Experiences

The Best 5-Star Hotels in Val Thorens: 5 Reasons to Choose the Altapura

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Perched at an altitude of 2,300 meters, Val Thorens—Europe’s highest ski resort—thrives in the heart of the world’s largest interconnected ski area, Les 3 Vallées.  The Altapura was the first 5-star hotel to open there in 2011 and, fifteen years later, remains a must-visit destination. Here are 5 reasons to make it your winter home.

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For its "ski-in, ski-out" access

You can’t miss the Altapura Hotel, which appeals to skiers and design enthusiasts alike: slanted facades that rise like mountain peaks; offset volumes that mimic tectonic forces; and an elegant blend of brushed wood and dry stone, which sets off the forest of floor-to-ceiling windows facing Cime Caron. Best of all, this 5-star hotel in Val Thorens—part of the Beyond Places group—is firmly situated on the slopes and offers direct access to the Plein Sud chairlift. With heated ski lockers, an on-site ski shop, and advance reservations for equipment and lift tickets, you’re all set to hit the slopes!

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For an arty bedroom decor

A subtle tribute to Charlotte Perriand, a leading figure in modernist design and mountain architecture, the decor contributes to the ’70s vibe of the 88 rooms. Spacious (ranging from 28 to 50m²), the rooms are filled with designer furniture and feature a few playful pop touches: a bronze-toned cushion, a lime-green wall, or a maroon duvet. Nice touches include the closet for stowing suitcases, the ventilation in the wardrobe to dry clothes, and the CODAGE-branded amenities.

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‍The most beautiful spa in Val Thorens

Imagine 1,000m² dedicated to wellness in an enveloping setting. Indulge in a CODAGE treatment or a light therapy session in one of the six treatment rooms—including one designed for two. Enjoy the wellness journey, which includes two saunas—one of them XXL—a hammam, rejuvenating showers, and even an invigorating igloo. For fitness enthusiasts, head to the fitness area. But let’s be honest: it’s the heated indoor-outdoor pool—the only one of its kind in the resort—that, along with its jacuzzi, steals the show with its view of the mountain peaks.

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Three restaurants, each with a different atmosphere

Before hitting the slopes, we linger over the generous breakfast buffet: regional cold cuts, cheeses, and yogurts compete with healthy, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. For lunch, head to the south-facing terrace: this winter, barbecue skewers are back, as is the selection of cold and hot focaccias. It’s a little taste of what awaits you tonight at Casa Alta and its bistronomic Italian cuisine. While La Laiterie brings fondue lovers together around aged cheeses, Altayaki promises cuisine that fuses Asian, European, and Latin American flavors.

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‍A place that welcomes families

Rooms with a sleeper sofa, connecting rooms, junior suites, or family suites: groups of up to 4 people are welcome, and a crib can even be added. Children are treated like royalty: 3- to 8-year-olds have a blast at the Kids Corner, while a dedicated space awaits 9- to 12-year-olds. Open from 1:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the club even gives parents the chance to enjoy some romantic downtime during aperitif hour with a signature cocktail. And because wellness isn’t just for adults, the spa also offers a few treatments specially designed for kids.

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Written by Pascale Missoud

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