Val Thorens, the highest ski resort in Europe, is renowned for its snow-sure slopes, vibrant après-ski scene, and access to the expansive Three Valleys ski area. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or taking to the slopes for the first time, Val Thorens promises a memorable alpine experience.
To make the most of your time in the French Alps, many travellers choose accommodation in nearby high-end accommodation options like a catered chalet Val d’Isère, offering a blend of luxury service, excellent meals, and easy connections to the wider ski region.
Here’s a suggested seven-day itinerary to help you plan the perfect ski week at snow sure resorts like val thorens.
Table of Contents
Day 1: Arrival and Orientation
After arriving in the Alps and transferring to your accommodation, use the first day to get settled. Pick up your lift pass, rent any necessary equipment, and familiarise yourself with the layout of Val Thorens village. Take a walk through the resort, stop for a coffee, and get a feel for the relaxed yet energetic atmosphere. If time allows, take a few easy runs to warm up — the short greens near the village are perfect for easing into the week.
Day 2: Discover Val Thorens Slopes
Kick off your ski week with a full day exploring Val Thorens’ extensive terrain. With over 150 km of local pistes, there’s plenty to keep all skill levels entertained. Beginners can build confidence on wide blue runs like “Tête Ronde,” while more advanced skiers might challenge themselves on red runs such as “Christine” or “Col.” The area around the Moraine lift is a good place to start, offering excellent snow and varied runs.
Day 3: Explore the Belleville Valley
On your third day, venture beyond Val Thorens to Les Menuires and Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. These resorts, still part of the Three Valleys, are quieter and provide scenic skiing through tree-lined runs and traditional alpine villages. Stop for lunch at a rustic mountain restaurant and enjoy some local Savoyard cuisine, such as croziflette or beef bourguignon.
Day 4: High-Altitude Adventure
Spend Day 4 skiing the glacier terrain at Cime Caron, which offers some of the highest and most spectacular runs in the region. With sweeping views over the Alps, it’s a must for intermediate and advanced skiers. For a different experience, book a half-day of off-piste skiing or a guided snowshoe hike to explore untouched parts of the mountain.
Day 5: Midweek Recovery and Relaxation
Use the fifth day as a lighter one to recharge. Try out some of Val Thorens’ non-ski activities — the resort has a large sports centre with a swimming pool, wellness area, and gym. For something more adventurous, you could go tobogganing, ice driving, or take a ride on the resort’s thrilling zip line. Enjoy a long lunch and soak up the mountain sun on a terrace overlooking the pistes.
Day 6: Ski to Méribel or Courchevel
If you’ve purchased the full Three Valleys lift pass, spend Day 6 skiing into Méribel or even Courchevel. These resorts offer different terrain and atmospheres, with wooded slopes, luxurious dining spots, and new views. It’s a big day, so start early and plan your route back carefully to avoid being stranded in the wrong valley at the end of the day.
Day 7: Final Turns and Farewell
On your final day, revisit your favourite runs from the week. This is the time to ski with confidence, enjoy the familiar terrain, and maybe challenge yourself with one last descent down a black run. Wrap up the week with a celebratory drink at one of Val Thorens’ lively après-ski venues, like Bar 360 or La Folie Douce, and reflect on an incredible week in the Alps.