Val Thorens

Le Portillo Hotel & Residence – Val Thorens

Posted on: February 12th, 2018 by SkiGB

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

Val Chavière Hotel – Val Thorens

Posted on: February 12th, 2018 by SkiGB

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

Chalet des Neiges I – Val Thorens

Posted on: February 12th, 2018 by SkiGB

Val Thorens is the ultimate holiday destination for travellers who love Alpine skiing. Established more than four decades ago, the resort has gradually flourished into the premiere Alpine ski resort in France. Val Thorens combines some of the world’s best ski slopes with a friendly and exciting atmosphere that people of all ages will enjoy.

CLICK HERE for the latest deals for Chalet des Neiges 1

Set high on the Eastern side of the resort is Chalet des Neiges I, a modern and comfortable chalet that sleeps 10 people. It is situated above the village centre and is only a short walk to nearby bars, clubs, restaurants and spas.

This chalet features a huge open plan living area with comfortable lounges and a large dining table that seats 10 people. A balcony stretches alongside the lounge room, offering great views of the village and ski slopes. It is the perfect place to relax with a glass of wine after spending a day on the slopes.

Chalet des Neiges I is features wood panelling and timber beams to give guests the feeling of staying at an authentic Alpine chalet. Bedrooms are spacious, tastefully decorated and feature high-quality soft furnishings.

Chalet des Neiges Lounge – Val Thorens

There are five twin bedrooms in the chalet, with one including an ensuite shower room and another including an ensuite bath/shower room. The chalet has a number of shared amenities including:

WC and shower room
Combined bath and shower room
Separate WC
Shower room

All bathrooms are modern and tastefully decorated with high quality fixtures.

The chalet is a 5-minute walk to the slopes and the bus that takes passengers to the ski school. Guests staying at the chalet also have free access to the indoor pool and sauna within the complex.

Food, Glorious Food!

With plenty of dining options, Val Thorens is the perfect location for a foodie holiday!

The chalet is fully catered, offering a hearty breakfast, afternoon tea with home-made cakes and a 3-course evening meal with house wine and coffee included. The resort’s talented chefs can create special meals for people with vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free or gluten-free diets. There are also early meal times available if you have children.

Chalet des Neiges Swimming Pool – Val Thorens

If you prefer to eat out, there are many high-quality restaurants within a short walk of Chalet des Neiges. Some of the best include:

La Folie Douce
A very popular venue in the town, which is the site of many open air celebrations, it features two eateries, La Fruitière and La Petite Cuisine.
Chalet de la Marin
Featured in the Michelin guide since 2013, the restaurant features indulgent food that will tantalise your tastebuds.
Les Aiguilles de Peclet
At the foot of the Péclet glacier, this a la carte restaurant has a wonderful menu including homemade desserts
Chalet Des 2 Ours
With a mountain style Savoyard-decorated interior, the restaurant has a range of hearty and delicious meals

The chalet also features a fully equipped kitchen, so you can prepare your own meals if you prefer.

Nearby Activities

The resort has such a diverse range of activities on offer that everyone from ski fanatics to foodies will have a great time. Many people also come to the Val Thorens to simply relax at one of the high quality spas!

If you are looking for an action packed holiday, some of the activities on offer at Val Thorens include:

Winter Activities
Dozens of activities on offer including snowboarding, ice diving, a giant airbag landing pad, ice driving, snow mountain biking, ski touring, snow mobiles, paragliding, sled dogs, snowshoe outings, toboggans and of course skiing!
Summer Activities
The fun doesn’t finish when winter is over. Some of the fun summer activities include fishing, donkey riding, hiking, archery, cycling, miniature golf, mountain biking, paintball, rafting, tennis, and trampolining
Sports and leisure centre
The centre features many activities including Tennis, squash, badminton, table tennis, volleyball, football and street basketbal
Kids fun park
Trampolines, inflatable castles, ball pools, and other fun activities for under 12s!
Fitness Centre
Classes for all fitness levels in a variety of different styles including low-intensity, step, tai-chi, box-aerobics and abs classes. The fitness centre also offers beginners dance lessons.
Aquaclub Spa
Great for parents and kids alike, featuring two swimming pools, spa, jacuzzis, sauna, relaxation space, steam showers, and aquaerobics

Conveniently, there are ski hire facilities in the same building as Chalet des Neiges I. Simply duck downstairs to hire or buy some gear for your day on the slopes.

