Category Archives: La Tania

51 Things to do until your next ski holiday

51 things to do until your next ski holiday

1. Try wakeboarding – It is like snowboarding!
2. Try grass skiing  – It sounds rubbish, and probably is. There must be a reason you don’t get grass skiing resorts.
3. Try water skiing – It is like skiing but harder, wetter and even more expensive.
4. Go in-line skating  – It might be similar to snow blading but you don’t admit to doing that either.
5. Head out to the Alps and go skiing on a Glacier – There are several to choose from and are open all year round like the Grand Motte in Tignes.
6. Go riding Down Under – There is plenty of skiing and boarding to be done in Australia or New Zealand.
7. Try a snow dome – You have 5 to choose from in the UK.
8. Dry slope skiing Over 50 dry slopes in the UK, so there should be one near you.
9. Ride the Emirates – This is a massive waste of money cable car in central London.
10. Give mountain boarding a go – Don’t be fooled by the name this is mainly done on hills. It is the snowboard equivalent to grass skiing. Expect to sit down quite a bit.


11. Go Surfing – The wet equivalent to mountain boarding and much, much cooler.
12. Sit on a chairlift – There are many located across the UK from the Isle of White to Scotland.
13. Nordic Walking –  It’s like skiing without skis or snow. www.nordicwalking.co.uk
14. Watch Ski or Boarding Movies – There is a great selection on Netflix.
15. Go to a ski show – You will have to wait until October but there is one in Scotland, Manchester and London.
16. Recreate a chalet holiday at home Click here for our handy guide.
17. Look up ski fails on YouTube – We have done it for you. Click for ski fails.
18. Get fit for your next ski holiday – Our friends at BayFitness have made a great video to help you.
19. Learn the Language – Unless you ski in Scotland, Canada or America the language is different so why not learn it.
20. Drink a half larger – Just like the Europeans do. Why not stick some peach syrup in it.


21. Book a ski holiday for next year – And that should probably be a ski holiday to Meribel.
22. Go and see a covers band – This will be like every aprés ski session you have ever been to.
23. Hunt for snow in Scotland – You can find it even in the summer as it is always cold up there.
24. Make a snow globe – It looks pretty easy.
25. Subscribe to a ski magazine – Suggestions, please.
26. Buy some new kit – Go and spend your cash in Snow and Rock or Ellis Brigham. You know you need a new jacket.
27. Bore someone with your ski stories – Someone will listen.
28. Wax & edge your skis or board – You can always get the hire shop to do it properly when you get to the resort.
29. Draw a picture of your nearest hill and add some runs
3o. Read a book about skiing – I am going to read Maggie does Meribel.
31. Drool over winter photos on Facebook – Our Facebook page will be posting plenty.


32. Play Golf – Mainly because many ski resorts are golf courses.
33. Wear your ski jacket to the pub – Great way to do number 27.
34. Give skateboarding a go – Do this month before you have booked your ski holiday as you will need the time to heal.
35. Go on a Chalet Cookery Course – Learn the trick of the trade.
36. Think about buying a chalet in the Alps – Then realise you can only afford one 5 miles away from a ski resort you have never heard of and book a ski holiday instead.
37. Go Trampolining  – We are not sure why but all the winter Olympians do it.
38. Have a fondue party
39. Make Croissants – How hard can it be?
40. Design a snow park – Send us your designs we would love to see them, maybe we could build them next winter.
41. Plan a back-country ski tour – That you will never go on.


42. Watch repeats of Ski Sunday – Dust of the VHS player.
43. Practice your journey to the airport – You can never be too prepared.
44. Knit a hat – It is trendy to have a hat that looks like you made it.
45. Pack – See 43.
46. Play snowboard games – SSX is good apparently.
47. Apply for a ski job You can apply here.
48. Become a ski instructor – You can do courses at your nearest indoor or dry slope.
49. Become a cheese connoisseur  – Just because cheese is great.
50. Run a marathon in ski boots – If you do it I will sponsor you.
51. Make your own list – The chances are that it will be better than this one.


Guide: Spring Skiing in Meribel

Why is Spring Skiing in Meribel so great!

Sunshine, smiley faces, parties, funny goggle marks and more snow than you might expect. Just a few of the things we love about Spring skiing in the Three Valleys.

In fact, Méribel in the spring comes with more than just a few perks.

In this blog we’re taking a closer look at the pros of a late season session on the slopes that’ll have you searching for all the Spring Ski deals and stocking up on the Factor 50 before you can say ‘have I got any annual leave left?’

