Val Thorens Prepares for Winter

14th October 2024

“Val Thorens is much more than a ski resort: it’s a unique universe, a journey that transforms every visit into an unforgettable adventure,” said a statement from the resort.

“Everything is different: the height, the atmosphere, the experiences and the lifestyle that makes the resort so unique.”

“There is something for everyone: every visitor, regardless of age, fitness, budget or interests, can find happiness and have unforgettable experiences.

“A ski-in/ski-out resort, everything is designed for the comfort of visitors.

“Every place is within reach, offering a smooth and stress-free stay.

“Val Thorens also boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere and world renowned sporting events.

“Travellers come from all over the world, creating an incredible cultural melting pot.

“In Val Thorens, the summit is not only geographical: it’s an invitation to live exceptional moments, timeless and close to the stars.”

Here are some hard facts:

• Last winter the resort had an average occupancy rate of 88.5% throughout the season – up 2.7% compared to the previous winter.
• There were 2,028,300 overnight stays – up 4.8% compared to the previous season.
• There were 1.9m skier days across the season in 2023/24.

Val Thorens, France. Image © PlanetSKI

Destination

Cime Caron is the highest point of the Val Thorens ski area at 3,200m and offers a 360 degree panorama of the surrounding peaks with views of Mont Blanc.

With ongoing investment in recent years, Cime Caron will feature a brand new building this year – called Caron  3 200 – which will open for the winter 2024/2025 season.

Caron 3 200 is a facility developed by SETAM (Val Thorens’ ski lift company) to offer new services on the summit and improve the visitor experience with places for relaxation, meeting and dining:

• A new restaurant with 130 seats
• A cosy wine bar
• A rooftop with a bar and panoramic terrace
• An 80m2 multi-service space which can serve as a projection room, exhibition hall or reception area for events and seminars

Additionally, SETAM implemented several measures:

• Use of sustainable raw materials: steel, wood, glass and stainless steel.
• Use of renewable energies (thermo-solar, solar panels,  recovery of residual heat from the Orelle-Caron cable car).
• Innovative water resource management using microsteppe technology.
• Selection of local and national suppliers.
• Sourcing and products made in France.

Val Thorens, France. Image © PlanetSKI

1982 – This final building completes the various phases of development on Cime Caron.

The launch of the Caron cable car, the world’s largest cable car at the time .

2021 – Construction of two gondolas, a €40 million investment to connect Orelle with Val Thorens and create a new route from the neighboring Maurienne Valley.

They allow access to Cime Caron in less than 20 minutes.

2023 – Construction of a glass pedestrian tunnel from the new Orelle-Caron lift to the Val Thorens cable car so that visitors arriving with baggage can cross without getting their feet wet.

The tunnel also features a viewing area for visitors to take in the beautiful mountain scenery.

2024 – The opening of the new multi-service reception building: Caron 3200.

Val Thorens, France. Image © PlanetSKI

New for 2024/25

Replacement of the 2 Lacs chairlift with a new gondola

The 2 Lacs chairlift will be replaced by a fast, comfortable, and modern 10-seat gondola.

This new lift will go higher – to the starting point of the La BEE zip line and Moutière chairlift arrival area, offering more skiing for beginners.

The departure area will also have a designed entrance for children to help them board.

• Departure altitude: 2,193m
• Speed: 7m/second
• Capacity: 3,500 people per hour
• Arrival altitude: 2,507m
• Elevation gain: 314m
• Capacity: 61 cabins  with 10 seats

It opens on 23rd November 2024.

New ski touring trails in Val Thorens

Salomon and Val Thorens are partnering to develop ski touring and make the activity more accessible to everyone.

Two new ski touring trails are opening this season and will connect two areas:

Petite Sud and Grande Sud.

• Petite Sud

Length: 1.8 kms

Starting altitude: 2,230m

Arrival altitude: 2,395m

Elevation gain: 65m

• Grande Sud

Length: 2.03 kms

Starting altitude: 2,395m

Arrival altitude: 2,738m

Elevation gain: 343m

Image © PlanetSKI

Elite Sporting Events in Val Thorens

A new sports program brings together three world-renowned events :

Tthe Ice Cross World Championships, the first stage of the Ski Cross World Cup and a stage of the Freeride World Tour.

This reinforces Val Thorens’ position as a dynamic centre for winter sports excellence.