Chalet des Neiges Bedroom – Val Thorens

For people are visiting Val Thorens to simply relax, there are many beautiful venues in town to do so, including:

Val Thorens Well-Being Centre
Providing facials and body treatments, scrubs, body modelling with essential oils, light therapy, sauna and bronzing.
The Val Thorens Sports Centre
In addition to providing access to dozens of sports, the Sport Centre has professional beauticians and masseuses on hand to pamper guests. Some of the massage therapies available include lomi lomi, Swedish, Californian, Thai, Indian, sculpting, lymph-draining or sub-dermal tissue massage.
Koh-I Nor spa
Working in conjunction with Valmont, Koh-I Nor have created a spa that is designed to rejuvenate and relax guests. The spa features two swimming pools, a fitness room, a sauna, a jacuzzi, experience showers, a Turkish bath, a salt wall, a solarium and a relaxation area
Le Spa
Using Cinq Mondes products and Phyto-Aromatics, this spa has 3 rooms for facials, body treatments and massages.

With so many activities on offer, Chalet des Neiges I is the perfect accommodation option for your next holiday.

Chalet Bobsleigh – Val Thorens

Posted on: February 12th, 2018 by SkiGB

Voted “World Best Ski Resort 2013 & 2014”, Val Thorens remains one of the best ski holiday locations in the world. Situated high in the French Alps, the resort combines beautiful views, fantastic food and luxurious holiday facilities with some of the world’s best Alpine skiing.

High within the resort is Chalet Bobsleigh, a spacious and modern chalet that sleeps 12 people. It is located on the Eastern side of the resort, a short walk from most of the resort’s facilities. This is a prime location in Val Thorens, only one minute from the resort’s bars, restaurant and right on top of the ski shop.

CLICK for Latest Prices and Availability for Chalet Bobsleigh!

The entrance level for Chalet Bobsleigh features a large open plan living space with a 12-seat dining table, 3 comfortable lounges, flat screen television and modern kitchen. While the chalet is fully catered, the kitchen provides all of the necessary tools to prepare a delicious meal, including a stove, microwave and refrigerator. The huge dining table is perfect spot for an enjoyable and delicious meal with friends after a day on the slopes.

Chalet Bobsleigh Lounge – Val Thorens

A large balcony wraps around the lounge and dining room, providing guests with stunning views of the ski slopes and resort. The balcony is a great spot to soak up some sun while enjoying a glass of wine or cup of coffee.

The decor in the main living area is very clean and modern, with warm colours used throughout. The entry level also contains 2 twin bedrooms, one of which has an ensuite shower room. There is also a toilet on this level and another shared shower room. The twin bedrooms are spacious, comfortable and use high-quality soft furnishings.

Chalet Bobsleigh Bedroom – Val Thorens

The upper floor contains another four twin bedrooms, two of which have ensuite shower rooms. There is also a luxurious shared bathroom, with shower/bath and toilet. This level also has another WC. The bathrooms feature timber cabinetry, beautiful white tiles and modern shower components.

The chalet is fully catered, which includes breakfast, afternoon tea and a 3-course evening meal with wine and coffee. The afternoon tea is a favourite feature of guests and includes delicious home made cakes. On the final night of your stay, a special 4-course farewell meal will be prepared. Guests at the resort rate the food very highly, often suggesting that the quality of the cuisine is the best part of staying at Chalet Bobsleigh. The resort’s expert chefs can cater for people with vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free or gluten-free diets.

Visitors to the chalet have free access to the swimming pool in Chalet des Neiges, just next door. Guests can also enjoy the sauna within the resort complex. If you would like to enjoy some socialising or sample some delicious French wines, there are some great restaurants and bars within a short 1-minute walk from the chalet.

The chalet is only a 5-minute walk to the courtesy bus that takes people to the ski school meeting point, making it ideal for beginner skiers. One major convenience of staying at Chalet Bobsleigh is that the ski and board hire shop is located within the same building!

