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Val d´Isere
A famous ski town in the Savoie region of the French Alps, Val d'Isère lies just a few miles to the Italian border.
The resort is most recognisable by its charming "chalet" architecture that defines one of the largest ski areas in the world. This area, along with nearby Tignes, forms part of the "Espace Killy" the self-titled "Most Beautiful Ski Area in the World."
Skiing in Val d'Isère has its roots in the 1930s when a drag lift was built on the slopes of the Solaise, to be followed later with a cable car. Close to a century in operation, it has then had the reputation of having a wide range of slopes that can challenge both beginner and seasoned skier down its powder slopes.
It is no wonder that the resort rising over 3,000 meters above sea level on the border of the Vanoise National Park welcomes international ski and snowboarding champions all year round.
Most notably, the resort will play host to the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships in 2009. Previously, its Face du Bellevarde was the scene of the men's downhill race as part of the 1992 Winter Olympics.
Local families and visitors alike take advantage of the transport available such as the high-volume gondola on the ski-slopes to ferry skiers and snowboarders around the area and to nearby Tignes, especially those with the Espace Killy pass to traverse both world-class resorts.
Leisure activities in the town await discovery. Visitors are invited to hop on the shuttle buses which run between the villages in the valley providing free transport throughout the town of Val d'Isere proper. In the village, après-ski (nightlife) is lively, with a good selection of bars and clubs, as well as more rustic options for fondue dinners by the fireplace.
