi, and numbered downstairs lockers which correspond to room numbers, making the trip out to the piste and the gathering all of your equipment easy. The Mercure 2300 Hotel also offers direct access to the pistes, with a ski-in ski-out facility ensuring that the transition from hotel room to slopes and back again is seamless.

If you are planning to stay for just a weekend, or need a room for a stay that doesn’t begin or end on a Saturday, the Hotel Mercure 2300 is one of the few hotels in Val Thorens who can accommodate you: even during the peak ski season, rooms can be booked on a night by night basis, meaning that you don’t have to commit to a week or a fortnight, as in other establishments in the area. Finally, with a games room and a kids’ entertainment centre, the Mercure 2300 Hotel is ideally set up for a truly memorable and enjoyable skiing holiday, whether you are travelling alone, as a couple, a family, or in a large group.

The Statistics

How many Stars: 3* Hotel

Sleeps: 104 rooms

Closeness to the piste: Ski in Ski out

Resort location: Next to the Slalom

Style: Modern décor

Swimming Pool: No

Spa: Yes

Michelin Stars: none

Specialness: Location is perfect

Internet: Free WiFi

Disabled Facilities: Yes

Pets allowed: No

Our rating: 3/5

The simple Alpine aesthetic and charm (think lots of honey-coloured pine, gabled roofs, and delicate floral sprigged bedspreads) of Le Portillo Hotel & Residence goes some way to disguising the fact that Le Portillo is actually a top notch ski hotel, complete with full spa and relaxation facilities, in the ever popular Savoie ski resort of Val Thorens. Perfectly situated in the middle of town, the office for ski passes is just next door to the hotel, while a good selection of shops is to be found in the immediate vicinity, including a Carrefour supermarket, ideal for self-catering guests staying in the hotel’s apartment complex.

Complete with an incredibly easy ski in ski out facility, Le Portillo Hotel makes it supremely simple for guests to tumble straight out of bed and on to the slopes, and being able to return in the evening, unclip your boots, and head straight to the sauna or steam room (or the bar) is another reason that staying in Le Portillo makes sense. With balconies, flat screen TVs, wifi, and a host of other modern amenities, the hotel offers more than just a bolt hole on a skiing holiday: it’s a destination in itself. From the hotel cat, Léon, to the golden reindeer which ornaments the hotel foyer, Le Portillo takes care of even the tiniest of details. If you want more than just a room for your stay, Le Portillo also offers spacious studios and larger apartments which are ideal for larger groups. As well as containing separate living rooms and bathrooms, the apartments come with fully equipped kitchenettes, making them ideal for longer stays. With coffee makers, dishwashers, oven, hot plates, fridge and utensils all included, guests are comfortable on extended breaks in these cosy homes away from home.

Ski storage is well taken care of, too, with lockable ski cages to house guests’ equipment, and heated boot racks to make life a little more comfortable for skiers first thing in the morning. The whole property has a quaint, Alpine chalet feel, which only adds to skiers’ overall experience on the slopes: it’s lovely to return from a heavy day’s skiing on the slopes to your own comfortable Alpine lodge, and it’s the authenticity of the experience which keeps guests coming back year after year..

When it comes to dining options, guests are spoiled for choice. Le Portillo boasts 3 restaurants onsite, including a sunny terrace with stunning panoramic mountain views for outdoor dining in good weather; relaxed bar-restaurant La Pause, open for lunch and dinner, serving traditional French brasserie fare in an unpretentious atmosphere; and finally La Grange de Pierette, which serves up delicious local Savoyard dinners. Typical menus might include Savoy trout and beetroot, cheese platters, traditional tartiflette, roasted scallops with truffle risotto, and rose, raspberry, and lychee macaroons. Nothing is brought in ready-made from elsewhere, or prepared out of sight of the dedicated hotel chef: everything is freshly homemade, ensuring a fabulous dining experience for all guests (there is also a full children’s menu).

The Statistics

How many Stars: 3* Hotel

Sleeps: 20 rooms

Closeness to the piste: Ski out, little walk back

Resort location: Rue du Gébroulaz, Top of resort

Style: Rustic

Swimming Pool: No

Spa: No

Michelin Stars: none

Specialness: If you like wood you will love it!

Internet: none

Disabled Facilities: No

Pets allowed: No

Our rating: 3/5

This magnificent ski-lodge style hotel has a quaint alpine aesthetic (think sloping roofs, gables, and a wooden exterior) which is belied by the fresh, modern interiors and exceptional quality of service from the hotel staff. With a handy first-floor locker room for storing all of your skiing equipment, the hotel opens up right onto the piste itself- you won’t get any closer to the slopes than this. The convenience of true ski-in ski-out accommodation only becomes apparent when you stay here: you can either catch a ski lift to go higher or simply ski down the valley, right from the hotel’s front door. The hotel’s balconies also have direct views of the slopes, making for an impressive sight on waking in the morning, and for watching the repair work going on at night. The resort of Val Thorens itself is immaculate and well-cared for, with snow cannon firing regularly to keep the slopes pristine for the next day’s onslaught of skiers. With a friendly bar offering local and international drinks at very reasonable prices, and generous 5-course meals (including buffet desserts and cheese courses) served to satisfy the appetites of hungry skiers, the Val Chavière is an excellent option for family breaks, trips with friends, and all other skiing excursions.

Taking excellent care of its many guests who return season after season, the Val Chavière also offers some of the best value accommodation in the Alps. on changeover days, the full Continental breakfast is served from 3.30am, meaning that no-one leaves hungry. With all the usual options (fresh bread and juices, cheese, charcuterie, croissants, boiled eggs, and fruit), the hotel’s breakfast service also gives you access to egg-cookers to prepare your own omelets or fried eggs. With traditional Fondue served one night per week in the restaurant, the hotel operates a useful policy where guests keep their same table all week, which adds to the home-away-from-home atmosphere and warm alpine hospitality: the corner tables are often a little quieter than those situated in the busy hub of the central dining room, so guests arriving early to dinner on the first night will be well placed to choose their ideal dining location for the rest of the week. The upper rooms of the hotel undeniably command the best views, so it may well be worth requesting this option if a view is an important feature in your stay.

While the hotel itself does not provide spa facilities, it’s situated in the middle of Val Thorens, meaning that guests have easy access to the large spa complex in the town. 5-day passes are available at a very reasonable price, giving visitors access to a large swimming pool, smaller chillout pool, a capacious steam room, 3 saunas, and 2 generously proportioned jacuzzis, which again offer amazing value and cosy respite after a hard day on the slopes.

With immaculate bathrooms, free wifi, English-language TV channels, and incredible views of and access to the slopes, the Val Chavière is a top pick for keen skiers everywhere.

The Statistics

How many Stars: 5* Hotel

Sleeps: 63 rooms

Closeness to the piste: Ski in Ski out

Resort location: Rue du Gébroulaz, Top of resort

Style: Modern, beautifully done

Swimming Pool: Yes

Spa: Yes

Michelin Stars: none

Specialness: It has the most comfy piano bar in the resort which crackling fire

Internet: Free WiFi

Disabled Facilities: Yes

Pets allowed: No

Our rating: 5/5