Chalet Bobsleigh Dining Room – Val Thorens

The resort also features a wellness centre, where guests can enjoy massages and beauty treatments. The wellness centre includes a large heated swimming pool, hot tubs, steam rooms, relaxation rooms and gym.

Chalet Bobsleigh is a fantastic accommodation option for friends or a family group who would like to enjoy a ski trip together. Val Thorens resort provides some spectacular views and fantastic skiing opportunities — make your booking today!

Chalet Les Balcons 2 – Val Thorens

Posted on: February 12th, 2018 by SkiGB

Located within the famous Val Thorens ski resort, Chalet Balcons 2 is a fantastic accommodation option for a group ski trip with friends or family. Sleeping 10 people over three floors, the chalet is modern, charming and comfortable. Chalet Balcons 2 is perfectly located — a 4-minute walk from the ski lifts and a 6-minute walk to the resort centre.

CLICK for the latest prices and availability for Chalet Les Balcons 2

This chalet features a modern and contemporary design, comfortable living areas, and large balconies to relax on. Chalet Les Balcons 2 rests high above the village and features stunning views of the ski slopes. This chalet offers access to a wide range of facilities including a luxury spa, restaurant and ski shop.

Chalet Les Balcons 2 Spa – Val Thorens

On the entrance level, the chalet features a large living area with comfortable sofas, an Austrian-style fire place and beautiful views of the mountains. The wood burning stove in the lounge room is the perfect location to enjoy a glass of wine after a day on the slopes.

The entrance level also contains a modern kitchen that has all of the amenities you could require for your stay — a fridge/freezer, microwave and cooker. This level also contains a twin bedroom, shower room and separate toilet.

Chalet Les Balcons 2 Bedroom – Val Thorens

The lower ground floor features:

A twin bedroom with shower and toilet;
A twin bedroom with bath and toilet;
A twin bedroom with shower, toilet and balcony.

The upper floor features a large twin bedroom with bath and toilet. This room has some height restrictions with a large beam crossing the room. All bedrooms are tastefully decorated, featuring wood paneling, quality soft furnishings and cream walls.

Enjoy a Stay in a Fully Featured Ski Resort

The chalet is well-located within a short walk of all complex facilities including the wellness centre, ski shop, grocery shop and a fantastic bar-restaurant.

Chalet Les Balcons 2 Dining Room – Val Thorens

The wellness centre is the perfect location to relax during your holiday. It has a wide-range of facilities available including a large heated swimming pool, hot tubs, sauna, gym, steam room and relaxation area. The spa also offers a wide range of beauty and relaxation treatments including massages. There is free wireless Internet throughout most public areas in the resort.

The ski shop is only a few steps from your front door and offers a great range of equipment that can be hired or bought. If you are a beginner skier, there is a bus that picks people up from the ski shop every 20 minutes, taking them to the beginner ski slopes.

Book this Chalet HERE!

A range of catering options are available, from self-catered through to an all-inclusive meals package. The resort is renowned for its high quality food and the fully catered option includes: a hearty breakfast each day, afternoon tea with home made cakes and 3-course meals in the evening with house wine and coffee. There is also a special 4-course “farewell feast” on the final night of your stay. The talented chefs will also cater for vegetarians, vegans and people on gluten or dairy-free diets at no additional charge.

Chalet Les Balcons 2 Lounge – Val Thorens

Children are welcome at the chalet and a private nanny service is available for children between 6-months and 8-years of age. It is essential to book ahead for the nanny service.

About Val Thorens

Val Thorens is the highest Alpine Skiing resort in Europe! The resort is located in the Tarentaise Valley, Savoie, French Alps. The resort was established more than 40 years ago and has gradually grown into the luxurious holiday destination that you see today. It is the perfect holiday destination for groups of friends, families or couples.