Spring skiing is all about Location, Location, Location

Méribel’s enviable position, at the centre of the largest lift-linked ski area in the world with over 600km of marked pistes and 200 ski lifts serving a 110 square mile area, is a great base for exploring the tail-end of a season. Méribel, like La Tania, is of course well connected via lft and piste to the third valley of Val Thorens.

With 99% of its ski area above 2000m, it’s Europe’s highest major resort and one of its most snowsure from the start of the season right through to May. It even comes with a snow guarantee…

JOIN US FOR SOME SPRING SKIING: FROM £600 PER PERSON 

The Snow…there’s more than you might expect.

With a winter’s worth of snow as a base, accumulations on Méribel’s upper slopes can regularly reach depths of 2 meters by March and April. We took a look at the spring snowfall records for the last five years and found that an average of almost 50cm fell during the last six weeks of the season, easily matching the snowfall recorded in December in those same seasons.

With the warmer temperatures and stronger sunshine though, snow quality can be more unpredictable, but fear not! Spring skiing just calls for a little pre-planning. We recommend taking to South facing runs such as Jerusalem in the morning and switching to the North facing ones, such as the Cote Brune, in the afternoons.

JOIN US FOR SOME SPRING SKIING: FROM £600 PER PERSON 

The Pace of Life

Skiing on a bluebird day in the spring takes on a quality different to that of the winter. It becomes less about the standard adrenaline-fuelled stuff and more about an awe-filled exploration of the mountains.

The longer, warmer days mean that you can take the time to ‘smell the flowers’ as it were. There’s a sense of new growth, a natural unfurling of the summer to come which brings with it the inevitable buzz and potential of a seasonal shift. And this is what those mountain-top bar terraces were made for…

A World Away from the Piste

If you do get the odd day where conditions are less than perfect, it’s handy to know that there are some great alternatives to the slopes.

There are some really good non-ski activities that include paragliding, Ice skating, water parks and Ice Karting on offer in Meribel and The Three Valleys. And oh, did we mention the lovely, sunshine-filled Apres?

There are a lot of parties

There’s always something going on in the Three Valleys but it’s March and April that see the focus lie heavily on parties, charity music events and top notch festivals. Firm favourites such as March’s Ronnie Loves Music Festival and the legendary Three Valleys Charity day in April are just two great examples that complement a whole host of closing parties and the inevitable ‘drink the bar dry’ nights that see the season drawn to a very merry close.

Spring time skiing in Meribel and the Three Valleys is basically about excitable early mornings on the slopes and leisurely lines back towards an especially awesome apres scene that starts in the afternoon and continues late, late into the night.

JOIN US FOR SOME SPRING SKIING: FROM £600 PER PERSON 


Getting on the Slopes in Meribel and La Tania with current covid restrictions!

What is it really like to go skiing in Meribel with the Covid Travel Requirements?

We went skiing last weekend to find out!

Flying, transfers and arriving in resort.

We travelled through Geneva, had to show a Covid Vaccine pass and complete a simple Swiss, Passenger Locator form. It is as an emailed PDF document with a QR code. It can be stored on your phone or printed, whichever you choose. These were all checked Gatwick (in our case).

The boarder at Geneva into France is soft and people are rarely stopped. As long as you are fully vaccinated or have a recovery pass then you don’t have to test to come into Geneva (as of 22 Jan). You will need a test within 24 hours to enter France. (Chambery, Lyon, Grenoble and Eurotunnel) and a sworn declaration here

Once at the chalet, Alpine Action will deliver lift passes to your chalet, there is no need for you to go to the lift pass office with your Covid passes, hassle free!

On the slopes in Meribel – 3 Vallys

There are no facilities at the lifts for checking Covid passes but there are random spot checks. You could be asked to show your Covid QR code (the NHS QR code is fully accepted on their handheld verification app which is used).

You will be asked to lift your snood or mask from your face while gaining entry to a lift or gondola.

Bars and restaurants all use the same app to verify your Covid QR code and most will ask for this as you enter through the door.

Meribel Covid skiing

Returning to the UK from Meribel

To return to the UK you will need to have booked a day 2 test (prices from £14.50 see here). You will get a reference number needed for the UK passenger locator form. This can only be filled in 48 hours before you come home. Tests are not required to enter the UK after 11 Feb.

Overall, the process was not very difficult, the atmosphere in the resort was buzzy, the conditions were excellent with blue skies and sun.

We don’t need to remind you this is some of the best skiing in the World! So what are you waiting for?

To book call us 01273 977677

MORE DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT TRAVEL ON OUR 
WEBSITE


La Tania: The complete resort guide.

You will find La Tania ski resort nestled in the trees on the lower slopes of the 3 Valleys ski area, just below the legendary alpine resort of Courchevel.

