Posted 16 September 2024

Top 5 Ski Runs in Val d'Isère

Heading off to Val d'Isère or Tignes this year? Don't miss these top runs. From beginner green to icy half pipes we think you'll find a favourite in our mix.

5. Glacier - Val d'Isere

Val d'Isere has its own Glacier to rival Tignes's Grand Motte. A high-altitude gem that offers spectacular skiing on pristine snow, thanks to its location atop the Pissaillas Glacier. As a blue run, it provides a wide, gentle descent, making it ideal for intermediate skiers while offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The reliable snow conditions and breathtaking scenery make it a must-visit, particularly in the early season when lower-altitude runs may lack coverage. It’s a smooth, enjoyable ride with excellent snow, perfect for skiers looking to experience glacier skiing.

Whilst you're there be sure to check out the one of a kind Leissiéres lift nearby. It takes you roller coaster style over a mountain ridge into the adjacent valley.

Up and over.

4. Face de Bellevarde

Face de Bellevarde in Val d'Isère is one of the most iconic and challenging black runs in the Alps. Famous for hosting World Cup races and the 1992 Winter Olympics, this steep and demanding piste tests even the most advanced skiers. Take on the most difficult run, its also the steepest peaking at 44 degrees.

Starting from the Bellevarde summit, it drops sharply towards the village, with a combination of technical moguls, steep gradients, and icy patches, particularly later in the day. The run offers exhilarating views but requires strong legs and expert control, making it a rite of passage for serious skiers in Val d'Isère.

3. Piste L

Piste L is a challenging blue run that keeps you on your toes from start to finish. Its defining feature is the narrow, half-pipe-shaped valley that requires precise control and sharp turns, adding an exciting edge to the descent. The run is a bit of Jekyll and Hyde, blue in the morning red by the sunset - after a busy day it gets icy with large piles of brushed snow either side, we would advise unconfident skiers to visit this before midday.

Despite the added challenge, the effort is well worth it, Piste L delivers a thrilling ride all the way back into the heart of Val d'Isère, where you glide between buildings for a unique finish right in the village.

The combination of technical terrain and scenic arrival makes this run a standout in the resort.

L is for Limber.

2. Borsat

Borsat, is a green with some altitude! The top of the run is particularly challenging that is very quickly flattens out into a nice wide piste offering great room to practice your carving all whilst admiring the view. It has a dedicated lift which you can loop around all day long.

There is a pair of sneaky off-piste natural half pipes located on the west side with regular drop-ins that don't have you straying too far. (Pictured Above)

Organic plumbing.

1. Grand Pré

Don’t be fooled — Grand Pré may be classified as a green run, but it delivers a smooth ride that packs a punch with its potential for pure downhill speed. It was an instant favourite for us, with the only downside being the relatively slow lift back up for another go! As a green run, it's perfect for the whole family, allowing everyone to ski at their own pace. Plus, its remote location means you’ll often have the piste almost to yourselves.

For those wishing to dabble into off piste, there are tracks to be made in the powder under the lift that are well sheltered and within full view of the run for maximum safety.

To top it off, there’s a challenging border cross course nearby, making this area a trifecta of fun.

Once you're tuckered out, you can chill out at the bar next to the lift and admire the views.

My other car is skis.