Which is the largest ski area in the world?

When it comes to skiing, one question always comes up: which is the world’s largest ski area? The answer lies in the heart of the French Alps: les 3 Vallées. With 600 kilometres of doorstop ski runs, these mountains form a unique playground. Méribel, Courchevel, Val Thorens, Les Menuires and Orelle make up this exceptional area.

An unparalleled ski area

With 600km of marked runs that are seamlessly interlinked, Les 3 Vallées is an unrivalled ski area. This vast ski area caters for everyone: beginners, families, experts and freeride fanatics. Everyone will find their favourite type of skiing here.

The high altitude of the area ensures optimum snow cover, with 85% of runs above 1,800 m. The 2,700 snow cannon spread throughout the area guarantee consistent snow quality throughout the season.

The infrastructure is as exceptional as the ski area. The 161 ski lifts are among the fastest and most comfortable in the world. They reduce queueing and maximise your time on the slopes.

The pistes - varied and iconic - are part of the DNA of les 3 Vallées. From gentle greens to testing blacks, each valley has its own unmissable runs: blues for progressing, panoramic reds for enjoyment of the mountain scenery, and blacks for the most experienced skiers. The range of sensations on offer is endless.

Finally, safety is a top priority. Grooming and rescue teams are on duty day and night to ensure that every morning the pistes are perfectly prepared and safe. In this way, every skier can enjoy the mountains with complete peace of mind.

Méribel, heart of the 3 Vallées

At the geographical centre of the ski area, Méribel occupies a special place. Its elegant architecture, wood and stone chalets and friendly atmosphere make it an iconic resort.

All the other resorts are within easy reach of Méribel, making it the ideal starting point for exploring the entire ski area. The resort also boasts a rich programme of sporting fixtures, cultural events and a wide variety of activities throughout the season, offering memorable experiences for all its visitors.

Activities for everyone

Les 3 Vallées is not just about skiing. The area offers a multitude of non-ski activities to add variety to your enjoyment:

  • Sledging: from the Cosmojet in Val Thorens (6km) to the Mission Black Forest in Méribel (3.4km), the numerous toboggan runs offer fun and thrills;

  • Snowshoeing: marked trails wind through forests and over snowy mountain pastures;

  • Dog sledding, paragliding, zip lines and even fat biking on snow: there’s a whole host of new experiences to try;

  • Well-being: spas, swimming pools and aquatic areas offer relaxation after an action-packed day;

Each resort has developed its own range of facilities to appeal to skiers and non-skiers alike.

Gastronomy and mountain restaurants

It's well known that skiing gives you an appetite. Les 3 Vallées offer an incredible diversity of restaurants. From traditional chalets to Michelin-starred restaurants, the culinary experience is as delightful as the scenery:

  • High altitude restaurants offer panoramic terraces and Savoyard specialities;

  • Fine-dining restaurants created by Michelin-starred chefs offer an elegant experience;

  • Bars and cafés welcome skiers for a sociable break.

Here, gastronomy is an integral part of the holiday. Enjoying a fondue after a ski run or savouring a Michelin-starred dish while admiring the peaks: this is another way to experience the world's largest ski area.

Events throughout the winter

Les 3 Vallées also hosts numerous events. Each week features a different selection of events:

  • International competitions: Val Thorens regularly hosts ski cross and snowboard events, while Méribel showcases downhill skiing on the legendary Roc de Fer piste.

  • Festivals and concerts: one-off events are held in all the resorts;

  • Local entertainment: torch-lit descents, themed evenings and Christmas markets all add to the festive atmosphere.

Les 3 Vallées is much more than just the largest ski area in the world. With 600km of pistes, guaranteed snow and modern facilities, it offers a unique experience. In Méribel, Courchevel, Val Thorens or Les Menuires, every holiday is an adventure. With skiing and activities, gastronomy and exciting events, there's something to delight everyone.

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