The village is much smaller than its neighbours of Val Thorens, Courchevel, and Meribel, but it is its size that gives it that familiarity and charm that keeps skiers returning to it every winter.

La Tania was developed into a ski resort in the 1990s. Its original purpose was to host the press and athletes during the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics. Which is why the centre is focused on large apartment buildings. Once the games had passed the village grew into a more traditional alpine village full of small chalets.

Today La Tania ski village is a busy place in the winter with a car-free centre with pistes that run into the village allowing you to ski close to your door. It has also built a reputation as a less expensive place for ski holidays while still having access to the 3 Valleys.

Season Opening dates – You can ski La Tania from the middle of December to the third week in April.

La Tania Ski Village

The resort centre is a snowy pedestrianised zone that catches the afternoon sun. The three main ski runs converge here. It is where you will find the bars, restaurants, and shops. There is also a free drag lift for beginners.

Other popular amenities and services you will find in La Tania are a Tourist office, bakery, deli, Tabac, min market, ATM/cash machine, and ski hire. For other services and a wider range of shops head up to Courchevel.

La Tania Ski Area

One of the big attractions of La Tania is the access to the Three Valleys. From the village, you can catch the gondola to the bottom of the Bouc Blanc red piste, it is from here you have plenty of options to access the rest of the ski area.

Catch the Dou des Lanches to drop down into Méribel or ski down a bit and get on the Bouc Blanc chair for direct access to Courchevel 1850. For the more adventurous you can tackle the amazing Jockeys run down to the new bubble in Courchevel Le Praz.

READ OUR FULL GUIDE TO SKIING LA TANIA AND THE 3 VALLEYS

Skiing or snowboarding back into La Tania is great fun and you have the choice of 3 pistes to choose from. There is the blue run called Folyeres that snakes through the forest. The Moretta Blanche is a red that is great fun, you can combine it with the higher up Lanches or Bouc blanc for one of the area’s epic descents. For the newer skier and children, there is the Plan Fontaine green slope that weaves into the resort from the top of the gondola.

Download a La Tania piste map

The other great thing about staying in La Tania is the proximity of the pistes to most of the accommodation. There are plenty of ski in ski out properties lining the runs and down in the centre. But if you aren’t staying in one of these you are unlikely to be any more than a 6-minute walk to the lifts or runs.

Snowmaking and Snow Condition in La Tania

Due to its unique location on the mountain snow is pretty much guaranteed on the slopes as the trees help to shade the snow keeping it fresh throughout the season. The lower slopes in La Tania have a season average coverage of around 85cm.

For added reassurance, all the ski runs in the La Tania area are covered by snow cannons which allows ski holidays to be booked throughout the season without the worry of not being able to ski into the resort.

GET AN UP TO DATE LA TANIA SNOW REPORT

Aprés Ski in La Tania

Aprés ski in La Tania is dominated by the Pub Le Ski Lodge. You will find this popular bar at the foot of the slopes into the resort. At lunchtime, it is the perfect spot for sunbathing and eating. Then off to the slopes, it is a great aprés spot, with happy hour (4 pm to 6 pm), drinks promos, and live music every weekday. There is also live music in the evenings. Opening times 10 am- 2 am.

The Chrome bar is a no-frills bar close to the slopes that is popular with locals. It has a range of beers and cocktails. There is live music occasionally throughout the week.

Eating Out in La Tania

The Three Valleys has a good reputation for eating out and despite its size, there are some nice spots to eat.

Up on the slopes try the Bouc Blanc. During the day the restaurant and terrace can be found drenched in sun at the top of the La Tania gondola. Look on any review site and this place gets five stars every time. It serves traditional alpine food at a better price than many of the other slope-side restaurants in Courchevel.

Down in the resort of La Tania, you can head back to Pub Le Ski Lodge where you can get a Full English in the morning or pick from one of its infamous burgers during the lunch break.

In the evening you should book a table at La Taiga. An intimate restaurant that you can find opposite the La Trokia lift. The food on offer is a mix of traditional Savoyard, local produce, and modern dishes. You could eat here many times and feel you have had a different style of food every time. Take a look at their menu.

Don’t forget you can access all the bars and restaurants in Courchevel and La Praz via the free bus service that runs until late at night.

Accommodation in La Tania

There is a wide range of accommodation in La Tania. You will find small self-catered apartments, hotels, and chalets.

We have four amazing cater chalets located in the trees of the resort.

Cote Coeur – A 14-bed chalet with a hot tub that is just a two-minute walk to the piste.

Chalet Attila – Sleeps 12, has a hot tub and is located next to the piste

Chalets Toubkal One & Two – A pair of individual chalets with a piste-side location.

