Valmorel
Valmorel Skiing
Considering the convenient, accessible location and the extent of terrain on offer, it’s perhaps surprising that Valmorel seems so far to have slipped below the radar of most British skiers. The main village begins at around 1400m and is lift-linked to Celliers, Doucy Combelouvière and (beyond the famous Col de la Madeleine) Saint François Longchamp. The resulting 165km of pistes are spread across an impressive 3600 hectares, whose combined terrain is known as le Grand Domaine. Currently there are 50 ski lifts, skier capacity having received a major boost with the addition of two powerful new high-speed installations – a six-seater chairlift and an eight-seater gondola.
Despite the altitudes (1300-2550m) being relatively modest, the geographical location attracts dependable snowfalls, and by way of further assurance, 315 snow canons help maintain snow quality on key runs.
Valmorel only
100km of pistes, 34 lifts, 56 slopes:
Green slopes: 14
Blue slopes: 26
Red slopes: 11
Black slopes: 5
175 snow cannons on 11 pistes totalling 13km.
VALMOREL SKI AREA
The Grand Domaine’s real strength is its suitability for families, early intermediates and beginners, and Valmorel makes a fine base from which to explore it.
VALMOREL BEGINNERS
There are special beginners’ areas for “gentle” ski learning. These are specially designed, reserved and made safe for learning and improving confidence. There are three mini-zone areas for beginners and skiers who want to make a few turns:
- The Charmette-Bois de la Croix sector (Valmorel): four draglifts and a treadmill are available to help learn and develop confidence.
- On top of the gondola Pierrafort (Valmorel): the Malatrai draglift and the Roches Blanches carpet are ideal for families with young children. They’re also accessible to pedestrians.
- In the Combelouvière area, the easy and sunny Echappeaux-Charmettes zone is in an “enchanted forest”.
There’s one free drag-lift in Valmorel - the Blanchot - for first time skiers.
Novices can also get a safe, sheltered foretaste of the blue runs on the green-graded Chantemerle, which drops through the trees into Doucy Combelouvière. Crossing over into Saint François Longchamp adds a sense of covering some distance (you’re now in the Maurienne Valley) and a different perspective on things, without the risk of getting out of your depth, ability-wise. In fact, the additional 57km of pistes on this side are even gentler, being mostly greens and blues.
VALMOREL INTERMEDIATES
The local runs are mostly blue graded. The blues are well linked, to offer some enjoyable cruising. There are some gentle blue runs in Saint Francois Longchamp too.
VALMOREL EXPERTS
At first glance the flattering, mostly undemanding terrain might put off advanced skiers, but there’s worthwhile off-piste to explore and a handful of black-graded pistes includes some highly rated runs with dependable snow quality. They’re accessed above Valmorel via higher drag lifts like Mottet (2394m), Riondet (2262m) and Gollet (2000m), or above Saint François Longchamp via Schuss (2099m). More experienced skiers will enjoy the red graded pistes which depart from beside the black runs mentioned above, plus the descents from either side of the Col de la Madeleine. There are also ‘virgin areas’, like the Lauzière mountain range, with its numerous off-piste gulleys.
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Valmorel Ski Hire
Pre-book your Valmorel ski hire with Peak Retreats.
Please note, these Pound Sterling prices are for indication only. They will fluctuate based on Euro/£ exchange rate. Please call us for the latest prices.
Special offers: *7 days for the price of 6. Free Skis/snowboard & boots (Blue/Red) for party leaders of groups of 10 or more all taking equipment. 1 Free helmet per child aged 6 and under for every adult booking skis or snowboards & boots (must be under same booking reference and requested on form above). Other duration prices on request - Cross Country ski prices on request.
Find out more about Peak Retreats ski hire
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Valmorel Ski School
Pre-book your Valmorel ESF ski school with Peak Retreats. Find out more about Peak Retreats ski school
Ski school for children is available to book from 3 years to 12 years, in Valmorel, with Peak Retreats. 3-5 year olds will go into the Piou Piou lessons.
Please note, these Pound Sterling prices are for indication only. They will fluctuate based on Euro/£ exchange rate. Please call us for the latest prices.
Ski School: Please note that lesson times are subject to change right until the last minute. Outside French school holidays the ski school reserves the right to cancel group lessons should numbers be insufficient. For peak periods (24/12-7/1, 11/2-11/3 & 31/3-24/4) we strongly recommend that you book as early as possible and in any case at least 6 weeks prior to the required dates. Morning lessons tend to get booked up first and therefore we may only be able to offer afternoon classes within 6 weeks of departure. In some resorts English speaking instructors may not always be available, particularly at peak times.
