Val Thorens
Nestled high in the French Alps, Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe, sitting at an altitude of 2,300 meters. As part of the vast Les 3 Vallées ski area, it offers access to one of the largest linked ski domains in the world. Known for its exceptional snow record, modern infrastructure, and lively après-ski scene, Val Thorens attracts skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
- Resort Altitude: 2,300 m (base) to 3,230 m (highest lift)
- Ski Area: Part of Les 3 Vallées (600 km total)
- Snow Reliability: Excellent – high altitude ensures long, consistent seasons (November to May)
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Val Thorens - Key facts
Resort Altitude
2,300m (base) to 3,230m (highest lift)
Ski Area
Part of Les 3 Vallées (600 km total)
Number Of Runs
Total Number of Runs (Val Thorens)
Number Of Lifts
32 modern lifts in Val Thorens alone
Longest Run
“La Cime Caron” – around 12 km
Travel Time
Approx. 2.5 hours by car or transfer
Val Thorens stands out as a top-tier destination for winter sports enthusiasts thanks to its combination of high-altitude skiing, reliable snow conditions, and modern resort facilities. As the highest resort in Europe (2,300 m), it consistently enjoys one of the longest ski seasons in the Alps, typically from late November through early May. The snow surety here is excellent—thanks to its elevation and north-facing slopes, Val Thorens often boasts over 6 meters of snowfall annually, with well-maintained snowmaking systems covering key areas to ensure top-to-bottom skiing even in leaner seasons.
Whether you're a skier carving down red runs or a snowboarder hitting features in the snowpark, you’ll find conditions to suit nearly every riding style and level. Powder days are common in peak winter months, and the terrain remains skiable deep into spring.
Access to Val Thorens
Access to Val Thorens is relatively straightforward for an alpine resort of its altitude. The closest major airports include:
- Geneva (Switzerland) – approx. 2.5 hours by car or transfer
- Lyon (France) – approx. 2.5–3 hours
- Chambéry – around 2 hours
- Grenoble – around 2.5 hours
Regular shared and private transfers are available from these airports, along with train access to Moutiers, the nearest station, followed by a 1-hour road transfer up to the resort.
Val Thorens Price
In terms of price, Val Thorens offers solid value, especially when you consider the scale and quality of the ski area. While not the cheapest option in the Alps, it is often more affordable than ultra-premium resorts like Courchevel or Zermatt. Lift passes, especially for the Val Thorens/Orelle sector, are less expensive than full Les 3 Vallées access, offering flexibility depending on budget. Accommodation ranges from self-catered apartments to high-end hotels, many of which are ski-in/ski-out, helping visitors maximize time on the slopes.
In short, Val Thorens delivers a premier ski experience with exceptional snow conditions, varied terrain for all skill levels, easy access from major transport hubs, and competitive pricing compared to other high-end Alpine resorts. Whether you're in search of powder, park, piste, or party—this resort truly has it all.
Similar resort guides
Seefeld
Kitzbuhel
Flaine
Les Deux Alpes
Val D’Isere
Val Thorens
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The 10 highest ski resorts in Europe
Europe is home to some of the world’s highest and most snow-sure ski resorts, many sitting well above 2,000 meters.