Ice Cross, extreme skaters meet in Val Thorens December 5-7, 2024

Val Thorens, in partnership with ASTX (All Terrain Skate Cross) and the French Ice Sports Federation, is organizing a leg of the Ice Cross World Championships fromDecember 5-7, 2024.

Staged in the heart of the resort, this most spectacular speed skating competition will see participants launch in groups of four on an ice track dotted with obstacles – all at night – which adds to the thrill and excitement.

PlanetSKI reporter, Simon Wilson, will be at the event so kook out for his reports.

Ski Cross World Cup, December 12-13, 2024

For the twelfth consecutive year, Val Thorens is hosting a stage of the Ski Cross World Cup, a must-see event on the international ski circuit.

Skiers will compete 4×4 on December 12 & 13, 2024, along a course composed of bumps, banked turns and jumps designed by Olympic champion and local skier, Jean-Frédéric Chapuis.

Freeride World Tour, a new peak for Freeride From 27th January to 1st February 2025.

The Freeride World Tour returns to France after 8 years and sets up in Val Thorens where a stage will be hosted.

Thanks to its prime location at 2,300m, Val Thorens and its Cime Caron offer an exceptional playground for competitors, combining technical challenges and breathtaking views.

This French stage is also the only one accessible by ski lift via the Caron cable car.

We have reported on the new event earlier on PlanetSKI:

• Freeride World Tour heads to Val Thorens

Freeride World Tour. Image c/o PlanetSKI

New Ski Resort Features

Altapura

Yaki Alta, an inspired cuisine Opening this season is Altapura’s new restaurant – called Yaki Alta – where Asian and European flavors meet in bold fusion cuisine.

The restaurant promises a limitless culinary journey where each dish is an exploration of innovative tastes and diverse cultural influences.

L’Oxalys

Complete renovation of Montagnettes Group apartments.

Following the renovation of the relaxation area and spa last season, a comprehensive remodelling of all 36 apartments at the 4-star L’Oxalys residence was carried out during the off-season costing €3.5 million.

This reflects the Montagnettes Group’s commitment to offering unparalleled comfort and quality to its guests from around the world.

The residence will re-open on November 29.

Marielle

Hotel Marielle will launch its vinyl bar every day from 6pm to 8pm in the bar area.

The concept: a DJ will play only vinyl records chosen by customers themselves.

Over 1,000 records will be available, guaranteeing old-school music ambiance.

Oxygène Ski School launches ‘Ski Transfer’

A way to hit the slopes without even wearing skis.

Ever fancied heading off into the deeper snow but struggled to get to grips with powder sking? Or maybe you or a friend can’t ski at all?

Oxygène, one of the five ski schools in Val Thorens, is launching ‘ski transfer’, an innovative, fun and comfortable way to experience the slopes without you actually having to ski yourself!

You sit in a chair – on skis – which is controlled by an Oxygène ski instructor who will take you out onto the slopes, so you can admire the snowy landscapes, meet friends or simply explore an area of the mountains you’ve always wanted to check out.

Think of it as the ultimate Tuk Tuk ride.

Val Thorens, France. Image © PlanetSKI.

Behind the scenes of a connected resort

Val Thorens leverages the skills and passion of its teams to develop technology that enhances the safety, comfort, and well-being of guests.

The innovations are abundant: Snowsat mapping system, GPS beacons to locate rescuers, drones for ski area surveillance, making Val Thorens a true pioneer in the use of technology to run the resort.

A drone, for Ski Area Sur veillance, a first in Europe.

Fitted with two cameras, one that uses thermal imaging, the other with a 180X zoom lens, the drone allows rapid detection of avalanches or other search zones where the situation has to be assessed in order to deploy the right operational or rescue strategy.

Olivier Gardet with his drone in the Belleville Valley – photo T Loubere Val Thorens tourist office

Snowsat, for Intelligent Grooming.

A technology at the heart of sustainable, ethical tourism, Snowsat is fitted to all snow groomers.

The software includes embedded GPS connected to a map of the ski area to then provide realtime information on the depth of snow cover on the slopes.

This technology is also linked up to the snow-making canons which then operate automatically and intelligently to produce snow in a targeted manner.

GPS Beacons, for Increased Efficiency.

Responsiveness and performance are the watchwords behind this innovation.

In Val Tho’, every member of the ski patrol is equipped with a GPS beacon and radio, providing an efficient means of locating them and sending the nearest patroller to the zone where assistance is required.

Ski Flux, the Waze of the Slopes.

