Where is Val Thorens?
Val Thorens is located in the French Alps, within the Savoie region. It is part of the Three Valleys ski area, the largest interconnected ski domain in the world. At 2,300 meters, it is the highest ski resort in Europe, ensuring reliable snow coverage throughout the season.
Where to Stay in Val Thorens
Budget-friendly accommodation options include self-catering apartments, hostels, and shared chalets. Booking in advance can help secure lower prices, and staying just outside the main resort area may offer additional savings.
One great option for affordable accommodation is UCPA Val Thorens, which can be arranged with Action Outdoors.
UCPA (Union Nationale des Centres Sportifs de Plein Air) is a French non-profit organisation that offers affordable all-inclusive ski packages, which typically include accommodation, meals, ski passes, equipment rental and even lessons or guidance.
The rooms at UCPA Val Thorens are simple yet functional and designed for budget-conscious travellers. The focus is on affordability and a social atmosphere rather than luxury, making it a great option for those who want to maximise time on the slopes without overspending on accommodation. UCPA offer twin rooms with ensuite bathrooms or 4-person rooms with shared bathrooms, perfect for groups of friends or families. They also have multi-share rooms for solo travellers or those on a tighter budget. UCPA Val Thorens is close to the slopes, with ski-in ski-out access, saving you the time and hassle of making your way to the slopes.
Val Thorens Costs
The cost of skiing in Val Thorens varies depending on factors such as accommodation, lift passes, and food. All-inclusive ski packages with Action Outdoors staying at UCPA Val Thorens start from just £462 per person, making it an excellent, affordable choice. Ski rental, lift passes and instruction/lessons are included in your all-inclusive package at UCPA.
Where to Eat in Val Thorens
Dining in Val Thorens doesn’t have to be expensive. Many restaurants offer budget-friendly meals, and self-catering is a great way to save on food costs. Supermarkets and bakeries provide affordable groceries, and some local spots serve hearty meals at reasonable prices.
UCPA packages include three buffet meals per day. You can return to the center for lunch or, if you prefer, prepare a packed lunch at breakfast to enjoy on the mountain. Either option helps you avoid expensive piste-side restaurants and save a lot of money. We found there to be a good variety of food available at every meal, including options for vegans.
Getting to Val Thorens
The closest airports to Val Thorens are Geneva – 150 km away and Grenoble – 144 km away. Geneva is usually the preferred option as it offers more flight choices and frequent resort transfers. From these airports, you can take a bus, rent a car, book a shared transfer or book a private transfer.
Action Outdoors can organise transfers from Geneva, Grenoble, or Lyon via their partner Ben’s Bus for UCPA guests. Return shared transfers start from £80pp and mainly run on Saturdays. Another great option for transfers is Alps2Alps. These are more expensive but allow you to book any date and time. If you prefer rail travel, the nearest train station is Moutiers, about 37 kilometres away, with shuttle services connecting to the resort.
Getting around Val Thorens
Val Thorens is a compact, pedestrian-friendly resort, making it easy to get around without the need for a car. Whether you’re heading to the slopes, restaurants, or après bars, you’ll find most places within walking distance. Here are the best ways to navigate the resort:
Walking – The entire village is ski-in, ski-out, so you can walk or ski straight to most accommodations and amenities. With UCPA’s ski-in location, you can glide straight to the lifts.
Free Shuttle Bus – Val Thorens runs a free shuttle bus that operates throughout the resort, making it easy to reach different areas. Buses run at regular intervals, stopping at key points, including hotels, ski lifts, and popular après spots. The shuttle bus runs from just outside UCPA to the Val Thorens village.
Have more questions about skiing in Val Thorens?
Read the full article by Wanderlust Welsh here or check out our available holidays in Val Thorens here!