Club Med Sensations Hotel – Val Thorens

Posted on: February 12th, 2018 by SkiGB

For luxury in Europe’s highest ski resort, look no further than Club Med Sensations Hotel in Val Thorens. Offering really simple, hassle-free premium skiing experiences with an all-inclusive package, the hotel also offers super-convenient ski-in ski-out access. With 384 high-end designer bedrooms, guests can look forward to spending relaxing nights in their comfortable Deluxe, Club, Suite and Junior Suite rooms (Suites and Junior Suites come with private balconies, while Deluxe rooms come with a separate lounge area).

The hotel is also well provided for catering options, with a Main Restaurant serving generous buffet meals of deliciously fresh mountain cuisine, as well as more rarefied options in the Epicurious Gourmet Lounge. Headed up by 2-Michelin starred chef Edouard Loubet, the Epicurious Gourmet Lounge offers elegant tasting menus, delectable afternoon teas, and an unrivalled wine cellar, as well as delicacies from upmarket deli Eataly. For those who just can’t wait to hit the slopes, the Take Away Corner offers hot and tasty dishes as well as coffees on the run, and the hotel provides hot and cold snacks and drinks all day to hungry guests returning from the slopes.

Happily for those keen on a tipple, the Club Med’s bars, like the restaurants, run on an all-inclusive policy (there’s even an on-site nightclub). With water, fruit juices, fizzy drinks, teas, coffees, hot chocolates, cocktails, mocktails, local and international spirits, wines, and sweet and savoury snacks all included in the price of your stay, there’s no need to go elsewhere, and the Main Bar’s buzzing atmosphere and massive windows for great views make it a natural draw in the evenings.

Club Med Sensations Hotel Private Lounge – Val Thorens

Club Med packages really offer a great deal to guests, and this is especially true at the Sensations in Val Thorens. The Ski Pass included in your stay will give you full access to the 3 Vallées ski area (including Bride-les-Bains, Courchevel, La Tania, Les Menuires, Méribel, Orelle, St Martin de Belleville, and Val Thorens). Alpine skiing and snowboarding are also included in your package, and access to the Terraces, Lounge, and planned festive evenings also come as standard. In the Club Med Resort, Turkish Baths are also offered at no extra charge, while a variety of spa treatments including massages, facials, hand care and foot care are optional extras.

Bespoke Wellness treatments, including personal evaluations, a Wellness box in your room on arrival, private skiing or snowboarding lessons and nutritional advice are also available to book. Equally, great fitness options such as expertly-taught lessons and a large climbing wall mean that skiing isn’t the only form of sport you can partake in during a stay here.

Club Med Sensations Hotel Room – Val Thorens

Entertainment and night life are a big part of the Club Med experience, with cabaret, burlesque, and other nightly shows all receiving rave reviews. With live music, friendly and welcoming staff – and a spectacular number of costume changes- skiing will almost seem like a secondary activity during your stay here! For those in need of more sedate pastimes, wifi is free and the selection of movies available is huge, but if alone-time gets a bit oppressive, there’s usually an organised activity on at the bar.

Val Thorens Ski Cross and Boarder Cross Course

Posted on: February 12th, 2018 by SkiGB

One of the most popular events at the Sochi Olympics was the Ski Cross and Boarder Cross competitions.
Right from the first heat when the starter let’s the competitors loose it is fast and very exciting to watch and probably compete in too. If you missed the event at the Olympics or have not heard of this event imagine a BMX course made out of snow with humps, jumps and tight corners to endure. Now add 6 skiers or snowboarders all starting in a line at the same time. There are very little rules for this sport so there is the odd collision and accident.

Ski Cross and Boarder Cross captured the interest of the public as it is fast and exciting and you really didn’t know who was going to win until they crossed the line.
In 2006 winter Olympics the favourite to win the female Boarder cross had a commanding lead in the final to pick up a Gold medal, however it didn’t quite go to plan!
She decided to do a trick on one of the last jumps and sadly didn’t manage to land it and gave away a Gold Olympic medal, she is still probably regretting doing that.
Watch for yourself you have to feel for her:

This is what makes this sport so very exciting, anything can happen. It looks fun doesn’t it?!
Fancy having ago yourself with your friends?
Val Thorens has its own Ski Cross and Boarder Cross course which anyone and try their luck on. It is an official championship course and in fact is regularly the first race course used each season.

