Valmeinier

The small traditional farming village of Valmeinier (known as 1500) and its not unattractive purpose-built, and indeed carefully thought out, off-shoot at 1800m were lift-linked to Valloire in 1974. The resort is a fraction of the size of some of the Alpine giants that neighbour it, giving it an intimate and relaxed feel for most guests. The Valmeinier - Valloire area is largely a recreational holiday destination, but if you want some tough off-piste terrain that's off the beaten track too, it's here to be found.

Details: Written by: Jim Walker; Last Updated: 20 Aug 2012

Small traditional village linked into the huge Valloire ski region since 1974. Purpose built off shoot at 1800m (same name). Good snow record compared to other resorts on the same latitude.

Mountain

Lift linked to somewhat better known Valloire in the Maurienne Valley, Valmeinier 's skiing takes in three sectors of roughly equal size, totalling 150km (93 miles) of runs served by more than 30 lifts. Trails for all standards include wide blue and red 'motorways' and tougher descents such as the excellent JMB down towards Valloire or the mogul field above Valmeinier 1500. Advance skiers will also enjoy the Cascade and Olympique pistes, two of the six blacks in the area. For freeriders, Valmeinier offers an off-piste area over four sides of the Gros Crey and Crey du Quart mountains. Skiers looking for more tough skiing can consider a day trip to Karellis (less than an hour away) or even to the famous Trois Valleys which is linked from Orelle to Val Thorens by what was until recently the world's longest gondola lift. A heliskiing trip over to Italy is another possibility.

Eating Out

Le Panoramic, up at 2,400 metres lives up to its name and is a good place to stop and enjoy the view whilst enjoying some good local scoff. The lower Gros Crey establishment at 2,200 tends to attract more of the hardcore skiers and boarders. In resort there are half a dozen choices at the altitude complex including L' Elan which offers a rustic atmosphere in which to refuel. L'Estaminet is another option. There are just a couple more down in the old village.

Apres

Most of the nightlife is based up on the mountain at the Valmeinier 1800 where there half a dozen bars. Le Dannebrog and No Comment are both good bars and later on the only disco, Le Brasilia, opens up. In the traditional village La Taverne is the only true drinkers establishment! The tourist office also organise fun events several times a week. A new bowling alley has recently been added, as well as a new venue for music concerts.