Nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the French Alps, Espace Killy and Three Valleys are two of the world's most renowned ski regions. Both are known for their vast ski areas, challenging slopes, and vibrant après-ski scenes. So which is the right choice for you?
For discerning skiers and snowboarders seeking an unforgettable luxury ski holiday, these French Alps jewels can be hard to choose between. Perhaps you prefer the dynamic, cosmopolitan vibe and challenging terrain that Espace Killy offers. Or maybe the chic atmosphere and larger, more varied ski area of the Three Valleys is more your scene.
Still unsure? Grab yourself a hot chocolate – or a cheeky vin chaud – settle in, and read on to find your match!
Espace Killy
Espace Killy, named after the legendary French skier Jean-Claude Killy, comprises the interconnected ski areas of Val d’Isère and Tignes. It offers a combined 300 kilometres of groomed slopes, catering to skiers of all levels, plus some of the Alps’ most challenging off-piste terrain for more adventurous riders. The domain is easily accessible by a network of modern lifts, including the Vanoise Express gondola, which whisks skiers from Tignes to Val d’Isère in just 18 minutes.
Val d’Isere has a reputation for being a hedonistic resort with a vibrant apres-ski scene and sophisticated nightlife. It is home to the original La Folie Douce, an on-piste bar known for its live music, Champagne Magnum gondolas, and table-stomping revellers. For a more sophisticated experience, visit Le Rond-Point, a chic bar known for its elegant cocktails and discerning clientele. The village of Val d’Isere has an authentic ski village vibe, dotted with chocolate-box chalets, refined restaurants, and ski boutiques.
Made up of a tapestry of four separate villages – Le Lac, Lavachet, Val Claret, and Les Brevières – Tignes offers a more modern, family-friendly atmosphere. The resort’s high altitude ensures exceptional snow conditions throughout the season. Though perhaps less famous than its neighbour’s nightlife scene, Tignes offers revellers everything from cosy après-ski bars with live music to sophisticated nightclubs with pulsating beats. Tignes Le Lac is the heart of the resort, with Michelin-starred restaurants and lively bars lining the shores of Lake Tignes.
Three Valleys
At double the size of Espace Killy, the Three Valleys is the largest ski area in the world, stretching over 600 kilometres of interconnected pistes. From the chic resort of Courchevel to the charming village of Meribel to family-friendly Val Thorens, there’s an ambience to suit every taste. This sprawling metropolis of snow offers an unparalleled variety of terrain, whether you’re exploring the iconic Bellecôte glacier or carving your way down one of its legendary black runs.
If you’re seeking the epitome of luxury, head to Courchevel 1850, an exclusive enclave of elegant chalets, designer boutiques, and Michelin-starred restaurants. When it comes to après-ski revelry, there is a smorgasbord of options, from piano bars to cabaret to sophisticated nightclubs.
Meribel is the place to be for traditional Savoyard chalets and villages with authentic alpine charm. It boasts on-piste après bars, an impressive restaurant scene, and stylish cocktail lounges.
At 2,300 metres above sea level, Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe. Situated in a valley overlooked by six glaciers, it offers fantastic snow conditions and one of the longest seasons in the Alps, along with a relaxed, family-friendly vibe.
