Many people are still oblivious to the wealth of Summer Activities that Val Thorens has to offer during the warmer months. Once the snow has melted we are left with a summer paradise in which to walk or hike, Mountain Bike (MTB), Paraglide, rock climb or just lie back amongst the summer flowers & take in the stunning scenery. The Lift System is open during the summer, making it easy to access those high mountain trails & viewpoints, or if you fancy something more daring then there are numerous Mountain Guides & Activity Companies in the area to accompany you. You don't even need to bring your own mountain bike or climbing kit with you as there are plenty Sport Shops in town where you can rent all you need.
Activities in Val Thorens in Summer
The majority of things to do in Val Thorens relate to being outdoors, and whilst there are many organised activities, getting out there is mainly what it is about - at a leisurely pace or at warp speed, it's up to you. ... see "Val Thorens Activities - Summer" for more
Mountain Sports in Val Thorens
Val Thorens is the destination of choice for many skiers and snowboarders during the winter season. However, it is not only these mountain sports that attract visitors to the area. Mountain biking, hiking and paragliding are also popular here, and in this section you can find in-depth articles, not only for enthusiasts, but for everyone who aspires to become at one with the mountain! For back country/off piste skiing articles, please see our Insiders Guide in the Winter & Skiing section. ... see "Val Thorens Mountain Sports" for more
Areas & Maps for Val Thorens
The approach to Val Thorens is up the Belleville valley from Moûtiers, alt 800m. The road winds up the mountain through the steep-sided valley passing through several villages on the way and reaching St Martin at 1450m after 18km. The first lift of the 3 valleys ski network departs from here. Les Menuires lies at 1800m, a further 8km and Val Thorens is situated at 2300m and 38km from Moûtiers. To help you get your bearings, in this section you will find area maps showing you the layout of the land, detailed street maps, activity area maps, and lift & piste maps for Val Thorens, and the Three Valleys. ... see "Val Thorens Areas & Maps" for more
Lift System & Passes in Val Thorens
Val Thorens forms part of the Three Valleys lift system, which is considered to be the most efficient overall lift system in France (200 ski lifts transport 260,000 skiers hourly!). With such an extensive lift network in operation both summer and winter, it makes sense that there are a wide range of lift pass options available for the skier or boarder, mountain biker and pedestrian. ... see "Val Thorens Lift System - Summer" for more
Events in Val Thorens
There are heaps of events held throughout the year in Val Thorens and the Three Valleys, ranging from small and quirky local festivals, to world renowned sporting events. Music festivals are also hugely popular during the summer months and provide a great excuse to make a quick trip out to the Alps. In this section, we bring you information about the major annual events in Val Thorens, and don't forget to check out our weekly what's on calender. ... see "Val Thorens Events - Summer" for more
Find out what Val Thorens is like to visit and start planning your trip to the Belleville Valley! Our knowledge of the resort comes from years of responding to email enquiries, getting ourselves lost, finding ourselves again, late night bar conversations, your feedback, plus translations of local brochures. In this section we hope to give you a little information on the local area, where to eat and drink, what to expect of the weather and all the other essentials you need to plan a great holiday. ... see "Val Thorens & Belleville Valley" for more
Transport & Parking in Val Thorens
All the information you need on car parking, the local bus service, and how to get from the airport to Val Thorens, can be found in this section. Note that Val Thorens is edging closer and closer to being a car-free resort. Driving is restricted to luggage drop-off only, and then you must take your car to one of the open or covered car parks in the resort. There is a free shuttle bus service that runs 24 hours from the car parks, that take you back to your accommodation. ... see "Val Thorens Transport & Parking" for more
Families & Kids in Val Thorens
Val Thorens may be a natural playground for adults but it's wonderland for children! Both in summer and in winter, there are a multitude of adventures to be had, and experiences to be cherished. Val Thorens is very much a family-orientated resort and as such has been awarded the “Famille Plus Montagne” label because it is one of the best equipped resorts and makes strident efforts in helping children to enjoy the mountain activities. ... see "Val Thorens for Families & Kids" for more
Equipment & Clothing Guide
Have you literally got 'all the gear' but have no idea what to do with it?? Unless you want to look like Posh Spice on the slopes, knowing a bit about your skis/snowboards/bikes/transceivers etc will help you avoid being any old Wannabe... Having the right equipment for your chosen activity will help ensure that you get the best possible introduction to your sport (if you are a beginner), or speed along your learning curve if you are looking to improve. The easier and quicker you learn, the more pleasurable your experience will be! In this section, you will find guides to help you select the most appropriate gear for your sport and ability, as well as some insider knowledge on the "must have" kit for this coming season. ... see "Latest Mountain Biking Kit" for more