In complete serenity in Les 3 Vallées

In complete serenity in Les 3 Vallées

Our advice to help you prepare for, and make the most of your winter holiday in Les 3 Vallées

OUR ADVICE BEFORE YOUR STAY IN LES 3 VALLÉES

Our advice before your stay in Les 3 Vallées

Being the world’s largest ski area, the possibilities are infinite. The immensity of the ski area offers a huge range of options, which is what makes it so exciting. And it's up to you to create a holiday that suits and inspires you. It’s also up to you to choose your base camp, your accommodation, and the way you want to enjoy the slopes, the day’s itinerary and whether you want to go with a mountain professional. It's up to you to fill your winter days in the best possible way...

And we are here to help you.

Rest assured: Les 3 Vallées ski area is immense without being too complex. The best way to make the most of the whole experience is to get organised and to take note of a few important tips.

So, to make sure you don't miss out on anything and make the most of it all... Follow our guide!

A mountain holiday requires a little planning beforehand. However, once the decisions have been made, a few clicks are all it takes to deal with the logistics!

Méribel 3 Valleys resort
Méribel in the snow: Alpine enchantment

TIP #1: WHAT TYPE OF ACCOMMODATION, IN WHICH RESORT ?

Answer these two questions and you will be able to target and find the base camp that best corresponds to your needs and expectations! If the type of accommodation is more important to you than the location, then search for that first, or conversely the location if you already have a favourite resort in mind!

Accommodation: small hotels, large chalets, cosy apartments, or residences... There’s something for everyone, for all budgets and for all family formats... this page has all you need to choose your perfect holiday hideout.

Resorts: a small discreet village, or a big mountain resort... this page tells you all about the different resorts, their history, style and individual charm, and everything that makes up the beautiful mosaic of Les 3 Vallées.

Book your stay
Book your stay

Les 3 Vallées Travel is: a team 100% at your service, a perfect knowledge of Les 3 Vallées area, personalized advice, a selection of the best accommodation in each resort of Les 3 Vallées, an infinite number of possibilities...

Easy

MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE = PEACEFUL HOLIDAYS

We refund your 3 Vallées skipasses and summer passes

100% refund of your unused ‘stay’ pass : we will process any requests for modifications or cancellation of your pass right up until the day before the 1stday of validity.

“Stay” skipass in use : in the event of an early closure of the ski area, we will reimburse your “stay” skipass (from 2 to 21 days) in proportion to the days not used.

Season pass : in the event of an early closure of the ski area, you will be entitled to a refund provided that the conditions described in the T&Cs of the skilifts companies.

Contact the 3 Vallées skilifts companies

Refund guarantee for accommodations in Les 3 Vallées

Many accommodation providers (hotels, vacation residences, apartment rentals, etc.) have implemented refund guarantees that allow for free cancellation of reservations in case you are unable to travel.

To know the conditions of your host, the best solution is to contact him directly.

Discover our tailor-made accommodations

TIP #2 MOVE YOUR ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DAY

In Les 3 Vallées, as elsewhere, Saturdays during the school holidays are still the busiest days in terms of arrivals and departures.

Nowadays, many accommodation providers give you the chance to avoid these hectic days. Don't hesitate to talk to your accommodation provider and opt for a Sunday-to-Sunday holiday!

TIP #3 BUY YOUR SKIPASS ONLINE

A simple and effective way to save time is to buy your skipass online.

You can choose the type of skipass best suited to your level, how much time you want to spend skiing and the makeup of your group: family, solo, duo... there’s bound to be an offer that suits.

The online sales system takes care of everything for you, and systematically offers you the most suitable package and the best value for money.

Once you have ordered your 3 Vallées skipasses, you can have them delivered directly to your home, avoiding the need to go to the skipass office when you arrive, meaning you can head straight for the slopes!

TIP #4 RENT YOUR EQUIPMENT ONLINE

Equipment rental companies let you book your equipment online before you arrive. By sending in your measurements and ability, you will be perfectly equipped and any adjustments necessary can be made when you arrive.

