Of all the “Vals” in the world (such as Val d’Arly, Val Thorens, Val Doonican, Val Kilmer and my Aunt Val), it is telling that “Val” refers to Val d’Isère. It’s a cult thing; many aficionados of Val d’Isère would just not ski elsewhere. It’s the steeps & deeps, the snowpark and the abundance of world class free-ride zones with more than 25000 acres of accessible backcountry skiing. It’s not all insanity though, there is plenty for the green and blue runners too!

The Ski Company has some fantastic accommodation in Val d’Isere including a five-star résidence close to the centre of town!