La Tania Chalet

How to get to La Tania

All out La Tania catered ski and snowboard holidays include flights from Stansted, Glasgow, Leeds Bradford, and Newcastle. More information can be found here.

The best airports to travel to are Grenoble or Geneva due to transfer time, flight availability, and connectivity.

Driving is a great option and you can find ample free parking throughout the ski area.


Why the 3 Valleys is the ultimate Instagram ski destination

Instagram your 3 Valleys ski holiday

The 3 Valleys will make your holiday look good on Instagram and there is nowhere more Instagramable than the mountains!

From La Tania’s picture-perfect chalets hidden in the trees, traditional Savoie food to the trendy apres ski scene of Meribel. There are enough selfie spots to make your followers drool.

If you like your feed to look a bit more extreme than cozy chalet photos and chairlift poses then there is pleanty of slopes, off-piste terrain and extreme experiences to capture.

That is the intro… now for some more Instagram inspiration.

#LoveMeribel #LoveLaTania

3 Valleys Instagram

The towns of the Three Valleys on Instagram

Location is the key to a beautiful Insta feed and the towns in the 3 Valleys proved that perfect backdrop.

La Tania is an alpine dream. The sunny village is below the tree line and many of the traditional chalets are located in the spruce forest with branches heavy with snow to make the perfect winter wonderland.

Meribel has strict planning regulations, with guidance on height, materials and style. Which may sound dull but the result is a very aesthetic and traditional alpine town.

Then there is the town of Courchevel 1850, home to the mega-rich and some of the most stylish hotels in the Alps. You may not be able to afford to stay there but you can always pretend.

The 3 Valleys is a selfie hot spot

Here are some selfie facts: Snow makes you look cool (literally). Snowsports make you look cool. Goggles, hats, and sunnies make you look cool. Ski and snowboard clothing make you look cool. Being on a mountain/chairlift/skis makes you look cool. Being in a ski chalet/mountain restaurant/ski resort makes you look cool. In short a ski trip is cool.

Don’t believe us…

The 3 Valleys is so Instagram perfect it even provides selfie spots!

Instagram your 3 Valleys Chalet

All our chalets are Instagram compatible. Some are postcard perfect with rooms that ooze alpine style. While others have incredible views to post your morning wake up.
And don’t forget the mountain hot tub update!

Check out Chalet Virage on our website.

Food is also important to us as which is why we put feed ready food put in front of you during your stay. Also, don’t forget to capture the fondue for your friends when you eat out!

Instagram the slopes of the 3 Valleys

If you’re in the mountains in the winter you will be on the slopes. So get snappy and show that you’re out there doing one of the best sports in the most stunning location.

@val_thorens queria voltar logo! #ski #valthorens #orionoperadora

A post shared by Leonardo H. Barbosa (@leohbar) on

Instagramable 3 Valleys Activities

It isn’t all ski and snow there are loads of other things you can do in the 3 Valleys that are worth a post on your channel.

Ma reine des neiges. #happinesstherapy #vacancesauski

A post shared by Seb Fontenay (@seb_fontenay) on

Oh that snow…. #animalcrackers #snow #powpow #frenchalps #meribel

A post shared by Cassious (@crh79) on

If you want a Insta holiday that will impress your followers drop us an email or check out all our chalets.


Six Reasons To Work a Season in the 3 Valleys

Find out why so many pick the Three Valleys to work a season in. They say it is one of the best things you’ll ever do in your life. No probably about it!

If you are looking for the best winter season experience and a job to match then look no further that Meribel or La Tania in the 3 Valleys with us.

Here are our top 6 reasons why seasons in the 3 valleys are so good.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WORKING A WINTER IN THE THREE VALLEYS

1.Sheer Scale

“Méribel is part of the largest ski domain in the world, with more than 370 miles of managed pistes. We skied non-stop for four days and barely scratched the surface of what was available.” Jon Sopel

When you’re in Méribel, you’re slap bang in the middle of the biggest linked ski area in the world, and with a Three Valleys Ski Pass, no two days will ever be the same, even over the space of a full season.

With over 600Km of accessible pistes including 328 downhill skiing pistes, 166 ski lifts and more than 2300 snow cannons, there’s no doing the same run every day here! Think adventure, think mountain exploration, think getting off the beaten track, think world-class lift systems that mean less waiting and more skiing.

By the end of the season, you’ll definitely have scratched that surface. In fact, you’ll be seeing how quickly you can ski into every village in the Three Valleys, still manage some quality pit stops in each and be back in time for work. 

 Work a Season

2.Quality as well as Quantity

So we get it, The Three Valleys is a big place. But thanks to its natural domain, the fact that 85% of the ski area is above 1800m and the impressive number of snow canons throughout the valleys, snow is guaranteed all season.