Want up-to-date information about skier numbers on the slopes?

This is possible in Val Thorens thanks to the new Ski Flux system which keeps skiers informed in real time.

Unique in France, this system measures the flow of skiers via sensors located on the slopes and allows users to choose their itinerary accordingly.

Data Montagne, an Optimized Water Management.

Data Montagne is a software solution that enables optimised water resource management in the mountains.

It addresses the challenge of balancing different uses – human consumption and snow requirements.

Val Thorens, France. Image © PlanetSKI

Val Thorens for Every Budget

Known for welcoming holiday makers of all ages and nationalities, Val Thorens tries to cater for every budget, too.

The mountains are accessible to everyone, provided you know the right tips and tricks to save cash and make your money go further.

Skiing in April

Skiing in winter is great, but in spring, Val Thorens offers delightful surprises.

The days are longer, the temperatures are milder, and the snow is still excellent.

Prices are attractive, and the resort offers attractive promotional packages, making the stay more affordable.

These special offers include discounts on ski passes, accommodation, and other perks, allowing you to fully enjoy the last snow of the season without breaking the bank.

Unforgettable 100% Free Experiences with Club Val Tho’

Lovers of the resort have their own club to enjoy exclusive complimentary experiences during their stay.

The mission of Club Val Tho’ is to make vacations unforgettable by offering over 2,000 free experiences throughout the season.

Whether it’s riding a snow groomer at dusk, dining in a gourmet restaurant or participating in torchlight descents with the instructors, club members can access these unique experiences.

To have a chance to win, simply sign up and indicate the dates of your stay to be included in the draws.

And for those who don’t win, many other free activities are offered during school holidays for all club members such as free cheese raclette or hunting for ‘hearts’ on Valentine’s Day.

Free Meals on a 4-Star Hotel Terrace

No more eating sandwiches in the snow on the slopes to save money.

Thoughout the winter, Hotel Marielle**** will offer its terrace and large BBQ for “Bring Your Sausage” events.

Everyone can come and cook on the terrace with their own products, enjoying the hotel’s view and atmosphere.

Hotel Marielle even provides free bread, sauces, and and cutlery, along with checkered tablecloths, music and a pétanque field.

Val Thorens, France. Image © PlanetSKI

VT – more than just skiing.

Journey through the Cosmojet universe on the longest sledding run in France, a 6 km track starting from the Péclet glacier.

Activities abound in Val Thorens: snow groomer rides, zipwires, sledding, and more.

There’s a variety of options to enjoy the pleasures of the snow, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience whether you’re a skier or not:

Soar in tandem on La Bee Zip Line, flying over the slopes for 1,800 meters and landing in the heart of the resort.

Le Board, a multi-leisure center for the whole family

The “Le Board” sports and multi-leisure center is a valuable asset to the resort, enhancing the skiing experience.

Located in the heart of the village, this 17,000 m² space includes leisure, and wellness areas, including pools, a convention center with numerous meeting rooms, a co-working space, and an exceptional rooftop.

Le Board, Val Thorens. Image © PlanetSKI

The panoramic terrace can host up to 2,400 people, making it ideal for a variety of ambitious and varied projects such as fun events, sports and concerts.

Inside, several modular spaces are available including an auditorium (437 seats), an arena (3,000 people), lounge area (166 m²), and a dedicated event space (281 m²).

Le Board, Val Thorens. Image © PlanetSKI

Nature escape at Lac du Lou

At Lac du Lou, a truly refreshing wilderness adventure awaits.

Not far from the resort, this lovely Val Tho’ destination offers a breath of fresh air and an escape in the midst of the world’s largest ski area.

Nestled at the edge of the Vanoise National Park, Lac du Lou is frozen over in the winer and sits within a vast, wild plain between the peaks of Cime Caron and Pointe de la Masse.

This majestic location is a playground for divers, hikers and nature lovers who cherish wide-open spaces.

This natural gem must be earned.

Reaching Lac du Lou is an adventure in itself as it’s inaccessible by car or ski lifts.

Visitors can get there by snowshoeing, ski touring or via off-piste routes.

Other snowshoe hikes are also available around the resort.

Spend a unique evening in an Igloo

Far from traditional restaurants, this experience offers the chance to taste regional specialties in a setting crafted with passion by professionals.

It’s a unique opportunity to combine gastronomy in the unusual setting of the Igloo Village which is made totally from ice.

