| FR
The emblematic Savoy ski resort of Val d'Isère is nestled in the heart of the Vanoise massif. In this resort, which hosted the 1992 Olympic Games among many other international events, ski aficionados of all ages from beginners to seasoned skiers can ski to their heart’s content on an array of pistes. The sportiest resort in the Savoie, this authentic haven is perfect for a long weekend skiing. When the winter season is over and the pistes are empty, Val d'Isère chalet rentals are still something special. The winter wonderland gives way to a rugged green landscape that can be explored on foot or by bike. Authentic Savoy chalets line the village’s narrow streets, with their sloped roofs and stone walls. Stop for a rest at a pavement bistro and get your strength back thanks to local specialties: fondue savoyarde or a glass of Genépi liqueur. Follow our luxury guide to Val D'Isère to make the best out of your trip, all year round.
Val d'Isère, the eternal village
On one side, the jagged mountain crests are silhouetted against the sky. On the other, the hardy pines cover even the most rugged slopes in a coat of evergreen. Sandwiched between the two, the bells of Val d'Isère bravely attempt to impose the hours of men on this timeless landscape. The clock tower has stood here for centuries, surrounded by giants, a comforting sight in this wild, untamed landscape. Its octagonal form and Romanesque stone have stood firm against all comers: avalanches, wars, migrations, and tourism. It is living proof that, although the village may no longer be the isolated mountain hamlet it once was, Val d’Isère has retained its authentic soul.
And when the first notes of a classical concert fill the nave of the church, this history comes to life. Huddled around the historic church, the village’s traditional chalets are a big part of its inimitable charm. Their solid stone façades tower over the lower floors, with their wide wooden balconies. And of course, the roofs are topped with lauze stone tiles, in keeping with Savoyard tradition. In winter, the rooftops are coated with a thick layer of snow, and when the lights come on Val d’Isère transforms into the quaint image of a fairytale Christmas village.
Down in the streets, stroll through the arcades and peer into the windows of the enticing boutiques. It’s hard not to get sucked in by the window display at Maison Chevallot, where spectacular patisseries and pastries jostle for your attention. Amid shelves crumbling under the weight of artisanal jams and other sweet treats, find yourself a table and get stuck into a huge ‘bear paw’ cake and a homemade hot chocolate.
The activities that are on offer in this sporty station are infinite, but of course, most people associate the town with skiing. Situated right next to Tignes, the skiing opportunities are endless, read on to discover all of our top tips for skiing in Val d'Isère.
How to get to Val d'Isère
Car, train, bus or plane… there are many ways to get to Val d'Isère, but don’t forget that some of the mountain roads in the upper Alps are closed in winter. However picturesque those high mountain passes may be, you’ll find yourself confined to the motorway. Avoid wasting a single second of your holiday by taking the night train, which drops you off at Bourg-Saint-Maurice early in the morning. From the station, buses and taxis run regular services up to the village.
When to visit Val d'Isère
Whatever the season, you’ll find the village and the mountains as majestic and serene as ever. A seemingly infinite playground in winter, and a celebration of nature’s riches in summer, Val d’Isère is a spinning vortex of energy all year round. The best option is to visit outside of school holiday times, to really make the most of the valley and its many treasures. April generally offers the magical combination of fine weather and skiable slopes, as well as the International Adventure Film Festival, one of the highlights of the cultural year.
Skiing in Val d'Isère
Strap on your skis and test your nerve against the colossal Face de Bellevarde, peaking at over 2800 metres above sea level. The dizzying view from the summit plunges all the way down to the clock tower, a speck far off in the distance. From the top, follow in the ski trails of the champions who have shaped the legend of this incredible black run, with its 1000 metre drop in altitude. The run takes you right back to the village. From there it’s time to switch lifts and head back up the mountain to the pristine slopes of the Killy zone. This section of the mountain is named for French skiing legend and local hero Jean-Claude Killy. No cables, no pylons, just unspoilt glaciers, peaks and endless expanses of white.
In the mountains around Val d’Isère, some trails demand a little more work than others. The Couloir des Pisteurs is one such route. At the top of the Grand Pré lift, strap your skis to your back and set off on foot towards the summit of Mont Charvet. After half an hour of solid trekking, you’ll find yourself faced with some of the most challenging off-piste descents in the whole station. From here, the view of Pointe de la Sana and Pointe de Méan Martin is all-enveloping. Here, more than anywhere else, you can feel the force of the mountain in full effect. Afterwards, flushed with the warm glow of satisfaction, head towards the familiar clock tower of Val d’Isère and return to civilisation and the comforting warmth of the village.
Experience chalets in Val d’Isère
To better immerse you in the authentic Alpine atmosphere, we have chosen luxury chalets in Val d'Isère inspired by centuries-old mountain village architecture. Rustic style combines with all the modern conveniences of a spacious lounge or bedroom with balcony. From there, you can admire the incredible vista of snowy or grassy peaks, changing with the seasons. In your chalet in Val d'Isère, warm up in a jacuzzi or next to the brick fireplace after a day on the pistes or hiking trails.