Val Thorens Ski Cross and Boarder Cross Course highlighted in red

If you are thinking of going on a ski holiday this season or next why not try something new too!

Resort opening date delayed for Val Thorens

Posted on: November 17th, 2015 by SkiGB

BREAKING NEWS!
Val Thorens ski resort has announced that they will be opening the resort 1 week later than planned.

Due to a shortfall of snow that the Alps has received it was the only option to delay the opening date by a week.
Val Thorens will now open on 28th November.

Here is the quote from the Val Thorens Tourist Office:

“In spite of our determination to open the resort and the ski area on 21st November, unpredictable weather conditions have made it impossible for us to do so in a satisfactory way. For this reason, the teams in Val Thorens have made the difficult but sensible decision to postpone the opening. The resort looks forward to welcoming snowsports fans on Saturday 28th November, in the best conditions”

We have seen the resort open a little later in previous seasons which for those times was the correct decision. Looking at the current snow on the ground and what is forecast we think this is the only option too.

If you have booked a trip out to Val Thorens for the first week we recommend that you speak to your tour operator.

If anything changes on this news and opening dates we will keep you informed, and, of course, we will be keeping an eye on the snow as it falls too!

Road to Val Thorens blocked by Rock!

Posted on: February 27th, 2015 by SkiGB

* Update 28th Feb 2015 – 17:15 *
The authorities think the road will now be open at 17:30 both directions.

* Update 28th Feb 2015 – 17:00 *
The RD117 road up from Moutiers to Les Menuires and Val Thorens is still currently shut. A diverted route is in place using the RD96 village road. This road is very thin in places so trucks and buses are not allowed.
The RD117 road is still due to open at 18:00 with priority traffic given to vehicles leaving resorts.
The buses from the connecting trains will also be given priority.
It is still recommended not to join the traffic to try and clmb the mountain road until tomorrow.
More information here or on our social media accounts once we know more.

* Update 28th Feb 2015 – 12:00*

The very earliest that the road will be passable is 18:00 however there are many vehicles wishing to travel up and down the road so there will be a large delay.

* Update 28th Feb 2015 – 9am *

The authorities are still working on removing the large rock from blocking the road up to Val Thorens. They have informed us that this will take all day to do and the road is closed to all traffic.

It is advised to change your travel plans if you were planning on driving up or down the road until tomorrow.

Reports are coming in of a very large rock which has fallen on the main road to Val Thorens. It has broken up the road which will take a while to repair.

As you can see by the photo the rock is very large, it is thought to be as much as 50 tonnes in weight, we have been informed that no vehicles were hit by the rock.

Tomorrow of course is the main day of the week for transfers of holidaymakers which would see this road very busy, at the moment buses can not pass.

There is only one main road up to Val Thorens, however there are old village roads which loop the main road which will help divert traffic. These roads are quite thin so trucks and buses are unlikely to fit down them.

Snow Artist Simon Beck visits Val Thorens

Posted on: February 8th, 2015 by SkiGB

Renowned snow artist Simon Beck paid a visit to Val Thorens on Saturday and created one of his master pieces on the side of one of one of the pistes.

Simon Beck is an English man who spends a lot of his time in the Alps creating many different types of snow art. This week he created a rose in Val Thorens for all to enjoy.

Simon makes his art by using snow-shoes and walks out the design in the snow, often you can only see the whole of the picture from a distance so it must be hard to not to make a mess!

Simon started work on this creation at 8am and finished around 2pm and is about 100m in diameter.

Hopefully nobody wanted to land their plane in Val Thorens because the Val Thorens airfield was the location!

Simon Beck art in Val Thorens Simon Beck

If you would like to know more about Simon here is his Facebook Page.

Val Thorens restaurant gets its first Michelin Star

Posted on: February 3rd, 2015 by SkiGB

Yesterday the new list of Michelin Star restaurants got published and Val Thorens has something to celebrate!

The Epicurean has been award it’s first Michelin Star!

We would like to congratulate all involved!

It’s not easy getting a Michelin Star, if you would like to know all the winners for the 3 Valleys head over to our 3 Valleys Michelin Star post.

