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Discover Why Val Thorens Is A Favourite Resort For Families

If you are a skiing family that looks forward every year to a week spent on a mountain, have you ever been to Val Thorens? If not, read on to find out why this resort is a wonderful location for families with children, especially if you like staying in a catered chalet.

Val Thorens Centre

At first glance the centre of town can appear a lot more like a concrete jungle than a quaint ski resort, but if you choose a catered chalet, Val Thorens’ softer side becomes much more apparent. Closer to the slopes, near many of the small and attractive restaurants, and most importantly within a stone’s throw of the lift area and the runs down to the ski school, the centre of town offers the perfect location. It is informal, safe and full of families lapping up the atmosphere.

The Lifts

The lift system has been invested in on a big scale. Lifts are fast and very efficient in keeping queues small, which is a huge bonus when skiing with kids. There are lots of magic carpet lifts as well, and young kids, especially, love them. They are not as daunting as some lifts and are a really good confidence booster when it comes to getting back up the mountain.

Pistes

There are so many slopes perfect for young or new skiers. The beginner slopes and ski schools are all really accessible in the town centre and there are several easy options for skiing back into the resort, which is vital when you have tired children who may still be finding their ski legs. For more competent youngsters, the blue and red runs are long, wide and sweeping providing excellent scope for developing skills. Fun Slopes

One way to get kids’ confidence up is to distract them with some fun. The 900m fun slope full of cartoon hands all ready to be high fived is one option, but the Fight Ski Club is exciting too. Of course there is always the snow park as well, but this is recommended for more confident and slightly older children.

Mix it Up

Once your little ones have got their ski legs, they will more likely than not want to ski all day, but it is always good to throw in a little variety to keep them from getting stale. The Airbag, where novice jumpers and snowboarders shoot themselves into the air to land on an enormous soft pillow, makes for great entertainment. Or why not take them to the mini slalom course so they can practice their speed and their turns? Kids love a challenge!

The Luge

Another option for ditching the skis or boards is trying your hand at the most epic sledge ride you will ever encounter. The 6km downhill toboggan is the longest in Europe, and it’s a thrilling experience all the family can enjoy. Kids have to be over five and under 10s must be accompanied by an adult, but bearing in mind those restrictions, it is a brilliant family activity.

Off-Piste Activities

Occasionally you might want to take a break from the slopes and spend some time in the resort. On the doorstep of your catered chalet, Val Thorens has a host of activities on offer. The commercial centre has a sports centre and spa, leisure pool, trampolines and bouncy castles. There is also a bowling alley, ice rink, dog-sledding and lots, lots more. A week just isn’t enough to try everything!

The above is just a brief introduction to why this is such a great resort for families. There are many more reasons, including the fabulous eateries, the wonderful ski schools and the range of lovely catered chalets. Val Thorens is a welcoming and friendly place and one you will definitely want to return to. Book with a reputable operator and you will not be disappointed.

Author Plate

Tim Heal is the founder of Chaletline, a travel agency offering catered chalet accommodation in worldwide ski resorts. With an extensive knowledge of resorts and excellent post booking care, they pride themselves on the personal touch they offer to each and every client. If you're looking for a catered chalet, Val Thorens is just one of the superb ski resorts in which they can quickly and efficiently match you with the perfect accommodation. Catering for individuals, couples and groups up to 50, the knowledgeable Chaletline team will help you choose the right chalet in the right resort.