Val Thorens - Orelle

Val Thorens is a renowned ski resort located in the Tarentaise Valley, in the French Alps. It is part of the Three Valleys ski area, the largest interconnected ski domain in the world. 

Val Thorens itself sits at an impressive altitude of 2,300 meters (7,545 feet), making it the highest ski resort in Europe, hence the resort is known for its excellent snow conditions and extensive ski terrain. 

It is a purpose-built ski resort, designed specifically with skiing in mind. 

The resort's history dates back to the 1960s when development began to transform the area into a ski paradise. Unlike traditional alpine villages, Val Thorens features modern architecture and a compact layout that provides convenient access to the slopes with ski-in, ski-out access, allowing skiers to easily navigate the resort without the need for additional transportation available throughout. 

When it comes to après-ski, Val Thorens is known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere. The resort boasts a wide range of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, catering to visitors looking to relax and socialize after a day on the slopes. Popular venues include La Folie Douce, a lively après-ski spot with live music and entertainment, as well as various mountain restaurants that offer stunning panoramic views along with delicious food and drinks. 

Orelle

Orelle is a small village located just a few kilometers away, on the valley floor over the ridge from Val Thorens, and it serves as a gateway to the Three Valleys. 

From Orelle, skiers can take the Orelle gondola, which provides direct access to the local ski slopes in 15 min, then a short chairlift takes you over the ridge to the slopes of of Val Thorens. This connection opens up additional ski opportunities and allows visitors to explore the vast Three Valleys ski area. It actually sits in a 4th Valley, the same one from which you can access Les Sybelles, Valmeinier, Valloire and Valfrejus - its a key valley route to Modane and allows for almost direct access by train. 

Orelle offers a tranquil and authentic village ambiance with charming Alpine architecture.

This is a resort to visit if your focus is on the skiing and quiet, quality time with your friends and family. 

There's only one small bar at the bottom of the return Gondola and 2 resturants. The resort is split up into small developments of accomodation on winding roads up the mountain, you wont be spending time wandering around taking in the ambience of the town. 

Access is best if you own a car, there's a small store in resort but you're best suited to go to one of the larger supermarkets down the valley and stock up for your self catering break eg. Carrefour Market Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne.

The shuttle between hamlets and the gondola is TBC in 2023/14 season.