Top Things to Do in Val d’Isère

Val d’Isère is considered one of the world’s favourite spots for a ski holiday in France. It is renowned for its lively nightlife, luxury ski accommodation and excellent skiing, courtesy of its prime location in the Tignes-Val d’Isère ski area. With more than 100 ski lifts across the resort, keen skiers and snowboarders can enjoy vast and varied terrain. With an altitude of 1,850m, the resort boasts snow reliability. There is even a glacier to be skied at 3,000m! The town itself is beautiful, with classic chalets, snow-topped buildings and gourmet Alpine diners. If you are after an après-ski tipple, there are plenty of bars that serve everything from a sophisticated vin chaud to table stomping parties. Val d’Isère offers an exciting winter break for every preference, with a fabulous choice of activities both on and off the slopes. Here is our pick of the top things to do in Val d’Isère.

Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is a magical winter activity and undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Val d’Isère. Share an unforgettable journey with your very own pack of dogs. Let a guide help you navigate your way through the winter forests and untouched tracks of Val d’Isère. You can drive yourself or sit back and relax. Take in the beautiful landscapes as you reach exciting speeds. You also have the opportunity to learn more about the history of these wonderful sled dogs. Many were used for Arctic explorations almost 8,000 years ago! Experiencing these animals in their natural snowy environment is magical. It’s not surprising that dog sledding is a popular activity in the resort, so our top tip is to book early.

Photo Credit: Airelles

Paragliding

Take to the skies and observe Val d’Isère from a whole new perspective. Ski straight off the slopes and into the air. Soar above the mountains on a paragliding flight and soak up the most beautiful winter scenery. Watch over tiny skiers and snow-kissed chalets as you glide through the skies. Paragliding is renowned for being a thrilling experience, but it also offers a true sense of peace as you glide through the air. During your paragliding flight, you will have the supervision of an instructor. This means you can sit back and fully immerse yourself in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Moonbiking

Moonbiking is a unique winter activity to try out in Val d’Isère. The vehicle is a cross between a snowmobile and a motocross bike. This thrilling experience allows you to race across the mountains around an action-packed circuit. If you are feeling competitive, this is a great opportunity to have some fun with your family and friends. Moonbiking is a seriously exciting activity, with the bikes reaching high speeds and plenty of twists and turns around the circuit. You will also enjoy magnificent views during your ride, surrounded by mountain peaks and snowy landscapes. Moonbiking is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Val d’Isère.

Photo Credit: Evolution 2

Snow Shoeing

Clip on your snow shoes and explore the mountains on foot. You can spend hours exploring untouched tracks, winter forests and pretty streets across the village and surrounding mountains. Buy a pedestrian lift pass for your explorations and hike at heights of up to 2,500m. Experiencing the mountains on foot is blissful. The slower pace also allows you to take in the expansive landscapes. If you like to have a plan, you can get itineraries and guides to help you on your way. Mountain professionals are also on hand to lead you down the most breathtaking hiking routes.

Heliskiing

Heliskiing or boarding is a thrilling and exclusive way to enjoy backcountry adventures in Val d’Isère. Travelling to your ski spot by private helicopter is an unforgettable experience in itself. Fly above mountain peaks and untouched scenery before dropping onto fresh powder for your descent. Carve your own path as you make your way down an unspoilt path of your choice. There are various drop zones you can choose from, so your adventure is catered exactly to your preference. You can also choose between one, two or three descents as part of your tailored experience.

Swimming

Swap your skis for swimsuits and head to the sports and swimming pool complex, Aquasportif. The swimming pool boasts water fountains, whirlpools, swimming lanes, and kids areas. With activities suitable for every age, this is the perfect way to spend a non-ski day with your family and friends. There are also plenty of opportunities to relax, with sun loungers, hot tubs and a soothing sauna. If you are looking to keep fit whilst on your ski holiday, Aquasportif also has a gym and various sports facilities to enjoy.

To find out more about the top things to do in Val d’Isère, call our ski experts on 020 7471 7700.