Best Ski Runs in Val Thorens

Val Thorens is notorious for being the highest ski resort in Europe. The ski village is set at a mammoth 2,300m and the ski elevation reaches a huge 3,230m. Some of the best ski runs in the world are in Val Thorens. The height and the sheer scale of the ski region ensure skiers return year after year. With more than 600km of pistes to explore, it is a playground for seasoned skiers. There is plenty for beginners too, with the majority of accommodation being ski-in ski-out, first-timers can easily locate the nearby ski schools.

Val Thorens is near three airport hubs, Chambery (1 hour 35 minutes), Grenoble (3 hours), and Geneva (3 hours 30 minutes). It is a top choice for early-season and late-season departures because of the snow record. Val Thorens is part of the Three Valleys ski area, one of the largest ski areas in the world. Skiers will have easy access to Courchevel and Méribel, two of the most exclusive ski resorts when it comes to France ski holidays.

In addition to its mammoth height, direct access, and snow reliability, Val Thorens also boasts excellent ski runs. With the large ski area, there is a great range of easy, intermediate, and advanced slopes. Here is our top picks of the best ski runs in Val Thorens.

Tête Ronde (Blue)

Take the VT13 Peclet gondola from Val Thorens resort base and ease yourself into a cruisy blue. Skiers will see signs from the top of the lift for Tête Ronde, a long, winding slope that is an excellent run to start the day off. Warm up and take in the beautiful views of the valley as you traverse down the easy blue slope.

VT Fun Ride Family Park (Green)

This slope can be found in the centre of the piste map, with access either via the VT14 Cascades chairlift down the green Dalles slope or via the VT27 Les 2 Lacs chairlift which parks you directly outside the run. The VT Fun Ride Family Park has a space theme, featuring stars, planets, and meteorites along the route. From the entrance of the slopes, skiers will be met with a series of small jumps, tunnels, and novelty challenges. Little ones will be delighted with the fun slope, it’s the perfect way to ensure they enjoy the activity of skiing. According to kids, it is one of the best ski runs in Val Thorens!

Christine (Red)

If you a looking for a more challenging slope to get your day going, take the VT13 Peclet gondola to the top and follow signs for slope Christine. This run follows the same route as Tête Ronde initially, but tails off into a more intermediate piste. This is a good route to take if you have a mixed-ability group because depending on ski skill, members of your crowd can choose whether to take the easy or steep piste, returning to the same destination.

Combe de Caron (Black)

Visit the peak of Combe de Caron for spectacular views and advanced skiing. The VT33 Cime Caron gondola will ferry you to the second-highest peak and one of the best ski runs in Val Thorens. Take the Combe de Caron slope down the piste and follow the gondola’s line, ultimately turning into a red slope. For those who find black slopes intimidating, skiers can opt for the Col de l’audzin red piste. This slope has a black slope option halfway if you are up for the challenge.

Plein Sud (Blue)

Plein Sud is arguably one of the most iconic and best ski runs in Val Thorens. A trip to the region is not complete unless you have taken the chairlift over the buzzing Folie Douce. The chairlift offers excellent views of the popular après bar, ideal for seeking out the perfect dancing spot for you and your group. Once you’ve enjoyed the live music and entertainment acts, the next feat will be skiing down the Plein Sud slope. We recommend leaving just before the bar winds down, so you can get ahead of the crowds as they make their way down the run.

Portette (Red)

Take the VT23 Portette chairlift to the top and be spoiled for excellent views. The ski run is located just below 3,000m, so skiers can be reassured that it is snow-sure. The red trail returns to the ski resort, where skiers have plenty of choices in every direction. Should you choose to carry on, take the Hermine slope and Cumin slope directly into the Les Menuires valley.

VT Park (Mixed)

If you have park fanatics in your group, take the Moutière chairlift up to the Plateaux piste. The snowpark has a boardercross, three freestyle zones (which vary in difficulty), an airbag jump, rails, and a half-pipe. Cruise around the kickers and features if you are looking to push yourself. The snow in Val Thorens can be compact in the morning, so it’s best to visit the snowpark in the afternoon when the snow is soft – a much nicer landing!

To find out more about the best ski runs in Val Thorens, call our ski experts on 020 7471 7700.