Tignes

Tignes boasts a vast and magnificent ski area shared with Val D’Isère, with the Grand Motte glacier’s underground funicular being officially part of Tignes. Although the glacier no longer offers year-round skiing, it remains open across all four seasons, amounting to nearly 10 months annually. For eight months, a vertical descent of 1,400 meters is maintained, with snow-making assistance if needed.

Tignes has five distinct base areas, with Val Claret as the main hub, alongside Le Lac and Le Lavachet. Further down lies Les Boisses and the revamped village of Les Brevieres, situated at the lowest point of the system at 1,550 meters (higher than many ski resorts). While nightlife may not be as extravagant as one might expect, there are plenty of spots for après-ski drinks, lively evenings with live music, or relaxed fireside gatherings.

The ski domain above the renowned resorts of Tignes and Val d’Isère is often considered among the world’s best, with some regulars declaring there’s no need to ski elsewhere. Previously named after local hero Jean-Claude Killy, a triple gold medalist at the 1968 Winter Olympics, this expansive area covers approximately 10,000 hectares and features 300 km of groomed pistes, extending over one of the planet’s largest lift-served verticals—more than 2,000 meters, all with high base village altitudes.

Tignes is celebrated for its outstanding freeriding terrain and world-class racing slopes, having hosted World Cup, World Championships, and Winter Olympic downhill races. However, it offers ample skiing for all skill levels, with well-designed nursery slopes, top-tier terrain parks for freestylers, and seemingly endless wide sunny blue and red pistes for holidaymakers. Both Tignes and Val d’Isère offer a world-class experience, complete with a diverse selection of bars, restaurants, shops, and accommodations ranging from budget-friendly to four-star in Tignes and up to ultra-luxurious in Val d’Isère.

The Ski Area

Famed for its remarkable freeriding opportunities and world-class racecourses. But the excitement extends beyond:

• Vast Terrain: Covering 10,000 hectares, Tignes provides over 300 km of groomed pistes suitable for all abilities.
• High Altitude: Base villages start at higher elevations than many ski resorts, ensuring excellent snow conditions throughout the season.
• Freestyle Parks: Home to top-notch terrain parks, perfect for freestylers honing their tricks.
• Family-Friendly: Well-designed nursery slopes make it ideal for families and beginners.

Non-Ski Activities

For those seeking a break from skiing, Tignes presents numerous alternatives:

• Ice Diving: Explore the underwater world beneath the frozen lake.
• Ice Climbing: Challenge yourself on frozen waterfalls.
• Snowshoeing: Discover Tignes’ beauty at a leisurely pace with guided snowshoe walks.
• Spa & Wellness: Rejuvenate in one of the many available spas.

Skiing with Beginners and Off-Piste Adventures

Tignes caters to all ski levels:

• Beginner-Friendly: Tignes offers excellent nursery slopes and gentle blue pistes for beginners to build confidence.
• Off-Piste: For the adventurous, Tignes boasts some of the best off-piste skiing globally. Be sure to hire a guide and check avalanche conditions.