Experiences

Top Picks in Val Thorens

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Voted the world's best ski resort ten times, Europe's highest resort promises six months of skiing and an atmosphere sure to appeal to families.

And to really convince you, here are 4 spots—some of the best in Val Thorens.

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Which hotel should you stay at?The 5-star Altapura

This 5-star hotel in Val Thorens, recognizable by its unique architecture inspired by Charlotte Perriand, immerses its guests in a world that is as surprising as it is welcoming, with its 200 vintage skis hanging on the walls and its 88 rooms and suites featuring ’70s-inspired decor.

And since Kid’s Corner looks after children until 8:00 p.m., take advantage of this after a day on the slopes to visit the 1,000 m² spa: a few laps in the indoor-outdoor pool, a visit to the steam room or sauna, and—why not?—a Codage treatment for two.

Three restaurants to enjoy a variety of flavors: the fondues at La Laiterie, the bistronomic and transalpine cuisine at Casa Alta, and—for a taste of faraway places—Altayaki, with its fusion creations that bridge the gap between Latin America, Europe, and Asia. Still have some energy left? Head to the bar for Live After Ski, which promises a great atmosphere twice a week!

Altapura - 88 units - Rue du Bouchet, Val Thorens

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The restaurant to try: La Maison

Because even when you opt for half-board, it’s nice to sample other spots in your favorite resort. Head over to La Maison, the restaurant run by Fabien Barreau and Romain Bastide. On the menu? Carefully selected Aubrac beef, poultry from the Cantal region, and AOP Reblochon. The menu, created in collaboration with two-Michelin-starred chef Cyril Attrazic, is wonderfully generous: from Florentine eggs with truffles to smoked trout, from confit lamb shoulder to burratina pizza—not to mention this vegan stir-fry—it’s hard to resist. Try it for lunch on the huge terrace facing the slopes, or in the evening amid the restaurant’s livelier atmosphere—preferably near the fireplace.

La Maison - Caron Gallery, Les Belleville

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The Must-Visit Store: Skishop By Goitschel

What do you expect from a mountain hotel? That it’s right on the slopes! The Altapura is no exception—it even provides direct access to the Plein Sud chairlift. Located right by the front desk, the ski shop is part of the DNA of the famous Goitschel family: in addition to the prestigious brands carried (the latest gear from Salomon, Lacroix, and Volant, as well as must-have sportswear from Fusalp and Bogner), the shop handles advance reservations for the whole family in coordination with the hotel’s concierge service and delivers the gear as soon as you arrive.

The real bonus? The warm welcome and direct access to lockers with shoe dryers when you return from the slopes.

Skishop By Goitschel - Altapura Hotel, reception level

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The Incredible Site: Caron 3200

The Caron peak, which overlooks Val Thorens, rises to an altitude of 3,200 meters. And here’s the good news: it’s accessible to both skilled skiers and hikers in just 30 minutes! It’s the perfect opportunity to settle in on the highest terrace in the 3 Vallées for a coffee or a cocktail on this rooftop with its spectacular view. New this winter: a virtual reality experience lets you climb Mount Everest all the way to the summit. The site also features a monumental portrait of Thomas Pesquet by Tom Brikx, an artist known for his large-scale creations made from LEGO® bricks. Installed at this altitude, the piece is now the highest street art installation in Europe.

Caron 3200 - Cairn and Caron Gondola Rides, followed by the Cime Caron Cable Car

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Written by Pascale Missoud

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