The Three Valleys Ski Holidays

Ski holidays in The Three Valleys

Welcome to the crown jewel of alpine skiing – The Three Valleys. With an astonishing 600km of interconnected pistes linking legendary resorts including Courchevel, Méribel, and Val Thorens, this is the world's largest and most celebrated ski area. From gentle beginner slopes to challenging off-piste terrain, the diversity here is unmatched. The Three Valleys doesn't just impress with its size, but with its impeccable grooming, ultra-modern lift systems, and snow-sure conditions that last from early winter through spring.

Beyond the phenomenal skiing, The Three Valleys delivers an unforgettable mountain experience. Picture yourself sipping vin chaud on a sun-drenched terrace, exploring charming alpine villages, or indulging in world-class dining – including several Michelin-starred restaurants. The après-ski scene is equally impressive, with everything from cosy wine bars to legendary slope-side parties. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-fueled adventure or pure relaxation, this ski paradise caters to every desire.

What truly sets The Three Valleys apart is its ability to create magical moments for everyone. Families love the excellent ski schools and gentle nursery slopes, while experts can test their skills on some of the most thrilling terrain in the Alps. With luxurious spas, breathtaking scenery, and an atmosphere that blends authentic alpine charm with modern sophistication, it's no wonder skiers return year after year. This is more than a ski holiday – it's the experience of a lifetime.

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Mountain Facts

This mountain paradise encompasses an astonishing 600km of interconnected pistes, earning it the title of the largest ski area in the world. With 166 ski lifts effortlessly connecting the slopes, you’ll spend less time walking and more time skiing some of the 328 runs available. The 55 green, 131 blue, 107 red, and 35 black pistes promise something for everyone, from newbies to old-timers.

For those chasing altitude, the highest skiable point reaches a lung-busting 3,230m in Val Thorens, offering not only incredible views but also some of the most reliable snow conditions in the Alps. And speaking of snow, the area is as snow-sure as it gets: 85% of the ski area sits at 1,800m, and it’s backed by a staggering 2,300+ snow cannons to keep the slopes in pristine condition.

Snow conditions in The Three Valleys

The Three Valleys' snow credentials are unmatched, with high-altitude skiing across all resorts, extensive north-facing terrain, and cutting-edge snowmaking ensuring exceptional conditions throughout the season. Val Thorens, Europe's highest resort at 3,230m, recorded 726cm total snowfall in 2024 with a maximum base depth of 384cm, while its 2,300+ snow cannons guarantee coverage when needed.

Méribel's prized north-facing runs near Altiport and Mount Vallon benefit from excellent snow retention, averaging 8m annual snowfall, with last season seeing a 270cm maximum summit depth. Courchevel complements its natural snowfall (559cm in 2024!) with 700 snow cannons covering 25% of pistes, while its high-altitude slopes (up to 2,740m) and protective tree-lined runs ensure consistent quality.

What truly sets The Three Valleys apart is its intelligent slope design and snow management. The area's combination of high elevations (85% above 1,800m), strategic north-facing aspects, and Europe's most advanced snowmaking infrastructure creates remarkably reliable conditions. From Val Thorens' glacier-like base depths to Courchevel's storm-proof wooded runs and Méribel's perfectly preserved north-facing powder, every resort offers snow-sure skiing from early December through late April - a key reason why it remains the world's premier ski destination.

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Skiing in The Three Valleys

What truly makes The Three Valleys extraordinary is its unparalleled connectivity. You can spend days exploring without retracing your tracks - ski from Courchevel's tree-lined runs to Méribel's panoramic slopes before tackling Val Thorens' high-altitude challenges, all in one seamless journey. The sophisticated lift network means you'll spend less time waiting and more time experiencing the variety that makes this the world's greatest ski area - whether that's discovering new favourite runs or returning to that perfect piste you just can't resist.

The Three Valleys isn't just a ski area - it's a skier's paradise where scale meets perfection. Imagine 600km of immaculately groomed slopes, diverse terrain for every ability, and famously reliable snow conditions all seamlessly connected by one of the world's most efficient lift systems. This is where beginners build confidence on Méribel's gentle blues, intermediates hone their skills on Courchevel's endless cruising reds, and experts test their limits on Val Thorens' challenging couloirs and La Tania's thrilling off-piste terrain.

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Snowboarding in The Three Valleys

The Three Valleys is a snowboarder's dream, offering endless opportunities to carve your own path. From wide-open powder fields begging for fresh tracks to perfectly maintained snow parks and magical tree runs, this vast playground delivers every type of riding experience imaginable. Freestyle enthusiasts will thrive in Méribel's renowned DC Area 43 and Val Thorens' challenging park, while freeriders can explore legendary off-piste terrain and hidden powder stashes that will get any adrenaline junkie's heart racing.