We cannot always guarantee that prices will be cheaper than in resort. When ski packs prices are calculated, the currency is bought at the exchange rates that apply at the time. You can be assured that once you have booked your extras, if the pound depreciates, you will not be charged more for your ski packs, enabling you to budget for your holiday in advance.
Valmorel Individual Tuition 16/17 (not pre-bookable)
Individual tuitions can only be purchased directly from the ski school. Peak Retreats cannot pre-book these.
Around €60 - 71 per 1.5 hours for 1-2 people.
Please note that prices are only an indication and are subject to change
Ski school Valmorel contact number for private lessons:
Ecole du Ski Francais Valmorel +33 (0)4 79 09 81 86
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Valmorel Ski Passes
Pre-book your Valmorel lift passes with Peak Retreats. Find out more about Peak Retreats ski passes
Please note, these Pound Sterling prices are for indication only. They will fluctuate based on Euro/£ exchange rate. Please call us for the latest prices.
Other lift pass on offer (to buy locally in resort in Euros):
Grand Domaine ski pass – ½ day and daily rates 15/16:
½ day - €28.10 children, €32.4 adults
Day - €36.60 children, €43 adults
Valmorel ski pass – ½ day and daily rates 15/16:
½ day - €26.20 children, €30.60 adults
Day - €34.20 children, €40.90 adults
The Blanchot draglift in Valmorel is free.
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Valmorel Ski Activities
In addition to the downhill terrain there are seven snowparks, some 50km of groomed routes for cross-country skiers and walkers, plus opportunities to try parapente and speedriding.
On foot or on snowshoes, the 50km of marked and maintained trails discover another side of Grand Domaine. Via the chairlift Altispace, Lanchettes or Combelouviere easily access to altitude range to enjoy a unique panorama.
Valmorel Nordic skiing
20 km of marked-out itineraries leave from Les Avanchers and go towards the Empyrée and Pierre Laron. The style here is more Alpine and access is free. From Valmorel, access to the pistes is by free shuttle buses.
Snowparks in Grand Domaine
Charmettes boardercross (blue category)
The Valmocross (blue category) and Mini snowpark (green category): Sector Arenouillaz.
The Snowpark Gollet (red category): modules, boardercross and a Big Air Bag.
Snowcross Gollet (red category), the Snowcross Noire du Mottet (black category) and the Snowcross Riondet (black category): Secured Zones ungroomed.
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Valmorel Snow Report – 2006-2016 (10 season average)
Here is the snow record data for Valmorel. The first row shows the week for which the measurement applies eg. February 3 is the 3rd week in February. Top slopes shows the average snow cover in cm at the top of the ski area. Bottom Slopes shows the average snow cover in cm at the bottom of the ski area (this is generally where the nursery pistes are located). About 10 cm is generally enough to ski but it very much depends on what’s below ie. grass or more rocky surface.
10 year ski season average for Valmorel:
| Month |
Nov |
Dec |
Dec |
Dec |
Dec |
Jan |
Jan |
Jan |
Jan |
Feb |
Feb |
Feb |
Feb |
Mar |
Mar |
Mar |
Mar |
Apr |
Apr |
Apr |
| Week |
4 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
| Upper Slopes (cm) |
n/a |
56 |
39 |
63 |
95 |
103 |
111 |
122 |
129 |
142 |
150 |
157 |
163 |
169 |
171 |
171 |
171 |
171 |
162 |
123 |
| Lower Slopes (cm) |
n/a |
29 |
19 |
35 |
41 |
50 |
51 |
55 |
63 |
72 |
76 |
76 |
74 |
71 |
64 |
59 |
49 |
39 |
34 |
21 |
Current snow conditions may be available to view on the Valmorel webcam, available from the Tourist Office website.
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Valmorel Opening Dates
Grand Domaine opening times:
Saint Francois Longchamp:
Valmorel: 17/12/16 – 16/04/17
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Valmorel Child Care
Valmorel has acquired the Famille Plus label for its childcare facilities. Please view here to view more information on the Famille Plus label.
The Piou-Piou children's club - Valmorel
From December 20th to April 16st
From 8.45 to 12.30 and 1.45 to 5.30
From 18 months to 3 years.