And over 70 grooming machines ensure that conditions are kept tip-top. Early morning corduroy anybody?

 Work a Season

2.Powder Days

“One can never be bored by powder skiing because it is a special gift of the relationship between earth and sky. It only comes in sufficient amounts in particular places, at certain times on this earth; it lasts only a limited amount of time before sun or wind changes it. People devote their lives to it for the pleasure of being so purely played by gravity and snow.”– Dolores LaChapelle, Earth Wisdom, 1978

Ah, the elusive perfect powder day. If your skiing has been limited to a week here or there, truly epic powder days have probably been few and far between.

In Meribel, there is a world of fun to be had beyond the marked and bashed runs. Regular dumps of snow and extensive off-piste means your season will see you chalk up some of the most exhilarating powder days of your life.

And let’s face it, if you’re working in Meribel for five months,  you’re gonna be privy to a fair few of them.

3. The SnowParks

Work on those Profile Pictures…

Over the course of a season in Meribel and the Three Valleys, you’re going to get lots of opportunities to practice those bonks and pops in the parks.

Give your Park confidence a literal boost by trying out the awesome Jump’Air at Val Thorens. The giant air cushion is the perfect solution if you want to learn or improve your freestyle skiing or snowboard technique.

The early weeks will probably see you at Elements, with its multiple kickers, rails and rollers, eagerly watching replays of your first successes, and before you know it you’ll be ripping it up at the DC Area 43 Park with the big boys and girls. And that perfectly timed photo of you nailing that corkscrew 720 will be a profile pic for months!

4. Awesome Apres and Festival Fever

It’s nothing new to say Méribel has an amazing Apres scene. And sure, if you want to party every night, Meribel and its host of bars and clubs can provide.  

The institutions that are Follie Douce and The Rond Pont (AKA the Ronnie) never fail to disappoint and with five months in the resort you’re going to have some ‘memorable’ experiences!

But the Apres scene in Meribel is nicely balanced, with bars like Barometer offering a more chilled night out. Because even the most seasoned party animal will want a quieter night every now and then, especially pre-transfer day!

The Three Valleys also hosts a number of festivals and live music events featuring international artists throughout the season. And by ensuring you’re here all season, the stress of trying to book your holiday to coincide with at least one of them is no more! FOMO be gone!

 Work a Season

5. Apparently, in the Three Valleys, people do things other than throwing themselves down a hill with planks of wood strapped to their feet…

That’s right, your downtime after work doesn’t have to be limited to epic powder days, park time and shredding the slopes (I mean, that might get boring right? …right?)

There are actually all sorts of other activities to try including Husky sledging, helicopter rides, ice skating and snowmobiling. As well as the opportunity to go all ‘Top Gear’ and have a go at Ice Driving. That’s definitely one to remember!

5. Friends in High Places

When we asked our staff what they love about working a season, they all said, erm, being able to ski five days a week, for five long snowy months, on some of the best slopes in the world?

But on an equal footing, was the fact they’d all made friends for life. There’s a camaraderie between season workers that quickly creates a special bond.

Everyone working there shares the love for all things winter…the powder days, the clear crisp mornings, the stunning scenery, the awesome Apres scene. While no-one ever said working a season was an easy job, the friendships made on the slopes see you through any tough times!

Check out our recruitment page here, and we’ll look forward to seeing you on the slopes for an epic season…


Three Valleys Piste Guide

A guide to some of the best pistes in the Three Valleys – Run Recommendations

Three Valleys Piste Guide

There are 321 pistes in the 3 Valleys, so choosing which runs to do can be a bit of a headache without a guide.

To help we have compiled a quick guide of pistes that have been recommended and are well worth trying out next time you are skiing in Meribel, Val Thorens or Courchevel.

All these runs have been recommended by regular skiers to the area and tested by us.

Guide to Blue Pistes in The Three Valleys

Loze

Three Valleys Piste Guide

The Loze runs from the top of the chairlift of the same name. The lift starts and the run ends in the Altiport area of Meribel and starts where La Tania and Meribel meet.

The piste zigzags it way down the mountain and after several hairpins, you will find yourself in the trees before an exhilarating flatline to the bottom of the lift.

Keep your eyes peeled on the run for dragons, hammocks and activities. It definitely ranks among the more challenging blue runs in the area.

Folyeres

Three Valleys Piste Guide

You maybe forgiven for giving this run a miss. On paper, it looks like an essential run to use if you are staying in La Tania and need to get back to your accommodation.

However, we would say that this a must to do run as it is so much fun. It is a fast run through the trees ending in the middle of La Tania. It is also a great run if it is a whiteout.

