Having never been to Val Thorens before, a group of friends and I decided to spend New Year in the Three Valleys and it certainly did not disappoint! Why don’t you try a New Year holiday to the Three Valleys?!
New Year is THE peak holiday date and arguably THE most desirable week in the mountains, meaning it is always the quickest to sell. Many people worry about the busy slopes, but I have to say that the Three Valleys was a great ski area to be in during this time as you have such a vast number of runs to choose from for all grades of skier/boarder. As a result, you also have a plethora of mountain restaurants and cafes to enjoy an energising hot chocolate break and hearty lunch to fuel the afternoon on the slopes. And then of course, there is the après ski!
Here are my top 5 reasons to go skiing at New Year in the Three Valleys;
#1 World’s Largest Interconnected Ski Area
If you are looking for variety then look no further! All abilities of skier will enjoy the Three Valleys, with a huge assortment of terrain, including four glaciers and differing altitudes. Located between two and three hours from Geneva airport, all Trois Vallees resorts are easily accessible. It is the largest interlinked ski area worldwide, and offers 600km of piste, 342 downhill skiing pistes, 158 ski lifts, and more than 2,700 snow cannons, meaning you’re guaranteed fantastic snow early in the season!
#2 Variety of Resorts
Val Thorens
Val Thorens is the highest resort in Europe. It is a purpose built resort that is compact in its design, making accessibility around the resort very easy! It has a small but very lively village ambience. Intermediates will love the slopes around Val Thorens with its endless blue and red runs, many of which actually run straight back into resort! It is also home to two mogul fields and off piste opportunities on the glaciers.
Courchevel
Courchevel is known worldwide for its extravagance and elegance. The five main villages; La Tania, Le Praz (1300), Courchevel Village (1550), Courchevel Moriond (1650) and Courchevel (1850) are all connected by ski lifts. Courchevel 1850 arguably the most exclusive ski resort in the Alps, perhaps even Worldwide. Courchevel is the epitome of ski-chic, attracting many of the rich and famous. Luxury chalets in Courchevel are without doubt some of the most luxurious alpine properties to rent. Exclusive shopping boutiques and brands, Michelin starred restaurants aplenty, pristine piste grooming, and extravagance from all angles – the perfect combination for a stylish New Year ski holiday!
Meribel
Meribel is known as the heart of the Three Valleys. Sitting in between the Courchevel and Belleville valleys, Meribel offers a perfect blend of traditional alpine charm with modern resort conveniences. It is easy to see why many people have their heart in Meribel. There are fantastic childcare options and some brilliant ski schools that will ensure parents can have plenty of personal time to enjoy their New Year ski holiday celebrations!
La Tania
La Tania was built specifically to provide accommodation for the 1992 Winter Olympics and has a lovely village atmosphere. Its wood-clad buildings sit comfortably in a pretty woodland setting and you can enjoy some lovely tree runs down into the village. This resort is great for those who want to ski in the Three Valleys but might have a smaller budget.
St Martin de Belleville
St Martin de Belleville has an authentic village vibe and is a fantastic luxury family ski resort. It is a far quieter and more traditional resort in the Three Valleys with après centering around more local venues. Enjoy a local Savoyard evening in one of the gastronomic restaurants or listen to live music in one of the family friendly bars.
#3 Special New Year Experiences
New Year is always the best time to enjoy fireworks and you can be sure to be wowed by the spectacular displays lighting up the slopes in the Three Valleys!
For something a little extra special for the occasion why not try one of these experiences?!….
Val Thorens Zip Line
Experience flying through the air like an eagle and soaring over the pistes below!
Ice Diving
Prepare yourself for the ultimate glacial exploration with this adrenaline mounting dive!
Big Jump Airbag
If you want to try out your new moves but know that you have a safe landing then try freestyling as you jump!
Mountain Fat Biking on the Snow
You will get to hurtle down the slopes at the foot of the Peclet glacier after they have closed!
Snowshoeing
For another way to experience the slopes strap on your snowshoes and head out to discover nature!
Paragliding
This is the highest paragliding flight in the Three Valleys, starting from the top of Saulire, and takes you gliding over panoramic views of Mont Blanc.
Husky Sledding in Courchevel
Be warned it is not an easy ride…it is actually hard work! You will guide the dogs up and down hills and under trees – it is energetic, rewarding and the perfect way to celebrate the New Year!
Private slalom stadium races
It doesn’t matter the level of skier you are, just have a go at being a champion for the day! A great way to bring out the competitive streaks within your group!
Yoga in Meribel
The New Year can be a big time for reflection for a lot of people. So why not connect with your senses and surroundings by experiencing a yoga session on the snowy grounds?
Torch-Lit Ski Descent
Experience the different sensation of the slopes lit up only by flamed torches and not the sun!
Ice Driving in Val Thorens
One for the thrill seekers! An ice driving experience could be the perfect Christmas present to your petrolhead loved ones. The ice circuit can be taken on by a kart, SSV or an auto race car.
#4 Après ski haven
The Three Valleys has some of the best après ski in France. The words après ski and La Folie Douce go hand in hand. Val Thorens has arguably one of the most famous Folie Douce’s and mid station between Meribel and Courchevel, you will find another in full flow!
Courchevel has a reputation for world renowned gastronomy, so you can start your New Year evening celebrations in one of Courchevel’s vast number of exceptional restaurants.
If you are looking for après ski beyond La Folie Douce, then check out some of our favourites… Bar 360 in Val Thorens, Rond Point in Meribel and La Mangeoire in Courchevel for the ultimate party!
#5 Luxury accommodation for your stay
Here at Ski In Luxury, we have a wide variety of luxury ski chalets in the Three Valleys for you to see in the New Year in the Alps in true alpine style! Whether you’re seeking a large luxury party chalet to dance and drink in the New Year, or a smaller cosy mountain retreat for a quieter celebration, Ski In Luxury can cater to all your dreams and desires. Check out our selection of New Year ski accommodation in the Alps.
For personal assistance planning your luxury ski holiday in the Three Valleys fr New Year. You can get in touch with us by giving us a call on +44 1202 203650 or if you prefer, you can send us an email.