Contact: 0033 479 09 84 45
Out on the snow garden, a playground extends to the forest and allows many snow activities. Inside, rooms are bright and cheerful. Lounge is also available for children to take a nap in peace.
Guideline prices 15/16:
1/2 day - €39
Meal - €19
6 half days without lunch
8:45 to 12:15 or 1:45 p.m. to 5:15 p.m - € 156.00
6 half-days with lunch
8:45 to 1:45 p.m. or 11:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m - € 270.00
6 days without lunch
8:45 to 12:15 and 1:45 p.m. to 5:15 p.m - € 274.00
6 days with meals
8:45 to 5:15 p.m - € 369.00
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Valmorel Resort Activities
Valmorel Gyropode Segway
Open daily throughout the year.
Valmorel Ski safari
Ski safari on the most beautiful off piste in theTarentaise, leaving fromValmorel. 2, 3, 4 days or à la carte.
Valmorel Speed flying
Open daily.
A new activity derivative of paragliding.
Valmorel Discovery walk
3 hours in which you can begin with and discover all the different sides of snow shoe walking and all the other possibilities of walks in the valley either on foot or on snow shoes.
Valmorel Trappers evening
From December to April: open daily.
Daniel and Arnaud accompany you on a snow hike into nature, with head lamps and torches, in the heart of the Morel Valley. This will be followed by a Savoyard meal in warm and welcoming surroundings.
Valmorel Yesterday Outing
From December to April: open daily.
Outing with donkeys or workhorses through snowy paths, food stopover in old chalets around the fire.
Valmorel Tandem flights paragliding
A team of state qualified professionals share their passion for free flying with you: during the flight, man's dream becomes reality.
Valmorel Spa des Cîmes
Well being and relaxation in the heart of Valmorel's pedestrian street.
Valmorel "Evening outing"
At the end of the day, a walk of one hour will take you up to the Aigle Blanc restaurant where a Savoyard meal will be waiting.
Valmorel Airboard
An unforgettable descent from the top of the pistes right down into Valmorel in Airboard (a sort of individual inflatable toboggans). A super activity for having fun with the family.
Adult: 14€
Children: 14€
Valmorel Snowshoe - Aperitif
An easy walk to discover the joys of snow shoeing as well as little known Savoyard flavours.
Valmorel Ice waterfall
For a really fun activity in the heart of the ski area on a natural waterfall. Come and try it out for yourself.
Valmorel "Resto-gliss" evening
Vamorel organises ‘resto-apéro-gliss’ which takes place every Wednesday. After a delicious dinner of local specialties in a mountain restaurant, guests slide down in the resort on a Snakegliss. This is from €26 to €50 per person.
Valmorel Quad Outings
Discover the pleasure of driving on snow in superb surroundings, all around Valmorel,
Valmorel Ski touring
A team of committed professionals ready to help you get the best out of your Valmorel holiday.
Valmorel Snowkart
Modern Luge (karting snow), allowing to evolve on tracks with controlled curves and slippage
Valmorel Airboard
Downhill inflatable sled high-tech (snow bodyboarding ) , framed by an ESF instructor.
Sensations forests and adrenaline guaranteed! Adults and Teens.
esf-valmorel@wanadoo.fr
+33 479 09 81 86
Please note: All the above information is for information only. For the most up-to-date information please visit the resort tourist office website. All prices for activities are in local currency (€ Euros) and are bookable and payable locally in resort.
Valmorel Tourist Office
0033 479 098 555
Website: www.valmorel.com
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Valmorel Après-ski, Bars & Restaurants
Valmorel has a number of restaurants and bars so there is plenty of choice.
Valmorel restaurants and bars
Le Ski Roc – Valmorel
33 Bourg-Morel
Open daily.
Phone: 0033 4 79 09 83 17
Quality food - Wine bar - Chalet style
Le Prariond - Valmorel
Open daily from 9.30 AM to 10 PM.
Phone: 0033 6 09 88 44 05
Quality cuisine - Evenings - View of Mont Blanc
La Source - Valmorel
3 Bourg-Morel
Open daily.
Phone: 0033 6 31 46 88 47
At the bottom of the pistes - Cocktail - Grill - Ambience
Les Marmottons - Les Avanchers-Valmorel
La Charmette
Open daily.
