There is no better trip away than skiing as it encompasses every aspect you could wish for. Here are our top tips for planning a luxe ski trip in the French Alps…

Is there anything more refined and luxurious than skiing? Not in my book, although, of course, there is much more to planning such a break than packing your snowboard and hitting the slopes. In fact, there is a wealth of facilities and accommodation to take advantage of in the picturesque region of Val d’Isère. Keep reading to find out what they are. 

Getting there 

Luxury trips usually start with first or business class flights, and there is no reason that your visit to Val d’Isère cannot do the same. However, it is worth noting that most travellers fly into Lyon in France or Geneva in Switzerland when arriving at Val d’Isere. 

Then the options include taking the train or bus to Val d Isere. However, many people prefer to hire a luxury vehicle and drive themselves or get someone to chauffeur them to their accommodation. 

However, there are closer airports, including Grenoble and Chambéry. Unfortunately, these designations have a lot fewer flights and transfers, so it can make these options more tricky. Of course, if you are going out all luxury and opting for a private plane, Grenoble or Chambéry can work perfectly. 

Where to stay 

There are plenty of places to stay when you reach Val d’Isère. The first option is to go to a hotel, of which there is no shortage. In fact, as something of a travel hotspot, there are plenty of high-end hotels from which to pick. 

One such five-star offering is the Hotel Avenue Lodge Avenue Olympique, famous for its friendly and attentive staff. It is not just the employees that make the Hotel Avenue Lodge, though, as it’s brimming with high-end facilities such as a very luxurious spa and swimming pool. The perfect place to soak your aching bones and sore joints after a hard day hitting the mountain. 

Then there is the Hôtel Christiania located on Rue du Parc des Sports, which is less than 300m from both of the ski lifts in the resort. A little more rustically decorated than the Avenue Lodge, the Christiania still earns its 5-star rating with top quality customer service and spacious, clean rooms. You can expect an indoor pool, gym, and salon treatment area too. 

However, if you are looking for a slightly different experience, although still at the higher end of the scale, why not opt for a private chalet? There are also plenty of these to be found in the area. Although the Chalet Machapuchare in Val d’Isère is one of the most highly sought-after. It’s not hard to see why either because there you will find a space decorated to the highest standards in a modern rustic style. Complete with a bar, balcony, and a cinema room. 

Then there is the heated indoor swimming pool, the outdoor hot tub, and the fully equipped gym. The ski room with heated boot racks and a minibar is not to be sniffed at either. Of course, the best thing about Chalet Machapuchare is that it houses up to 15 guests. Therefore if you want to travel in a large group, you can all stay together in perfect luxury. 

The Skiing

Undoubtedly, you will want to spend most of your time on the slope when visiting Val d’Isère. After all, they have some of the best courses on offer in the whole of the French Alp region. 

La Fornet – Mangard, a blue run suitable for most levels, is one of the most popular. However, if you are looking for something a little more challenging, there is La Face (No. 7). A run that is well known throughout Europe. Be sure to head over there at lunchtime (12-2) as this is when the snow is the right condition for a perfect run. 

Places to eat 

A truth that remains constant over time is that skiing and other snowbound sports and activities build up the appetite. Good news for any gastronomes as the cuisine of the French Alps is delicious. There are plenty of places in which you can sit and sample it, too. 

The first of these to try is cozy and traditional La Peau de Vache .Complete with its wax candles, retro decor, and much-loved Tartiflette. That’s a dish made with sliced potatoes, bacon, and delicious melted reblochon cheese that you must not miss!

Then there is L’Atelier D’Edmond, where they offer a fine-dining experience like no other. In fact, in L’Atelier D’Edmond, you can expect, amongst other things, delicious pigeon breasts to be roasted on a personal smoker in front of you! An experience at this luxury 2 Michelin starred restaurant that you won’t want to miss!