If your there at the right time grab some lunch and catch some rays outside the Ski Lodge.

You should also double this up by skiing down the equally fun and often untouched Lanches red run that feeds into the top of the Folyeres

Gelinotte & Choucas

Three Valleys Piste Guide

The Gelinotte is wide and underused run that starts midway up the side of the Valley at the top of the Roc de Fer chair and comes directly back into the Chaudanne area of Meribel.

A great run for beginners who aren’t looking to stray too far from the centre of town. The downside to this piste is that the chair that serves the run is pretty slow, however, you do get a great view of the Stade de Slalom.

You can extend the run by catching a second lift, (Olympic) to the top of the mountain and enjoying the Choucas piste directly to the top of the Gelinotte.

Jerusalem

Three Valleys Piste Guide

This legendary run has recently been reclassified as a blue run but it is still truly epic. It runs from the top of the Meribel/Saint-Martin link down into Saint-Martin-de-Belleville.

From the long wide corners to the fast straight sections and the incredibly fun rollers that appear throughout, this is one of the best runs in the area.

No trip to the area is complete without a hoon down this run.

Creux

Three Valleys Piste Guide

This is on many people’s list of top runs in the 3 Valleys and for a very good reason. It is a thoroughly enjoyable run.

The start is quite challenging for a blue run and it is often quite crowded but there is plenty of space and it is easy to pick your line.

As you get towards the bottom of the first section the crowds seem to disappear and you can start to pick up more speed as you go under the Creux Noir char down into the valley that divides the Courchevel ski areas up.

There is a fun compression before you pass the Chanrossa lift station and once you have passed that you can put in big carving turns all the way down the Aguille du Fruit chair.


To listen to a podcast that features all this runs click on the box below or follow the link to iTunes.

Listen on iTunes


Guide to Red Pistes in The Three Valleys

Combe Saulire

Three Valleys Piste Guide

This runs down the face of the Saulire mountain underneath the Courchevel gondola and it is an incredible run. It is one of the fastest and widest runs in the 3 Valleys.

Due to its location, it is heavily used, especially in the afternoon as it is the easiest way back to Courchevel. For that reason, we recommend putting it at the beginning of your ski day while it is still groomed.

As you speed down this run take some time to enjoy the magnificent couloirs to your left and the stunning view of the valley and Mt Blanc in the distance.

Mont Vallon

If you’re staying in Meribel you must head up Mt Vallon. Firstly the vistas of the Vanoise National Park are incredible.

But primarily the runs down, Combe du Vallon and Campagnol are fun and challenging. Due to the location, they also make you feel like your actually skiing down a mountain.

Guide to Black Pistes in The Three Valleys

Muir

A secret little black run that glides past the Courchevel Altiport down into the Valley.

We like this run as very few people use it and there are some interesting features as you drop down past the tree line.

It is a challenge, but isn’t too long and makes a great place for skiers who are looking to build up their confidence on a black run that is not very busy.

M

This is a monster of a black run and runs from the top of the Vizelle bubble to the bottom. There are multiple routes to take down but try and stick to M.

The run is fairly steep all the way down and will work you hard, especially if it hasn’t been maintained regularly.

The challenge is rewarded by a big wide exit at the base of the run right by the cable car so you are ready to do it again.

Rocher Grises

Rocher Grises

To get to this black run you take the Creux Noir chair. At the top there are some stunning views and a choice of runs down, the red called Creux Noir will take you down to Meribel or you can take the Rocher Grises that splits into a red and black.

If you like MPV size moguls then this is the run for you. If you are an intermediate you will look down and feel overwhelmed, a little scared and ultimately pretty pleased with yourself.

Advanced skiers will relish the challenge that this steep run offers. Due to the location of the run, the snow is generally in good condition which allows you to really dig your edges in when needed.

It is worth mentioning that this is one of the areas guaranteed powder areas… which means that it is left ungroomed after fresh snow.

Jockeys

Another piste that is dismissed as a just a home run. Jockeys starts at the top of the Foret chair and winds its way back down to the station of Le Praz, home to the Olympic ski jump.

The run is left ungroomed after a snowfall and maintained for the rest of the time. During periods of low snowfall, the run can be a bit icey.

However, when the run is in top condition it is fast and a lot of fun.


If you want a base to explore the Three Valleys and these recommended runs our catered chalets in Meribel and La Tania are located perfectly.


Why the 3 Valleys lift pass is good value for money

Why the 3 Valleys lift pass is good value for money.

Next winter the 3 Valleys lift pass will cost €306 for an adult for 6 days and is outstanding value for money. There are are a reported 4.5 million skiers that visit The 3 Valleys each year giving the area plenty of funds to reinvest.