Val Thorens’ New Club Med Hotel opens it’s doors

Posted on: December 15th, 2014 by SkiGB

Whenever a large investment arrives in Val Thorens it is always a big deal, the last 18 months we have seen a very large investment from Club Med by replacing their flagship hotel. Sitting directly behind the old hotel Club Med have installed a very modern hotel which has just opened for the first time.

If you have read our blog about the New Club Med hotel in Val Thorens then you already know a little bit about this, if you have not read it head over and have a look.

Well this new hotel is now open for business and Club Med have produced this video to show it off. It does looks nice in the video and we can back this up by saying it is very nice as we have popped in ourselves to have a look around.

CLICK for the latest review and information about the Club Med Sensations Hotel

Check out the video below for yourself, we have also put a link to their site if you want to find out more.

Val Thorens Wins best Ski Resort in France

Posted on: November 23rd, 2014 by SkiGB

Congratulations to our 3 Valleys and Meribel neighbours Val Thorens for winning two of the biggest ski resort awards for the second year in a row!

For the second year running ski resort Val Thorens has won Best Ski Resort in France and Best Ski Resort in the World.

Every year the ski industry awards ski resorts accolades for doing well. It could be that they promote the sports well or they invest and maintain their patch of the Alps the best. In fact there are many criterias to be judged on.

For a French ski resort to win the best ski resort in France is obviously the one they want to win. So quite rightly they are very happy to win it twice in a row.

But to win the big one, the best ski resort in the World and to win once again twice in two years must be something they have only dreamt of.

From all of us here at SkiGB.com congratulations Val Thorens!!

Val Thorens Wins World Best Ski Award AGAIN!

Posted on: November 23rd, 2014 by SkiGB

For the second year running ski resort Val Thorens has won Best Ski Resort in France and Best Ski Resort in the World.

For a French ski resort to win the best ski resort in France is obviously the one they want to win. So quite rightly they are very happy to win it twice in a row.

But to win the big one, the best ski resort in the World and to win once again twice in two years must be something they have only dreamed of.

From all of us here at SkiGB.com congratulations Val Thorens!!

New Val Thorens Ski Lifts for Season 2014/2015

Posted on: September 27th, 2014 by SkiGB

As part of Val Thorens’ ongoing quest for performance and innovation, SETAM (the company that runs and owns the ski lifts in Val Thorens) is continuing to modernise its ski lifts by investing €20 million into the ski area.

This video shows how they winch chairs lifts up into location, the ski lifts that are being upgraded for this season are:

Telesiege de la Portette

La Portette chair lift has now been replaced with a 6-seater detachable chair lift which will improve its role as a link to the ski area’s northern pistes. The bottom of the lift has been been moved 100 metres down the mountain which will position it more central to the areas skiing traffic.

Telesiege du Plan de l’Eau

The Boismint ski area has been redesigned to provide improved skier traffic flow through-out the area. The Plan de l’Eau chair lift has been replaced by another 6 seater detachable chair lift. If you have used this lift in the past then you will know it needs replacing and this will make a huge difference. The new lift will take skiers up higher than the old ski lift and will serve a greater vertical drop and also open up a direct link to the Caron area.

Club Med’s New Hotel – Val Thorens Sensations

Posted on: September 26th, 2014 by SkiGB

For previous visitors of Val Thorens you would have most likely come across the big Club Med Hotel at the bottom of the resort, or in fact you may have even stayed there. Well Club Med have decided to replace this Hotel with a brand new Resort (it’s really a Hotel but they call it a resort so we best go along with it) and have called it Val Thorens Sensations.

Val Thorens Club Med Sensations 2014

At the end of last season it didn’t look like it was quite ready to open its doors, but they said it will be complete in time for the December 2014 opening.

CLICK for the latest review and information about the Club Med Sensations Hotel

Club Med is extremely elated and proud to announce that it will open new purpose built ski resort Hotel, Val Thorens Sensations, in December 2014. Situated in one of the most sought after ski destinations in the French Alps – Val Thorens in the Trois Vallées – the brand new ski-in and ski-out Resort will have an amazing view of the breathtakingly beautiful snowcapped mountains, perfect and immediate access to the slopes and mouth-watering cuisine by a Michelin Star chef.

