Val-d'IsereFrance

The commune is in the department of Savoie, on the border between France and Italy. It is a global mecca for skiing which hosted Olympic events in 1992 and international skiing competitions in 2009.

At an altitude of 1,850 metres, Val d'Isère is clearly a perfect location for winter sports. The resort has just under 200 miles of pistes for Alpine skiing and snowboarding, as well as 12 miles for cross-country skiing. It has also seen the emergence of such great champions as Jean-Claude Killy and the Goitschel sisters.

Lovers of winter sports will be spoilt for choice by the facilities (state-of-the-art ski lifts, pistes for all abilities, special lessons for beginners, etc.). The resort also has a snowpark, which is open from mid-December to April (depending on snow conditions), where the braver visitors can show off their freestyle moves in spectacular surroundings.

If you love to relax and take it easy as well as ski, Val-d'Isère has everything you need. Head for the village for a spot of shopping and warm up in a cafe or around a well-deserved raclette. Motorsport lovers can enjoy ice driving on a 1,000-metre, 16-turn circuit, THRILLS GUARANTEED!

Val-d'Isère is renowned for its ski resort, but it's also the perfect destination for sporting holidays in the summer. Situated in the Vanoise National Park, the commune is a good starting point for hiking. A number of routes and other paths are available for you to discover the treasures the Alps can offer in the summer months. In addition, there is a range of lodges and accommodation where you can stay if you decide to set off for several days.

The commune also has a water sports centre, which is open all year round. The centre has a swimming pool and a range of sports facilities, including a squash court, a climbing wall, a volleyball and basketball court and a golf simulator, to name just a few. Those who like to spoil themselves can relax in the spa, which includes a sauna, a jacuzzi and a Turkish bath, as well as treatment rooms where you can be pampered or have a professional massage.

Fancy hurtling down the pistes or exploring the beauty of the Alps? Then Val-d'Isère is the perfect destination for a family break in an idyllic setting.