Chalet Akaroa
Is there anything better than waking up to the view of the mountains? Maybe the only thing would be watching the sunset over the mountains from your private outdoor jacuzzi! Chalet Akaroa will allow you to do both of these things whilst profiting from the beautiful interiors of the well designed mountain escape.
Chalet Machapuchare
Perched right on the slopes, this modern chalet has everything you'd need for a winter ski trip or a summer break. Equipped with a pool, jacuzzi and a steam room - relax here after a long day on the slopes. Your own boot room will make heading out to ski in the morning a seamless process! Chalet Machapuchare will feel like home.
The best restaurants in Val d'Isère
L'Étable d'Alain
Down on the farm
At L'Étable d'Alain the farmyard décor is as real as it gets, right down to the view of the cows in their barn. But don’t be fooled: the atmosphere may be rustic, but the cuisine is all about precision and style. All of the dishes are prepared right here, mostly with products directly from the farm. And don’t forget to taste their signature dish: La Pella de l'Adroit, a tartiflette made with fresh mountain tomme cheese.
L'Avancher
Authentic charm
L’Avancher is a Val d'Isère classic. Built here in 1949, this chalet is a haven of authenticity and culinary classics. This is the only place in the village where you can still get “Raclette à l'Ancienne” served in the old Savoyard style: the cheese is warmed in the oven and served directly to your plate. Special mention also goes to the Saint-Bernard snails and fresh trout with Apremont.
La Baraque
Food and festivities
La Baraque is a restaurant and wine bar which takes evident pleasure in combining culinary excellence with the effervescent atmosphere of a trendy night spot. The wood-panelled dining room is warm and inviting, with its striking lights. The menu is as elegant as it is diverse, with the irresistible shoulder of milk-fed lamb a particular highlight. After dinner, there’s live music to get you dancing.
Bars
La Folie Douce
High-altitude cabaret
Perched 2400 metres above sea level, La Folie Douce is an astonishing slice of Balearic nightlife transplanted to the Alps. From 1:30pm onwards, the bass lines ring out over the pure white slopes. The snow-lined stage hosts a full programme of DJs, vocalists and performers with a quirky, old-school cabaret vibe. And the cherry on the cake: the food is great and the portions are generous.
Le Bar de L'Ouillette
BBQ by the lake
After a long day on the slopes, there’s nowhere more relaxing than this brightly-coloured terrace. Sip on a glass of mulled wine while resting your legs on one of the loungers, as the irresistible aromas of the barbecue work their magic. Outside, the frozen surface of the Lac de l'Ouillette shimmers in the sun.
Cocorico
Top après-ski
At the foot of the slopes, with your cheeks still pink from the cold and the hard work, round off the day at one of the most popular après-ski locations in the whole resort: Cocorico. The music changes from night to night, but the atmosphere is always festive: there’s every chance you’ll end up dancing on the tables to the sounds of DJ Phil Garner or a live band. After 8, those who want to dance on through the night can take the short walk over to the Doudoune Club.
Shops
Maison Chevallot
Pastry-lovers’ paradise
A pastry-lover’s paradise since 1965, Maison Chevallot is a family affair. These days Patrick is at the helm of this local institution. A passionate pastry chef who has already been crowned French champion, he is also an accomplished baker, chocolate-maker and chef. The boutique on Avenue Olympique also doubles as a tea room, with a handsome terrace where you can tuck into one of Patrick’s famous blueberry tarts. On Thursday evenings, the chef gives lessons in the art of patisserie.
Le Bouquiniste
Mens sana in corpore sano
Standing out amid the rows of ski rental firms and restaurants, Le Bouquiniste is an independent book shop where every last tome is chosen with care by owner Jean-Paul Shafran. As he proudly declares, this is “the only bookshop in the French mountains.” Jean-Paul is passionate about literature, and organises regular meetings with authors. His readers’ choice award, the “Vivre Livre” trophy, is one of the highlights of the cultural calendar in Val d’Isère.
La Fermette de Claudine
A taste of the terroir
Avalin made with unpasteurised milk, Tomme de Savoie, yoghurts... at La Fermette, all of the cheeses and dairy products come from the Adroit family farm. All of the other local treasures on the menu - charcuterie, honey, fruit preserves and more – are delivered in person by the finest producers in the region, all personal friends of the owner.
The Best Activities
Our conciergerie team can organise an array of activities for you during your stay in Val d'Isère, and below are some of our favourites.
Dive beneath the ice
Slip into a dry-suit and jump into the water of an icy lake to discover a mysterious world.
Join a gastronomic adventure
Hop aboard a snowmobile to find a hidden yurt. Then warm up around the fire and a gourmet fondue.
Move with the pack
Discover the peaks leading a pack of mountain dogs, accompanied by the stories of our bold guides.
Race the Biathlon between friends
Learn to shoot air rifles like a pro as you rush through a wintry relay race in teams of 2 to 6.
Conquer the mythical corridors on heliski
Helicopter over the heights of the Alps and compete with a free-ride champion on a dizzying descent.
Secret paths for Nordic skiing
With touring skin on your feet, follow our guides to explore the wildest corners of the Alps.
With Le Collectionist, renting luxury Val D'Isère chalets has never been easier. Explore our collection to discover other luxury chalets for rent in Val D'Isère