Some shops even offer to deliver the equipment directly to your accommodation...!

Sunset in the 3 Valleys

Our practical advice

TIPS #5 BOOK YOUR INSTRUCTOR OR GUIDE ONLINE

a ski lesson with the French ski school in the 3 Valleys
And there’s a quick and simple way to do it: book online before you come! For the children or for you, to learn, to progress...

But also to make sure you’re in the right place at the right time, make the most of the immense ski area, ski on slopes that match your ability, soak up the best views, the most beautiful sunsets, the off-piste skiing of the century, the sunny sectors, the south-facing slopes and quiet runs...

To discover the hidden gems, learn about the fauna and flora, take in the names of the summits and hear about local life...

In short: there are a thousand and one good reasons to spend a day or two, or more, accompanied by an ESF ski instructor or a 3 Vallées guide.
Book your instructor or guide
a ski lesson with the French ski school in the 3 Valleys

TIP #6 CHOOSE THE TRANSPORT OPTION BEST SUITED TO YOU

Train, plane, bus, car... Les 3 Vallées ski area is accessible by every means of transport, just choose the one that suits you best.

As far as the train is concerned, shuttlebuses going to all the different resorts are available from Moûtiers train station.

If you come by car, don't hesitate to check the road conditions and make sure your vehicle is well equipped to drive on the snow! Remember, the Mountain Law has been in force since 2021 making snow tyres or snow chains compulsory in the Savoie department from November 1st to March 31st every year!

TIP #7 STAY INFORMED AND WELL EQUIPPED

Les 3 Vallées app keeps you updated with the latest snow conditions in real time and means you can check the weather forecast before you come. Have a quick look before packing your bags!

To save you time, we have also prepared a checklist of essentials to pack for your ski holiday:

Helmet

Mask

Sunglasses

Neck warmer

Sun cream

Gloves or mittens

Hat

Ski base layers (tights, socks, jumper, etc.)

Jumper or fleece

Ski clothing (warm trousers + jacket)...

To make the most of the slopes, nothing beats arriving in good physical condition! A little preparation to get in shape, prepare your thighs and joints is always a good idea.

In addition to taking the stairs instead of the lift, do some cardio training a few weeks before your holiday (running or cycling), some muscle strengthening exercises and stretching... there you go, you're ready!

The roads of the 3 Valleys

PREPARE, DISCOVER AND EXPLORE
WITH LES 3 VALLÉES APP

Live ski area information,

Security,

Locate your friends and family,

Track your day of skiing,

Buy your 3 Vallées skipasses,

Find out webcams and weather forecasts...

Every 3 Vallées ADDICT’s must-have !

Download the 3 Vallées application on Google Play
Download the 3 Vallées application on the Apple Store
3 Vallées app to track real-time opening updates of the ski area

OUR TIPS FOR ENJOYING YOUR SKI DAYS ONCE YOU'RE HERE

You've arrived and are ready to hit the slopes!

TIP #1 TAKE A GOOD LOOK AT THE PISTE MAP AND THE WEBCAMS

To make the most of your day, we advise you to plan your itinerary for the day or to choose the sector you want to ski in before you set out. For this, the piste map is your best friend.

Easy to slip into your pocket, they are available in paper format from all skipass sales outlets, and are also widely available in the 7 resorts that make up Les 3 Vallées (in the Tourist Offices for example, but also from most shops and accommodation suppliers).

Les 3 Vallées App means you can find out exactly where you are via your smartphone.

It will also provide you with useful information and live updates on the opening of the ski lifts and runs and, importantly, will warn you of technical issues or changes in the weather.

Finally, don't forget to take a look at the webcams! From the comfort of your bed, or at the breakfast table, you can see the real conditions on the ground and check, for example, that the sun is shining above the sea of clouds!!

View of Méribel, 3 Valleys resort
View of Méribel...