And why not extend the experience by spending the night in a ice bedroom and enjoy a wake-up call in nature with breathtaking views of the resort?

Val Thorens has more than a dozen spas which are open to everyone, hotel guests or not, offering a real invitation to recharge, unwind, and be pampered.

Each spa is unique and has its own characteristics so that everyone can choose a place that suits perfectly:

Spa by Codage at Altapura

1,000 m² dedicated to well-being and the only indoor/outdoor pool in the resort.

Koh-I-Nor Is known for its two pools and outdoor sauna with breathtaking views of the Val Thorens peaks.

New this winter, the Koh-I-Nor hotel is partnering with the spa brand Gemology, which combines the benefits of precious stones with skincare, offering innovative and highly effective treatments and massages.

Spa Nuxe at Marielle

An exceptional setting with diverse treatments offered.

Residencece Montagne Plein Sud

The spa is getting a makeover.

In its ongoing effort to provide guests with a relaxing and refined experience, Village Montana has redesigned the space with new decor and furnishings.

Natural materials, clean lines, and a soft color palette create an atmosphere conducive to complete relaxation.

The pool is equipped with a light therapy system with treatments enhanced to feature a selection of new services inspired by the latest trends in wellness.

Spa by l’Occitane at Pashmina

Offers a brunch and spa package, along with its Après-ski massage, developed using techniques from the physiotherapy staff of the French ski team.

This full-body massage is specifically designed to enhance performance through rapid muscle recovery, targeting the deep muscles that are strained during skiing.

Oxalys & Hameau du Kashmir Offer Lunch & Spa packages that allow you to enjoy a relaxing treatment in their wellness areas, followed by a meal (starter/main course or main course/dessert).

Events not to be missed

N O V E M B E R

La Grande Première – It’s the opening weekend of the winter season in Val Thorens.

An unmissable event for winter sports enthusiasts.

It offers a variety of activities, introductory sessions to different disciplines, and a test village to discover the latest products from over 50 brands.

D E C E M B E R

Val Thorens is hosting a World Cup event of the Ice Cross World Championships for the first time.

A speed skating race will take place at night in the heart of the resort.

Ski Cross World Cup – For the 12th consecutive year, Val Thorens is hosting a leg of the Ski Cross World Cup, a key event in the international ski circuit.

J A N U A R Y   – F E B R U A R Y

The Freeride World Tour returns to France after 8 years and sets up in Val Thorens where a stage will be hosted.

Thanks to its prime location at 2,300m, Val Thorens and its iconic Cime Caron offer an exceptional playground for competitors, combining technical challenges and breathtaking views.

This unique French stage is also the only one accessible by ski lift via the Caron cable car.

Alpine Skiing Masters World Championship

M A R C H

The FIS World Criterium Masters has selected Val Thorens as the host resort this season.

This world championship is reserved for women and men over 30 years old, competing in three disciplines: Super-G, Slalom, and Giant Slalom.

More than 500 competitors are expected.

The opening ceremony will take place on Monday March 17 in the town center, with the championship running from March 17 to 21, followed by a FIS Giant Slalom race on March 22.

Festival’Tho, in its 15 years of existence, Festival’Tho, an electronic music festival, has become an unmissable winter event for all lovers of parties, great emotions, and unforgettable moments.

A P R I L

Cosmic Mountain Festival – they dreamed it, then they made it happen.

The team at Val Thorens, in partnership with the Delta Music Festival, are proud to present the first edition of the “Cosmic Mountain Festival”, a celebration of music.

On the agenda: 3 days of partying and music at the must-see spots in the resort.

M A Y

La Grande Dernière – One last weekend of celebration before the end of the season.

Val Thorens invites its visitors to strap on their skis for the final descent of the winter season.

PlanetSKI in Val Thorens, France. Image © PlanetSKI.

Tomorrow’s Projects – Plateau du Cairn

Always looking to the future, Val Thorens is constantly rethinking and evolving.

Since the end of the last winter season, the resort has embarked on a number of renovation and refurbishment projects, with the aim of continually improving the visitor experience and pursuing a long-term ecological policy.

The Cairn, eco-neighbourhood.

With a view to innovation and development, Val Thorens is planning to create an eco-neighbourhood on a brownfield site: the Plateau du Cairn.

The aims of the project are to bolster winter tourism and develop summer activities, as well as increasing the use of renewable energy and enabling the construction of new housing for permanent and seasonal staff.

Val Thorens. Image © PlanetSKI