The constant investment ensures it remains great value for money and the best place to ski in the world.Find our how The 3 Valleys spend their money and give skiers the best possible experience.

FreeCurrencyRates.com

The 3 Valleys Ski Area

why the 3 valleys lift pass is good value for money

For your money you get 600km of piste to play on and to put that into perspective all of the ski areas in Canada could fit into the 3 Valleys. If you then break that down into Euros per kilometre you get 2.1 km for every Euro you spend on your lift pass. The next best value for money resort is neighbouring La Plagne where you get just 1.5 km per euro.

Despite the vast area, 85% of runs are above the magic 1800m with the highest peak of  3230m in Val Thorens. This impressive altitude guarantees snow and there is an average base of 80cm and annual snowfall of 155cm. All these stats are the reason that the 3 Valleys features in all snow-sure ski area lists.

Snow Making in the Three Valleys

why the 3 valleys lift pass is good value for money.

Being British we know the weather can be unpredictable and maybe this has rubbed off on our colleagues in charge of The 3 Valleys ski area and help them come to the decision to invest heavily in snowmaking. There are currently 2200 snow cannons that can make 5,280,000 cubic meters of snow per day across the area.

The cannons are located on a third of all the runs and there is a fleet of 70 piste bashers to attend to the snow. The resorts source water from a nearby dam for the snowmaking and the water bill is estimated to be around a €1m per valley.

Snow Parks in the Three Valleys

why the 3 valleys lift pass is good value for money.As the sport has changed and the attention is not all on Alpine skiers more people become interested in freestyle. The 3 Valleys has continued to keep up and has some of the best snow parks in Europe that have recently attracted the likes of James “Woodsy” Woods to play.

In Méribel, there is the DC Area park that features big kickers, a half pipe and is flanked by a boarder cross course. You can also find the slightly tamer Moon park in the same valley. Courchevel has a family park that is suitable for all and has an air bag to help you improve your tricks.

Val Thorens has invested in an expert and beginner slopestyle park that is popular with local riders and there is also FIS standard ski cross course.  And finally, there is the BK Park in Les Menuires full of rail and bumps for all abilities.

Three Valleys staff

why the 3 valleys lift pass is good value for money.

For many business one of the biggest outgoings is the wage bill and the 3 Valleys is no different.  The area employs 1200 people just to operate the lifts on top of this there are security staff, pisteurs, resort staff, bus drivers and maintenance teams. If they were on minimum wages the monthly bill just for lifties would be €1,740,000.

How much does The Three Valleys Invest

why the 3 valleys lift pass is good value for money.

We often speak to the management directly responsible for the infrastructure and they always talk in big numbers and they know that it is the continual reinvestment and development that keeps people coming back year after year.

Before last season started at least €50m was spent on improvements and new infrastructure. This included 3 new chairs in Val Thorens, a new chair and multiple piste improvements in Courchevel & Méribel, across the board snowpark improvements, indoor picnic areas, family entertainment, night skiing, wifi and selfie machines.

The Three Valleys is environmentally friendly

why the 3 valleys lift pass is good value for money.There is also investment in what you can’t see such as drainage, waste and reducing environmental impact. The resorts of The 3 Valleys come in the top 20 of environmentally friendly ski resorts in Europe and that is down to its investment in renewable energy to power the lifts.

All the resorts are committed to minimising the traffic and reliance of cars in resort which is combated by providing free bus services at an estimated cost of €5m per season.

What else can you get for the money

why the 3 valleys lift pass is good value for money.

For €306 euros you can get a weeks lift pass and go skiing in The 3 Valleys or you could get…

1 day at Alton Towers for a family of 4 plus £50 spending money.

9 hours indoor skiing.

8 hours Wakeboarding.

68 bottle of alcohol free red wine.

685 All Butter Croissants from Lidl

So there you have it The 3 Valleys lift pass is great value unless you like croissants more.

 

Oh and one last thing..

 

Is it cheaper to do 6 half day passes?

why the 3 valleys lift pass is good value for money.We get asked if there is a cheaper way to buy a 3 valleys lift passes, such as 6 half day passes. If you were to buy 6 half day passes you would, in fact, spend €42 more. A day pass can be bought for €62 and would get you 4.5 ski days for the same cost as a 6 day.


If you want more information an skiing in the 3 Valleys or want to find out about our catered ski chalets then please give us a call on 01273 466 535 or check out our website alpineaction.co.uk.


Why is breakfast important when skiing?

Find out why is breakfast important when you go skiing or snowboarding?

OK we admit it, we put our hands up – We are feeders. We can’t help it though, food is important, it fuels us, it can affect our mood and it also brings enormous pleasure. It is for these three reasons that we make sure we put on a seriously good breakfast.