TIP #2 THEY ARE HERE FOR YOU


Any doubts or questions? Don't hesitate to ask the ski area teams on site! The ski patrollers, ski lift operators, instructors, sales assistants... are all happy to help if required!

TIP #3 FOLLOW THE RULES OF THE GAME


Skiing is a fun leisure activity, often done at speed ... But don’t forget, you are not alone on the slopes, and you must take care to protect your own safety and that of others.
To ensure that your holiday goes smoothly, keep in mind the following rules of good conduct on the slopes:

Respect for others

Ski run users must behave in such a way that they do not endanger or harm others either by their behaviour or with their equipment.

Speed control and behaviour

All ski run users must adapt their speed and behaviour to their personal ability and to the general conditions of the terrain and the weather, the state of the snow and the number of people on the slopes.

Controlling your direction

The uphill skier is in a position to choose their trajectory and should ensure that they choose a path that protects the safety of anyone downhill from them.

Overtaking

Overtaking can be done from above or below, from the right or the left; but it must always be done in a way that leaves enough space to prevent the person being overtaken from having to change their trajectory.

When crossing runs or when setting off

After stopping or at a junction, users must check uphill and downhill to ensure that they can proceed without danger to others or themselves.

Stopping

All users must avoid stopping in narrow sections or places without good visibility (e.g. behind a bump); in the event of a fall, they must move off the run as quickly as possible.

Ascending and descending on foot

Anyone who is obliged to walk up or down a ski run must use the edge of the run, taking care that neither they nor their equipment is a danger to others.

Respect for markings and warnings

The user must take into account the latest weather conditions, the state of the ski runs, and the snow. They must respect the markings and warnings in place.

Assistance

Anyone who witnesses or is involved in an accident must lend assistance, most importantly by raising the alert. If necessary, and at the request of the rescue team, they must remain available to help.

Identification

Any skier or snowboarder who is a witness to, or party to an accident must make their identify known.

A smooth plan

Plan
your trip

The 3 Vallées offer unparalleled diversity, uniqueness and intensity. Every experience in this region can be tailored to your desires. With so many options to choose from, we suggest you plan your trip to explore horizons you might not otherwise have considered.

3 Vallées ski area

TIP #4 SHARP SKIING


Skiing requires suitable and well-prepared equipment to be enjoyed safely.

It’s important to be well-equipped for the slopes: good, adapted and carefully prepared equipment is important, and will also help you to carve those turns, slide with control and brake safely.

If you have your own equipment, we suggest you have your skis serviced in one of the sports shops in Les 3 Vallées (unless you do it yourself), all of which are equipped with specific machines to perfectly sharpen the edges and repair the bases!

If you hire your equipment, you can be sure that you will have gear adapted to your level and your abilities, prepared with care to ensure your enjoyment.

TIP #5 IN GOOD COMPANY

For an even greater feeling of freedom and wide-open spaces, you can opt to go off-piste.

However, you should be accompanied by a mountain professional.

Mountain guides and ESF ski instructors will propose itineraries adapted to both the conditions and your ability, doing everything possible to ensure your safety.

Freeriding checklist

Ski instructor and Les 3 Vallées ambassador, Timy Théaux specialises in freeride and freerando. He's giving us his "equipment checklist" for an off-piste session.

EQUIPMENT

Wide skis adapted to powder snow skiing

Poles with wide baskets to help you push properly against deep snow

Ski helmet

Ski goggles

Neck warmer

AVD, Avalanche Victim Detector charged up and with you (must-have items for going off-pistes)

Waterproof, breathable ski clothing

      

RUCKSACK

Shovel & probe (must-have items for going off-pistes)

Fully charged mobile phone

Survival blanket

Area map & Piste map

Water &  Snacks (cereal bar, dried fruits...)

Spare pair of gloves

Sun cream

Sticky tape, string, Swiss army knife

        

The 2in1Mask by Les 3 Vallées®: THE CERTIFIED AFNOR NECK GAITER

Discover the 2in1Mask by Les 3 Vallées – much more than a simple accessory! While mask-wearing is no longer mandatory in ski lifts, our 2in1 mask remains an essential ally for your comfort.

