Val Thorens
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Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe, located in the French Alps at 2300 meters altitude. This provide for a very long ski season with the ski infrastructure typically closing in early-middle May. Many of its slopes face north and north-west, providing for good snow conditions. This means that the slopes are not as sunny and thus the resort attracts a crowd more interested in skiing than "terracing".
While there is some evidence of pre-tourism structures and huts used while herding in the Alpine pastures, it is safe to say that Val Thorens is a purpose-built ski resort. Some of the original late- 70s and 80s architecture is being redecorated to provide a more alpine look. More recent constructions attempt to avoid any notion of modern architectural design and favor chalet style wooden structures. Lodging is mainly based on self-catering apartments.
Val Thorens is surrounded by several high peaks of near or over 3000m and a number of its cable cars and chair lifts go almost as high. The skiing is varied and offers something for all levels of ability. Ski schools provide instruction for children inside reserved areas.
While one can find people from the whole world visiting, Dutch, Belgian and German tourists seem to be the biggest fans. British skiers are also to be found as well as an increasing number of Russians. It does not appear to be a favorite resort for French skiers though.
Val Thorens is part of the 3 vallées ski domain which is connected with a common ski pass.
See also: list of ski areas
External links
- Official Val Thorens website [1] (http://www.valthorens.com/)
- Les Trois Vallées ski map [2] (http://www.valthorens.com/download/plan3v.pdf)
- Current snow and weather report [3] (http://www.snow-forecast.com/resorts/Val-Thorens.0to3top.shtml)de:Val Thorens