Phone: 0033 4 79 09 81 80
Refined and savoyard cuisine - Open fireplace
Les Voiles du Nant - Valmorel
Top of télésiège de l'Altispace
Open daily.
Phone: 0033 6 12 32 27 71
Pedestrian access, view of Mont Blanc , on the liasion with Saint François Longchamp. Every Tuesday lunchtime: tasting of regional products+ diots. Every day from 3pm: ice bar.
Hôtel du Bourg - Pub - Valmorel
Bourg Morel
Open daily.
Phone: 0033 4 79 09 86 66
Terrace - Open fireplace - Billiards - Internet
L'Aigle Blanc - Les Avanchers-Valmorel
l'Empyré
Open daily.
Phone: 0033 4 79 09 83 76
In the heart of the forest - Savoyard specialities
Table du Berger - Valmorel
22 Bourg-Morel
Open daily.
Phone:0033 4 79 09 83 19
Savoyard cuisine - Grill - Pancakes - etc...
Le Jimbo Lolo - Valmorel
29 Bourg-Morel
Open daily from 8 AM to 2 AM.
Phone: 0033 6 86 97 37 14
Bar tapas & Tex Mex - South america atmosphere
La Flambée - Valmorel
Bourg-Morel
Open daily.
Phone: 0033 4 79 09 81 61
Pancakes - Raclette - Specialities
L’Ecuelle - Valmorel
Hameau de Crève-CÅ“ur
Open daily from 8 AM to 11 PM.
Phone: 0033 4 79 09 80 84
L’Altipiano - Valmorel
Top of Télécabine de Pierrafort
Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Phone: 0033 6 60 85 85 22
Pedestrian access - Lounge - Play area - Live music
Le Café Alpin - Valmorel
5 Bourg-Morel
Open daily.
Phone: 0033 6 03 11 62 51
At the bottom of the pistes - A la carte - Specialities - Pizzas
Le Petit Prince - Valmorel
7 Bourg-Morel
Open daily.
Phone: 0033 4 79 09 81 71
Savoyard specialities - Pierrades
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Getting to Valmorel, France
By Road:
Driving Distance from Calais to Valmorel 570 miles or 8hrs20. Go to Albertville on the A43 from Chambéry or the N 212 from Annecy. Take the dual carriageway RN 90 in the direction of Moûtiers. Take exit 37 for Valmorel.
By Rail:
Quick access with the TGV which arrives at the Moûtiers-Salins/Brides les Bains train station.
Transdev Savoie
Transfers: Train station - Valmorel - Airports correspondances
Phone: 0820 205 330 - Website: www.mobisavoie.fr
Buses from the Moutiers bus and train station to the resort, meet trains and coaches throughout the weekend. Click here for timetable and traffic conditions.
Airports:
Chambery Airport is 90km from Valmorel (1 hour)
www.chambery-airport.com
Lyon St Exupery is 180km from Valmorel (1 ¾ hours)
www.lyonairport.com
Geneva Airport is 125km from Valmorel (1 ¾ hours)
www.gva.ch/en
Public shuttle bus transfers from airports
Lyon Airport - Valmorel via Moutiers (www.lys-altibus.com).
Geneva Airport - Valmorel via Moutiers (www.coach-station.com).
Chambery Airport - Valmorel via Moutiers (www.lys-altibus.com).
Car parking
PLEASE NOTE: In Valmorel, all the car parking is payable. Depending on what you are looking for, there are 530 underground parking spots and 1200 outdoor parking spots. http://www.valmoparc.com
Access around Valmorel
The "Valmobus" shuttle buses are free and provide links to and from the resort, every day from 8 am to 8 pm (about every 20 minutes).
Airport Transfer
For pre-bookable private transfer rates with Peak Retreats, view here.
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Valmorel Amenities
Valmorel is served by a range of amenities including:
Sherpa supermarkets:
Le Bourg - 07.30-13.00 and 15.30-20.00
Creve Coeur - 07.30-19.30
Cake shop, cheese shop, regional products, Spar, sports shops, doctors, pharmacy, vet (in Moutiers)
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The supermarket on site is incredibly well stocked and reasonable for the quality and convenience.
Mrs B
( 08 Apr 17 )
The cafe at the bottom of the Col Madeleine run is the best for food/seating and views of the ski area.
Mrs B
( 08 Apr 17 )
The Lanchette lift next to the Grange aux Fees saves a lot of hard work getting on to the pistes.
Mr R
( 11 Mar 17 )
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