Beyond its role in protecting against pathogens, our mask serves as a barrier against winter cold. Picture yourself racing down snow-covered slopes with your face comfortably shielded from the cold – it's the 2in1Mask that will provide you with that extra comfort.

But that's not all! Our versatile mask transforms into an ideal companion for your outdoor summer adventures. Whether it's hiking, cycling, or any other activity, the 2in1Mask provides lightweight and breathable protection against the elements while ensuring a unique style.

Le 2in1Mask en quelques mots : 

Ergonomic and made from breathable filter fabric, it will keep you warm and let you ski with total peace of mind.

Its adjustable head size and form fitting design across the nose makes it comfortable and ensures it stays in place.

It's your all-terrain accessory for all seasons.

3 Vallées necklace

15.00€

(including post and packaging in mainland France)

- A certified premium mask with filtration greater than 90%
- Good for 50 washes with filter efficiency guaranteed
- Made in Italy

Buy your 2in1Mask

View of Méribel, 3 Valleys resort
Golden delight in Méribel...

TIP #6 SKIING ON BAD WEATHER DAYS

Brides-les-Bains resort in the 3 Valleys

It goes without saying that skiing is an outdoor sport and therefore bad weather days are part of the deal. However, sometimes they even end up being the most memorable days!

In the world's largest ski area, the terrain and topography are very varied and different weather conditions can be managed.

For example, on days when visibility is not good, opt for the slopes winding down through the forests such as in Méribel, Courchevel or Saint-Martin-de-Belleville: the trees will help you see the lumps and bumps more easily! And later... the feel-good factor when you get home is guaranteed after a day on the slopes in bad weather!

Did you know?
When it’s foggy:

Look out for the orange-topped posts, which indicate the right-hand-side of the run

The round, coloured signs at the edge of the run indicate its colour. The numbers on them go in descending order from the top of the run, so the closer you are to No.1 the nearer you are to the bottom!

TIPS
#7

SKIING FOR EVERYONE

Les 3 Vallées ski area is designed so that everyone, both able-bodied and disabled, can ski in the best possible conditions.

Access to the ski lifts is adapted for wheelchair users, with special boarding facilities and trained staff.

ESF 3 Vallées ski instructors are trained and specialised in accompanying disabled skiers and offer adapted equipment if needed, so that everyone can enjoy the sensation of skiing and the panoramic views!

Many rental shops in Les 3 Vallées offer adapted equipment such as sit-skis.

Disabled people and their companions benefit from a 50% discount on the price of a half-day, full-day or week-long skipass on presentation of an orange disability card (with a degree of disability equal to or greater than 80%) or a valid mobility and inclusion card (with disability noted).

Our advice for after your holiday:

Sadly, your stay in Les 3 Vallées is already over. Here are a few tips for a tranquil departure, while taking a little piece of Les 3 Vallées home with you!

3 Valleys Summit

TIP #1 RETURNING YOUR EQUIPMENT

If you have rented equipment, make sure you have returned it all!

TIP #2 READY FOR THE ROAD

Before you leave, check the traffic and road conditions.

If you are leaving by train or plane, make use of one of the many taxis in Les 3 Vallées who will be happy to take you to your departure point, and will adjust their timing in case of snowfall or bad weather.

TIPS #3 PACKING

Don't forget to include the star badges your children were awarded during their ESF ski lessons. And for the gourmets, a nice piece of Beaufort cheese, and a jar of blueberry jam will bring back happy memories of Les 3 Vallées when you’re back home.

TIPS#4 KEEP IN TOUCH

If you’d like to stay in touch and continue to explore Les 3 Vallées area for a future visit, make sure you sign up to our newsletter! You’ll regularly receive our deals, various and varied top tips, as well as information about the multitude of experiences to be enjoyed every season, new adventures to be discovered and all the latest news...