Val d’Isère: The Concierge Edit
Where to ski, eat, experience and celebrate
Val d’Isère is one of the French Alps’ most iconic ski resorts, known for its high-altitude slopes, extensive ski area, lively après-ski scene and exceptional mountain restaurants. But beyond the names that appear in every Val d’Isère guide, there are the places our team recommends to guests season after season.
From the ski runs they would choose on a day off to the restaurants they would book themselves, these are the slopes, restaurants, après-ski spots and alpine experiences in Val d’Isère that consistently deliver.
Where to ski in Val d’Isère
Face de Bellevarde
One of Val d’Isère’s most iconic descents, Face de Bellevarde is steep, technical and best skied early before conditions change. It is a run that demands attention, with sweeping views over the village and a sense of history that makes it feel different from the rest of the mountain.
Le Fornet Glacier to the valley floor
For a longer, more scenic route, start high on the glacier and ski back down through a mix of blues and reds. The views towards the Vanoise are some of the best in the resort, and the quieter feel of the Fornet side makes it particularly special. Thanks to the altitude, snow conditions here can often hold well later into the season.
The OK and Orange
Two rewarding runs for confident skiers. The OK is one of Val d’Isère’s iconic World Cup pistes, with steeper sections, wide open pitches and plenty of pace. Orange drops towards La Daille through varied terrain and often feels quieter than neighbouring runs, despite offering equally enjoyable skiing. A ski guide for the day is well worth considering here, helping guests make the most of the ski area and discover parts of the mountain they may otherwise miss.
Arcelle
A quieter red run tucked away from the main traffic. Smooth, scenic and enjoyable without feeling too demanding, Arcelle is a brilliant choice for intermediate skiers looking for something a little more peaceful.
Where to eat lunch in Val d’Isère
One of the best high-altitude lunch spots in Val d’Isère, with sweeping views across the mountains. The food is honest and well done, but the setting is the real reason to book. Choose a clear day and, where possible, sit outside.
Authentic, atmospheric and full of alpine character. Le Peau de Vache is the kind of mountain restaurant that reminds you exactly why you are in the French Alps. Expect generous Savoyard cooking, a warm atmosphere and a crowd that includes both locals and returning guests.
Where to eat dinner in Val d’Isère
Val d’Isère’s Michelin-starred restaurant and a strong choice for a special dinner during the week. The cooking is refined and contemporary, with chef Antoine Gras drawing inspiration from Savoyard terroir and seasonal Alpine ingredients. For a group looking for one memorable evening out, this is a natural choice.
A favourite among Val d’Isère regulars, René sits above Le Fornet on the Mangard slope, offering panoramic mountain views and a warm, relaxed atmosphere. The menu combines refined bistronomic cooking with quality ingredients, while the open charcoal kitchen adds depth and flavour to many of the dishes.
Some of the best meals are the ones you do not need to leave the chalet for. Our chefs create menus around the group, the season and the highest-quality ingredients available, bringing restaurant-level dining into the privacy of your own alpine home. No reservation, no transfer home, just the table, the fire and the evening ahead.
What to do beyond the slopes
One of the most requested experiences among our guests season after season. Dog sledding offers a memorable way to experience the mountains beyond the pistes, with expert mushers leading guests through the winter landscape. It is suitable for families and best booked early, as availability can move quickly.
A frozen circuit, proper cars and a completely different way to experience the mountains. Ice driving is not the most obvious alpine activity, which is often exactly why guests remember it. It is fun, technical and a brilliant option for anyone looking to do something different off the slopes.
Trapper Camp evening in Tignes Les Boisses
An evening experience in Tignes Les Boisses, by the dam, with fondue, génépi and a toboggan descent to finish. It is a great choice for groups looking for something more atmospheric than a standard dinner reservation.
A microlight flight offers a completely different perspective on Val d’Isère. Seeing the valley from above gives guests a new appreciation of the mountains, the pistes and the scale of the resort. It is not for everyone, but for those who do it, it is unforgettable.
In-chalet massage with MassageMe
After a full day on the mountain, an in-chalet deep-tissue massage is one of the easiest ways to recover. MassageMe sends therapists directly to the chalet, so there is no transfer, no changing room and no need to leave the warmth of the property.
Helicopter transfers
For guests looking to avoid busy transfer routes, helicopter transfers offer a faster and more seamless arrival experience. Our concierge team can arrange the details, turning the journey into part of the experience rather than something to endure.
Where to celebrate in Val d’Isère
One of Val d’Isère’s best-known après-ski spots. Folie Douce brings music, dancing and mountain views together in a way few places can match. Children’s masterclasses add another dimension for families, making it easier to enjoy the atmosphere together.
IMA, Le Piaf and La Baraque
Three of the key names for evenings out in Val d’Isère. Each offers something slightly different: IMA has become a popular choice for a stylish night out, Le Piaf draws a polished crowd, and La Baraque remains a favourite for those who want the evening to continue after dinner.
Every stay is unique. Our concierge team will tailor your experience to suit your group perfectly.