Val Thorens is at an altitude of 2,300m — the highest ski resort in all of Europe. It is designed to offer an unforgettable experience to guests and skiers of all age groups and skiing capabilities. There are more than 330 ski slopes that offer various activities, some of which include an on-ice driving experience and winter mountain biking to name a few.

A Val Thorens Hotel Customised for YOU!

Continuing with the rich tradition of personalising its holidays for guests, Club Med have designed Val Thorens Sensations by taking into consideration the choices and suggestions of its 1.3 million Facebook users. They were asked to vote on a wide range of features such as the name of the resort, its logo, all its design features and other activities. Based on the results gathered from about 13 different countries, the complete resort along with the skiing arrangement, the catering, wellness and other innovations were perfectly designed.

Skiing Arrangements and Conditions

This brand new Hotel in Val Thorens from the famous Club Med, designed and built based on user preferences and choices, is located in the heart of the Trois Vallées. In addition to the superb skiing adventure, the Val Thorens Sensations also offers some of the most exciting après-ski facilities. The hotel is designed to strike a chord with the young and youthful users; it is modern and sophisticated, complete with all amenities. The architecture is designed by Studio Arch and the interior design is done to perfection by Sophie Jacquim. It strikes a balance between modern and traditional, keeping the local Alpine-spirit intact. Moreover, the rooms have huge windows that overlook the mountainous landscape.

Fine Dining Cuisine

In addition to the memorable skiing experience, guests can also indulge in a plethora of food choices. There will be three different fine dining restaurants that serve local, gourmet and delicious food all through the day. Visitors can enjoy the different experience of dining from 7.30 in the morning until midnight, and there will also be a fresh buffet inspired by local cuisine. In addition to this, you will find a self-service takeaway for your daily travels.

Epicurus, Val Thorens Sensations’ main concept based restaurant, will have menus designed and developed by the Michelin star chef and French Master Eduoard Loubet. And being native to the Val Thorens, he is a big fan of local produce.

Wellness and Fitness

The Val Thorens Sensations has exhaustive state-of-the-art wellness, fitness and sportive activities. Along with skiing in the Alps, guests can also enjoy the well-decked training facilities and courses. As requested by the Club Med users on Facebook, this modern ski resort is also said to feature an adventurous climbing wall in the centre of the Hotel, a spa and free access to a super-sophisticated Turkish bath.

Modern Digital Innovations

This Val Thorens Hotel is also said to feature a new set of digital innovations to provide the guests with a seamless communication experience. Guests can check in on their mobile, enjoy interactive screens, in-room TVs and digital kiosks. The hotel will also provide real-time information to people about surprise events, activity schedules, social media news and menu choices. And you’ll find high-speed internet connectivity everywhere — including the slopes! Moreover, the dedicated app provides easy booking and other information about the resort to anyone, anywhere.

And this is what it will look like once complete

According to Madeleine Clow, the General Manager of Club Med Australia and New Zealand, the Val Thorens Sensations is a revolutionary addition to their ever-evolving European snow holiday offering. By providing a customised experience to their guests, the resort’s innovations, excellent ski conditions and unique resort features, the resort will offer a memorable experience to everyone.

If this is something that interests you for the coming season they are offering some early doors discounts over on their website.

Ski Season 2014 – 2015 Resort opening Dates

Posted on: August 16th, 2014 by SkiGB

The summer is coming to an end which means only one thing, it’s time to think about this years ski season!

The ski resorts of the 3 Valleys have released their opening and closing dates for this season, here they are:

Val Thorens: 22nd November 2014 to 10th May 2015

Les Menuires: 6th December 2014 to 24th April 2015

Mottaret: 6th December 2014 to 24th April 2015

Meribel: 6th December 2014 to 24th April 2015

La Tania: 13th December 2014 to 24th April 2015

Courchevel 1850: 6th December 2014 to 24th April 2015

Courchevel 1650: 6th December 2014 to 24th April 2015

Courchevel 1550: 6th December 2014 to 24th April 2015

Courchevel 1300: 6th December 2014 to 24th April 2015

There you have it, if you would like to see what apartments are available to stay in head over to Apartments for Rent page!

