Val d’Isere the ultimate A-Z

Arguably one of the best ski resorts in the world, no-one can deny that Val d’Isère is one of the most popular resorts with VIP SKI returning Clients. Val d’Isère offers terrific skiing at a high altitude with almost guaranteed snow cover; all of this in a beautiful setting with a cheeky side for those who are looking to enjoy the night-life. Read on for our A- Z guide of this fabulous ski resort.

A: is for Altitude

At 1850m Val d’Isere is among the highest resorts in Europe. What’s more, the skiing altitude spans from 1550 – 3465 m and offers a staggering 300km of pistes.

B: is for Beginner

Val d’Isere has a reputation for being a resort for expert skiers, but with recent improvements it is incredibly beginner friendly. The original nursery slope with a free chair-lift is on the Front de Neige in the village centre, there is another beginner area at La Daille. However, the 2 year redevelopment of the Solaise ski area now provides a fantastic area for beginners served by 3 magic carpet lifts.

C: is for Cocoricos

You will find this popular après ski spot in the heart of Val d’Isere right on the nursery slopes. A live band gets the party started each day before a DJ takes over from 6pm - 8pm. You will definitely spot your chalet hosts here on their day off.

D: is for Dicks Tea Bar

For those looking to party into the early hours then you must visit the infamous ‘Dicks’. The after dinner club kicks off from 11pm with a music mix from the resident DJ, often accompanied by live sax and electric violin players.

E: is for Exceptional snow record

Val d’Isere has a consistent snow record but it is also one of the largest artificial snow making operations in the world, which allows it to offer a long season from late November right through to May.

F: is for Folie Douce

One of the most popular après ski venues in the Alps. This place provides an open air party, on the piste. Check it out from 2pm to enjoy live musicians, cabaret and an après-ski party like you’ve never experienced before! Dancing on the tables is expected…

G: is for Grand Motte

Pick a clear day and head over to Tignes where you can access the Grand Motte Glacier. The cable car takes you up to 3453m where you really will feel like you’re on top of the world.

H: is for Hot tub

There’s no better way to finish a day skiing than in sat in a warm bubbling hot tub with a glass of something cold.

I: is for Ice driving

Go karts, bikes and cars … on ice! If you fancy testing your driving skills, tearing around an 800 meter circuit with 16 twists and turns, then this is definitely for you.

J: is for Jealous

Quite simply what your friends will be when you share your Val d’Isere holiday snaps.

K: is for Kids

There’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained on and off the slopes with husky sleigh rides, skidooing, ice skating, swimming pools and even an igloo evening! Our private nanny service will also ensure parents get some well-deserved ‘me’ time and just as importantly, that the children have a fun and enjoyable holiday.

L: is for Leissieres

Nicknamed the ‘up and over’ chairlift, Leissieres connects Le Fornet with Solaise. This is a must do experience if visiting Val d’Isere, it’s a real tummy turner with breath-taking views as you journey over the peak of the mountain.

M: is for Marmot

Everyone’s favourite alpine critter, marmot spotting is a sure-fire way to keep everyone entertained, how many can you spot from the chairlifts?

N: is for Night skiing

If a day’s skiing is not enough then maybe you’d like the unforgettable experience of skiing by moonlight. This is a unique experience which can be enjoyed by all levels of skier.

O: is for is for Oxygene

We have partnered with Oxygene for years. They’re a highly respected and professionally run ski school, with a refreshingly forward thinking and innovative attitude. Remember, you’re never too cool for (ski) school.

P: is for Pamper

We partner with Ski Physio in Val d’Isere to offer an in chalet massage service. Mix and match techniques from the most soothing to incredibly brutal, to focus on aches and pains or simply for a luxurious full body treatment.

Q: is for Quarterpipe

Generally found in the snowpark a quarterpipe is carved into the snow and used for often massive and impressive aerial tricks. Those who dare can pull off flairs, twists and backflips.

R: is for Rosé

Spring skiing is not complete without Rosé wine and where else should you stop for a glass of rosé than at Rosee Blanche. This is a firm favourite with the VIP SKI Sales Team with a large terrace and a superb atmosphere. You’ll find it at the bottom of La Daille pistes.

S: is for Snowpark

The snow park is worth a visit even if you’re not brave enough to take part. It’s fascinating to watch those who dare pull tricks and jumps off the half pipe, kickers and rails.

T: is for Tignes

Tignes is the neighbouring resort that makes up the expansive Espace Killy ski area. If you are exploring Tignes be sure to visit the L’Aguille Percee (eye of the needle) the striking rock formation sitting at 2800m and the perfect picture spot.

U: is for Unforgettable memories

These 3 ski phrases sum it up perfectly; “Skiing is more than a sport, it is a way of life”; “A pair of skis are the ultimate transportation to freedom.”; “You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy a ski pass”.

V: is for Vallee Perdue

If going off piste feels a little too daring then seek out Vallee Perdue… an adventure that finds you winding through the vallee, squeezing through rocks, navigating lumps and bumps and emerging victorious at the other end.

W: is for Walking (snow shoeing)

Snow-shoeing is a great way to explore the mountains. You can truly find yourself in another world, with nothing but the sound of a marmotte scurrying in the undergrowth and maybe a mountain spring trickling by.

X: is for XV (Bar 15)

Rugby-lovers will be right at home at The XV Bar, which is half-mountain hut and half-rugby club dressing room. The rugby theme continues through to the rugby ball-shaped beer glasses, while matches are shown on large screens dotted around the bar.

Y: is for Yoghurt

Cooking a cake at altitude can be tricky business due to the reduced air pressure. The secret of a perfect cake for afternoon tea lies in the intriguing ingredient of yoghurt!