Christmas in Val D’Isere
Apart from the obvious, a white Christmas, what makes one of the world’s premier ski resorts a fantastic festive location.
I’ve been a BASS Ski Coach in Val D’Isere for 23 years, but my family now live in Norway. So, when I asked the question, ‘Where do we want to spend Christmas?’ the answer was unanimously Val D’Isere. We already had many wonderful memories of the festive season from when we lived in Val D’Isere, but now we would be visiting for the week.
1. Snow Sure Destination
Val d’Isere village is at 1850M and the skiing in the area goes up to 3456M and has 2 glaciers in La Fornet and Tignes. This all means that the area has always enjoyed good conditions early in the winter. We made a point of visiting the glaciers on the best weather days. Even, managing an al fresco lunch at the Panoramic restaurant at the top of the funiculaire in Tignes. I recommend taking the Launches and Vanoise chairlifts up to the glacier cable car as the scenery is stunning. You can see most of the Alps from the top station and then ski nonstop from 3456M down to Val Claret at 2100M.
2. Accommodation
We opted to stay in a 2-bedroom apartment in the Manchet area of Val Village, because it was just outside of town but was ski in ski out. Apartments in France can be on the snug side with sofa beds as the norm, so we were careful to choose something with plenty of space and a proper bed for everyone. Hotels this time of year can be pricey but have all the luxury and festive atmosphere. A third option is a chalet and Val D’isere has a great selection with many excellent options in La Fornet and La Dialle.
3. Christmas dinner
As we were in an apartment and the ski conditions were great, we didn’t want to be spending all day preparing a traditional Xmas dinner, but wanted something special. We booked ourselves in for a late lunch sitting at the La Cucùcina - La Folie Douce
We had a window table on the balcony, so the view as well as the food was amazing. We were well looked after during the meal and had stunning intermissions of entertainment. We topped it off with some après ski dancing outside at the Folie and a ski down to have drinks with our friends at the Rosie Blanch. The only down side was the food was on the sparse side for our 2 teenage boys who filled up later on pizza, delivered even on Christmas day.
3. Entertainment & Activities
As a family we are not for sitting around, we love our activities. The days were filled up with our ski adventures, but we managed to squeeze in a dog sled ride for my son’s birthday.
In the evenings we were spoiled with the Val D’Isere street carnival, a torchlight descent down La Face and a spectacular fireworks display. For a night to remember, on occasion, some of the mountain top restaurants open at night for an unforgettable dining experience. We had dinner at the L’Etincelle which felt special, but my lot loved just as much the Garage Pub in town for their gastro burgers and friendly atmosphere.
4. Ski School
BASS run ski lessons and guiding all through the festive season. With fun group lessons on Christmas day or exclusive private lessons, Christmas can be a snowy, fun-filled experience.
All in All
We had a great week with lots of fantastic memories. The snow was almost perfect, the weather was good, the atmosphere was very festive and we will defiantly be doing in again!
5 Quick Tips To Leave you with
1. Avoid transfers on a Saturday, if you can or set off in plenty of time.
2. Book a chalet with a company like YSE and they will serve you a traditional Christmas diner as part of your package. Simply Val D’Isere can help you find others.
3. Book meals and activities before you arrive as all the best places fill up.
4. Book your ski lessons with British Alpine well in advance as the Christmas week will be full before the week starts.
5. Download the Val D’Isere App with a live bus feed and all the up to date lift and slope opening information.
