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Val Thorens: Europe’s Highest with Epic Slopes and Après-Ski Vibes
Dan Woodcock • May 2, 2025

Experience Europe’s highest slopes, unbeatable snow, and non-stop après-ski fun.

A wide shot showing Val Thorens ski resort from one of the pistes above it

Val Thorens Ski Resort - The Highest and Simply One of the Best in Europe

At 2300 metres, Val Thorens isn’t just the highest ski resort in Europe - it’s a snow-sure playground loved by skiers of all levels. Nestled in the heart of the iconic 3 Valleys, Val Thorens offers world class skiing, a buzzing après scene, and modern accommodation with unbeatable ski in, ski out access.


Whether you're a seasoned skier, a first-timer, or just here for the atmosphere, here's why Val Thorens deserves a spot on your winter wishlist.



Skiing & Snowboarding in Val Thorens

Val Thorens is part of 3 Valleys, the largest interconnected ski area in the world, with over 600km of pistes across eight resorts. From wide, confidence boosting blues to challenging black runs and off piste terrain, it’s ideal for skiers and boarders of every level.


  • Snow-sure from November to May thanks to its altitude and glacier skiing
  • Easy access to Méribel and Courchevel via fast, modern lifts
  • Great for intermediates and advanced skiers, with plenty of variety
  • Superb freestyle terrain in the VT Snowpark, and lots of off piste routes


Beginners are also well catered for, with dedicated nursery areas, a top-rated ESF ski school, and wide, mellow runs to build confidence.



Après-Ski & Nightlife

Val Thorens is just as famous for its après-ski scene as it is for its slopes. The party often starts on the mountain and continues well into the night.


  • La Folie Douce - the iconic slopeside venue with DJs, sax players, dancers, and table top dancing in ski boots
  • Bar 360 – sunny terrace, live music, and a young, energetic crowd
  • Malaysia – Europe’s highest nightclub, built into a bunker beneath the resort centre


Whether you’re after a lively beer with friends, cocktails with a view, or a full blown night out, Val Thorens delivers.



Accommodation in Val Thorens

Val Thorens offers a wide range of modern, purpose-built accommodation, some are ski-in, ski-out for maximum convenience. Options range from budget-friendly apartments to high end residences and hotels, making it great for all types of travellers.


Popular picks include:


  • Les Balcons – large apartments ideal for groups and families with swimming pool and spa area
  • Village Montana residences - made up of various residences, Village Montana offers stylish apartments with doorstep skiing with catering options
  • Le Cheval Blanc – well located, great-value apartments offering easy reach of shops, restaurants, and the slopes



Dining in Val Thorens

The resort is packed with options for eating out, from traditional Savoyard dishes to gourmet cuisine.


  • L’Auberge - cosy, traditional restaurant within the Les Balcons complex, serving hearty mountain favourites like fondue and raclette
  • La Grange - authentic and atmospheric, known for its wood-fired meats, fondue, and warm chalet style setting
  • John’s Scandinavian Brasserie & Wine Bar - stylish and welcoming, offering Nordic inspired cuisine, fine wines, and a modern twist on alpine dining


There are also plenty of casual spots for pizza, burgers, and quick bites between runs.



Getting to Val Thorens

  • Approx. 3.5 hours from Geneva, Grenoble and Lyon on shared transfers
  • Transfer options include shared buses or quicker private transfers
  • The final ascent involves 30+ hairpin bends – but it’s worth the climb!



Why Choose Val Thorens?

  • Guaranteed snow thanks to its altitude and long season
  • Part of the 3 Valleys - with endless terrain to explore
  • Legendary après-ski and nightlife
  • Modern lifts and well designed resort layout
  • Excellent for groups, couples, families, and snow lovers of all ages



Book Your Ski Holiday to Val Thorens

Val Thorens combines epic skiing, unbeatable snow reliability, and a buzzing atmosphere, making it one of the top ski resorts in France and Europe. Whether you're here to ski dawn to dusk, enjoy the après scene, or soak up the views with a hot chocolate in hand, it ticks every box.

 


Ready to hit the highest slopes in Europe?
Browse our latest Val Thorens ski deals and get ready for your next alpine adventure.

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