What makes The Three Valleys truly special for snowboarders is its incredible diversity. Beginners can build confidence on gentle, wide slopes designed for easy progression, while experienced riders can spend days exploring without ever repeating a run. With seamless lift connections between resorts, you can chase the best conditions - whether that means fresh corduroy in Courchevel first thing, afternoon park laps in Val Thorens, or hunting for untouched powder in Méribel's backcountry zones. This is snowboarding at its absolute best.

Accommodation in The Three Valleys

Whether you’re after luxury or a more wallet-friendly stay, The Three Valleys has you covered. Fancy ski-in, ski-out convenience? Val Thorens is your go-to. Craving traditional alpine charm? Méribel’s cosy chalets are calling your name. For great value without sacrificing access, check out La Tania and Brides-les-Bains. From spacious chalets in Courchevel to self-catering apartments in Les Menuires, there’s something for everyone.

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All Accommodation in The Three Valleys Ski Area

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Ski holidays in The Three Valleys

Après-ski in The Three Valleys

Après-ski in The Three Valleys has something for everyone, from raucous celebrations to tranquil mountain retreats. With unique venues across all Three Valleys resorts, you’ll always find the perfect way to end every ski day in the Alps.

  • Looking for legendary party spots? La Folie Douce in Méribel and Val Thorens is the ultimate alpine party with DJs, champagne showers & dancing in ski boots. Think live music & boot-stomping energy at iconic slope-side venues.
  • For luxury and sophistication, head to Courchevel's chic bars, like Le Bar du Lobby and Le Cave des Creux. Sit back with elegant cocktails, live piano, and plush lounge atmospheres.
  • If you want high-end spas with mountain-view treatments, L'Apogée Courchevel is the place to be.
  • After alpine charm? Traditional mountain huts like Le Chalet de la Marine in Méribel and La Ferme de la Choumette in Courchevel boast vin chaud by roaring fires and hearty Savoyard cuisine.
  • For ultimate relaxation, Le Coucou Spa in Méribel is one of a number of luxury wellness retreats, offering got tubs under the stars and soothing post-ski massages.
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Facilities in The Three Valleys

The Three Valleys sets the gold standard for ski infrastructure, with ultra-modern lift systems that minimise queues and maximise your time on the slopes. Over 2,300 snow cannons work tirelessly to maintain impeccable piste conditions, while high-speed chairlifts and gondolas – including the record-breaking Vanoise Express connecting Les Arcs to La Plagne – whisk you effortlessly between valleys. This seamless network means you can ski from Courchevel to Méribel to Val Thorens without missing a beat, enjoying perfectly groomed runs from first tracks to last call.

Beyond the slopes, The Three Valleys anticipates every need. Top-tier rental shops offer the latest gear, while internationally renowned ski schools cater to all abilities. After skiing, unwind at luxury spas like L'Apogée in Courchevel or soothe muscles in outdoor hot tubs with mountain views. Dining options range from charming mountain huts serving hearty tartiflette to 10 Michelin-starred restaurants, including three-starred Le 1947. With state-of-the-art facilities meeting alpine charm at every turn, The Three Valleys delivers an effortlessly polished ski experience.

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Facilities for children in The Three Valleys

The Three Valleys is a paradise for young skiers, with dedicated beginner zones, gentle slopes and specially trained instructors to help little ones find their snow legs. Resorts like Méribel and Courchevel offer excellent English-speaking ski schools and kids' clubs, while imaginative features like Méribel's pirate-themed slopes and Val Thorens' exciting toboggan runs add extra magic to learning. Parents can relax knowing their children are in safe hands, with many resorts providing convenient "ski kindergarten" services and easy-to-use magic carpet lifts perfect for first-timers.

When the skiing finishes, the fun continues with an array of child-friendly activities across the valleys. Families can enjoy ice skating on picturesque rinks, swimming in heated pools, or unforgettable husky sledging adventures through snow-covered forests. Evening entertainment includes spectacular torchlit descents and fireworks displays, while many restaurants offer special children's menus and early dining options. With everything from dedicated family accommodation to convenient equipment hire services, The Three Valleys makes skiing with children an absolute breeze - ensuring happy little skiers and stress-free parents throughout your holiday.

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Why choose a ski holiday to the Three Valleys with Erna Low?

Experience and service: We offer you a one-stop shop for everything you could possibly need for a ski holiday.

Incredible value holidays: We’ll beat any competitor’s price, giving you the best value for money.

Huge choice of accommodation: Choose from bargain breaks, 5-star premium deals and so much more.

Customisable travel: We specialise in fully customisable ski holidays; offering a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets.

Fully protected bookings: We’re ABTOT and ATOL members and abide by their Code of Conduct.

5-star Trustpilot reviews: We pride ourselves on the service we provide, which is why out of 10 of our clients would recommend us.

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If you cannot find what you are looking for please contact us and we can help you build your package

Each valley has its own identity and experience which makes your holiday feel really full!

Lou Jennings, Director

The Three Valleys Ski Extras
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