If this is going to be your first trip to Val d’Isere, then you are in for a real treat. Often thought of as one of France’s most charming ski resorts, you are guaranteed to have the time of your life. Although the slopes are a huge attraction, this little area with a population of just shy of 1,600 annual residents is as welcoming as it gets. Since there is much to do besides hitting the slopes, here are a few well-placed tips as you prepare for that long-awaited week in Val d’Isere.
Check Weather Forecasts Just Prior to Travelling
You have probably made your travel arrangements long ago so that you know the airport you will be flying into and may have even hired a vehicle for your use whilst there. You have booked your room in advance and now the only thing left to do is pack for the trip. Whether or not you’ve bought special clothes for your stay in the French Alps, what you pack may largely depend on the weather conditions for that specific week. Before you close up your luggage, get a thorough ‘snowcast’ so that you can pack all the items you are likely to need in the weather conditions being forecast on the ski-specific weather website, Piste Pro.
Line Up Attractions Prior to Embarking on Your Holiday
This doesn’t necessarily mean you will need to book ahead, but you will at least have some idea of the things you’d like to see and do during your week-long stay in Val d’Isere. Many of the activities are outdoors like:
- Dog sledding
- Rafting
- Snowmobiling
- Snowshoe hikes
…and so many more. However, if you are a foodie who loves to ski, don’t be surprised if you spend just as much time dining as you do skiing. When seeking the best restaurants after a long day on the slopes, you might want to ask the locals what they would recommend. Most of the cuisine is French and European, but there is a touch of Asian food as well. Don’t worry about calories though. You’ll be burning them off the next day once the skis are back on.
The Best Time to Arrive
If you haven’t booked your flight or accommodation yet, one thing you will want to know about winter holidays in Val d’Isere is that the beginning of December is the best time to arrive. This is because ski season isn’t yet in full swing and there isn’t likely to be as many people to tangle with. Whether you are a beginning or advanced skier, it’s nice to have a little room on the slopes and in the shops and restaurants as well. With that said, if you plan on arriving the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, you probably won’t find open reservations for this year. You might need to book a Christmas holiday in Val d’Isere a year or two out. That’s just how popular this Alpine resort truly is.
A Few Last-Minute Odds and Ends
Don’t forget to leave your contact information with a trusted family member or friend who will be watching your home while you are away. This way you won’t need to worry about your home. They will get in touch with you if an emergency should arise.
Also, you probably needn’t worry about carrying along too many toiletries. There are shops where you can buy everything from aftershave to toothpaste. Leave enough space in your luggage for the clothing you will need. Don’t forget to pack at least one semi-formal outfit for that lovely romantic dinner in a 5-star, full-service restaurant. You are about to embark on what promises to be one of the most amazing holidays of your life. Leave the worries behind and enjoy!