When you head out for a day’s skiing you need to be ready for action, full of energy, in a great mood and you also need to feel like you are on holiday.

A hassle-free breakfast

Before we look into the scientific benefits of having breakfast before heading out to go skiing lets quickly consider one massive benefit that goes unnoticed. Getting ready to skiing, for some reason, is the most demanding part of a ski holiday.

Where are your gloves? Have you packed your ski pass? How many layers do you need to wear? So having breakfast ready for you is helpful, but not quite as helpful as not having to clear it up.

Leaving you to worry about what colour lenses to put in your goggles. If you have children you will need little imagination to realise how big a difference only having to eat breakfast makes.Bread, Croissant, Morning, Puff Paste

Benefits of a good breakfast are huge, especially when you are heading out for a long day of extreme sports. Food is fuel, and we need it to function. In the morning your body has slowed itself down because it hasn’t eaten for a while, so tucking into breakfast helps wake you up. It also helps you function and run better for the rest of the day.

The chances are that when you are in the Alps, you will eat a lot of bread, cheese and ham. All these will be available at breakfast time in our chalets, but we also realise that you need a balanced diet. We know that you won’t get all the energy you need from those three food items.

What we serve

That is why in the morning we offer you a selection of cereals, a cooked breakfast, lots of fruit juice and fruit. Not to mention the yogurt and endless tea and coffee.

We also understand that food can affect your mood that is why our breakfasts are full of quality produce, with enough to fill even the largest appetite. One of the worst things is heading to the slopes in a bit of a grump.

It spoils your day and the people who have to share a lift with you. So make sure you take full advantage of our selection at breakfast time. It is also proven that missing breakfast makes you grouchy for the rest of the day.

Eggs for breakfast

Another way that we can make you happy is by allowing you to be fussy. We believe that breakfast time is a very personal meal. Everyone likes it a different way, especially when it comes to eggs.

To make sure you get it how you like we let you tell us how you want them cooked. Boiled, fried, poached scrambled, we can do it however you like

What we are trying to say is that we are on hand to set you up for the fun day of skiing that you have come on holiday for. A days skiing starts around the table and that helps keep you going until lunch.


Start the day with us when you go skiing: Check out of chalets in the 3 Valleys.  


How to book a group ski holiday

A guide to booking a group ski holiday

Booking a ski holiday for a large group can be tricky to manage but it is worth it when you arrive and have a great time skiing and hanging out with everyone.

We know that you love skiing with your friends and family. We also know that arranging for them all to go on holiday at the same time can be a challenge which is why we have put this guide together.

Step 1 – How many in your group?

First get a rough idea of how many people want to go on your ski trip and ask for their contact details.

If you’re not planning a ski trip to Meribel or La Tania then you will need to decide where you want to go.

You should set up a communication channel for the whole group this could be an email list, Whatsapp chat or a Facebook group.

Step 2 – Set the date

Unless you are travelling on a specific date, like half term or Christmas, you will need to work out what is the optimal date for your group and an idea of what budget people have.

We recommend that you send out a poll to everyone who wants to come on your ski trip. You could use a polling site like doodle to find out the groups availability.

You may need to do a second poll but try to narrow it down to 2 potential dates.

Step 3 – Make an enquiry

Now you have a resort, date and a rough idea of how many people want to go on holiday it is to call the tour operator and find out what the options are.

You will get the best results if you are clear and know the group’s needs.

We know that organising the trip can be a challenge which is why we reward a group leader with a free lift pass!

The other perks are that you get to pick the best room, have the final say and know you won’t end up in a rubbish resort.

Step 4 – Picking your ski holiday

Picking your chalet is the next step and it is this point when many factors will come into play such as size, price and location.

At this stage, you might find yourself with a few options. In our experience as a group leader, you will find it easier if you decide on the best couple of options and pitch it to the group.

You should also be prepared to compromise. If you are a really big group you may struggle to discover a chalet that you will all fit into so you may need to look at ski properties next door to each other.

Step 5 – Confirming your ski holiday

Getting a deposit from everyone is a big challenge and the last big hurdle. You should make sure that everyone is ready to book and can send the deposit to you immediately.

As a rule, most chalet companies will hold a chalet for a week if you are booking early. This will give you time to decide and get the deposits collected.

If you are booking near or during the season you may only get a few days.

Payment is the next step. If you don’t want to get involved in collecting money (and we wouldn’t blame you) then we can help as will collect all the individual balance payments.

Then all that is left for you to do is enjoy your holiday in the company of your friends and family.


Give us a call to find out which chalets in Meribel and La Tania would suit your group. Phone the team on 01273 466535.