Cheap Eurostar Train Tickets to France

Posted on: July 29th, 2014 by SkiGB

We know we are all in the swing of summer and not really thinking too much about this coming winter ski season (unless you are like us when we are counting the days!).

We have have been quiet over the last couple of months working on new things for this season but when something important happens we have to break our silence.

Every year Eurostar release early-bird cheap tickets for the coming winter ski season, these are often a lot cheaper and get bought up VERY quickly! The time is upon us once again so get prepared and get up early to buy your cheap Eurostar tickets, here are the details you need:

Date of Ticket Release: 31st July 2014

What do you need to do?:

These tickets go very quickly, we mean within hours possibly minutes for school holidays so have the dates you want ready.
Also have a couple of reserve dates ready in case your first choice has already gone.
Get up early and be on the Eurostar website at the right time and keep refreshing your browser when you are close to the release time. Doing this you will see the BUY button quickly.
Make sure you have enough money in your bank account (maybe have a spare card just in case).

You don’t have a lot of time (going by the previous few years) so if you need confirmation from friends/family to see if they are going, you should have this sorted in advance!!

Now that you have the travel sorted don’t forget to look at our early bird prices for accommodation for Courchevel Apartments, Meribel Apartments and Val Thorens Apartments.

Our new website and service is coming very soon so follow us on Twitter, Facebook or this blog and we will keep you informed.

Here is the all important link to the Eurostar Ticket website and good luck! :

End of Season 2013/14 in the 3 Valleys

Posted on: May 11th, 2014 by SkiGB

Today sees the last day of skiing for this season, Val Thorens closes shop for another term and already we are looking forward to next season.

Even though the lifts are closing down for a well earned rest the snow continues to fall! Yes as we write outside is a complete white-out!

Val Thorens Last Day of the Season

BUT never fear snow fans you can still enjoy the mountains over the summer as all the resorts in the 3 Valleys will open their ski lifts for a number of weeks. This is a great chance to get to see those fantastic views you can see in season but this time without any snow on it!

We have created a quick run down of each of the resorts in the 3 Valleys with their schedule on our 3 Valleys in the Summer page.

But if you can’t wait until the snow is available again you only need to wait 195 days and the season 2014/15 opens for business!

The team at SkiGB.com would like to thank our readers for all their great comments through-out the season and hope to meet many of you next season. We will now have a little break from Val Thorens and the 3 valleys and find a sunny spot to start work on next seasons service.

Speaking of which next season our service is EXPLODING! oh yes. There will be more news, more data and more ways to read, watch and experience next season!

If you would like to be kept up to date follow our Twitter or Facebook account or keep popping back to our blog and we will keep you informed.

Enjoy the sun everyone!

The 3 Valleys in the Summer

Posted on: May 11th, 2014 by SkiGB

Just because most of the snow has left us for a while (the glacier will still have some snow on it but sadly not enough to ski on) the 3 valleys is still a wonderful place to visit. In fact in July the sun is out and it’s a beautiful place to be.

Many of the SkiGB.com staff visit Val Thorens and Meribel over the summer to get a tan (oh yes that’s possible!!), relax and take in the stunning views.

If this is something you would like to experience yourself here is a run down of the each of the resorts opening dates:

Val Thorens, Les Menuires and Courchevel

All three of these resorts will be opening their lifts from 6th July until 29th August 2014.

Meribel

Meribel will be opening their lifts from 29th June until 29th August 2014.

Details on links about lift passes can be found here on our Val Thorens Lift Pass page.

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Telesiege de la Portette

Telesiege du Plan de l’Eau

Club Med’s New Hotel – Val Thorens Sensations

A Val Thorens Hotel Customised for YOU!

Skiing Arrangements and Conditions

Fine Dining Cuisine

Wellness and Fitness

Modern Digital Innovations

Ski Season 2014 – 2015 Resort opening Dates

Cheap Eurostar Train Tickets to France

End of Season 2013/14 in the 3 Valleys

The 3 Valleys in the Summer

Snow Subjects

Ski Resort Accommodation

General Information

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