Perched at 2,300m and part of the huge Three Valleys ski area, Val Thorens hits the high notes in more ways than one. 600km of slopes, linked by speedy lifts, makes this a true piste paradise. Getting there is a breeze too, thanks to great-value Jet2 ski flights to nearby Chambery Airport. So, what are you waiting for?

The resort

The town is purpose-built, packed with everything you could need for a winter retreat. Mountains loom large in every direction and most of the accommodation is ski-in, ski-out, so you can go from snoozing to the slopes in no time. It’s easy to get around the resort and the public buses are free to use with your lift pass. Travelling with tots? There’s a dedicated children’s ski area where they can practise their turns, plus lots of English-speaking ski schools. Big kids and small kids alike will want to try out the Cosmojet, the longest toboggan run in France!

The slopes

With the lifts usually open from the end of November to the beginning of May, Val Thorens has got you covered all season long. Stretching from Les Menuires on one side to Courchevel at the other, you’ll be in prime position for exploring the world’s largest connected ski area. Start things slow on the Dalles, accessed from the top of the Cascades chairlift. This blue is nice and wide and takes you all the way back into town. Confident on reds? Hop on the Peclet gondola and cruise down the long, winding Christine run. You’ll get some knockout views of Val Thorens on your way down. If the resort is particularly busy, give the crowds the slip by heading down to the Boismint area below the town.

The après

One of the resort’s main draws is its après activities. On the mountain, you can’t beat La Folie Douce. Soak up the views from the huge terrace, then dance along to live music. 360 Bar is handily located on the run back to the resort, so it’d be rude not to pop in for a post-ski pint. Missing your home comforts? Make your way to the Frog, which serves up hearty pub classics. Pie on the piste, anyone? Beyond the bars, you’ll find a bowling alley, sports centre complete with a heated indoor pool, and even a cinema. It’s fab for foodies too, with everything from fine-dining restaurants to cosy cafés dishing up Savoyard specialties.