Good news for lovers of snow-covered mountains: the Val Thorens ski area is officially set to open on Saturday 21 November 2026! A new season that promises plenty of skiing, events and wonderful discoveries. And already, the first snowflakes are here to blanket the resort at an altitude of 2,300 metres!
The countdown has begun! In a few weeks’ time, the first ski lifts will resume operation and skiers will be able to hit the slopes of Val Thorens-Orelle once more. Thanks to its exceptional altitude and a ski area largely situated above 2,000 metres, Val Thorens enjoys conditions that are particularly favourable for a long winter season.
Once again this year, ski enthusiasts will be able to enjoy more than five months of skiing, right up until early May 2027. Dates are subject to weather and snow conditions.
In Val Thorens, October is always a month of transition: temperatures are falling, the peaks are gradually taking on their winter colours and the resort is preparing to welcome its first skiers.
The first snowfalls have arrived, and the whole team is delighted! The coming weeks will be crucial for the build-up of the snowpack. To follow the latest conditions, snow depths and upcoming snowfalls in real time, visit the official Val Thorens snow report.
There’s always something happening in Val Thorens! The start of the season promises to be festive and action-packed, with community-building events in November and December.
On 21 and 22 November 2026, Val Thorens invites you to La Grande Première, its iconic opening event.
On the programme: exploring the first slopes, free equipment trials with over 50 brands, introductory sessions, live music, DJ sets, film screenings, a one-man show and a festive atmosphere on Place Caron.
The Val Thorens Sports Club is organising the 14th edition of the FIS Ski Cross World Cup. Three days of competitions to follow.
A wide range of skiing and après-ski activities are on offer, including: ski and snowboard equipment trials, DJs, freestyle contests, film screenings and fun activities for everyone.
Every winter, Val Thorens reinvents itself to offer new experiences to its visitors. This season, the resort has several wonderful surprises in store, whether on the slopes, at higher altitudes or in the heart of the village.
Please do vote for Val Thorens to win the title of ‘World’s Best Ski Resort’ at the 2026 World Ski Awards. Take part here: https://worldskiawards.com/vote/val-thorens-2026
Perched at an altitude of 3,200 metres, the Cime Caron offers spectacular panoramic views of the Alps; it is an unmissable stop for skiers and walkers alike. A new venue for dining and entertainment has opened at the cable car station: a panoramic restaurant, a wine bar, a rooftop terrace, a shop and play areas (treasure hunts, virtual reality, etc.)
The Mountain Kart Xperience promises a unique thrill with go-karting on snow, whilst the famous Cosmojet toboggan run invites young and old alike to hurtle down its 5-kilometre run – the longest toboggan run in France. Adrenaline seekers can also enjoy the La Bee zip line, for a 1,800-metre-long aerial adventure above the ski area.
Plenty to keep things interesting between days on the slopes and create new memories with family or friends.
With its 600 kilometres of interconnected slopes accessible directly from the slopes, Les 3 Vallées continues to enhance skiers’ comfort and experience. For the 2026–2027 winter season, several developments have been announced across the ski area:
- In Val Thorens, a second autonomous drone has been introduced to bolster surveillance and support for safety teams in off-piste areas.
- In Orelle, a new ski-touring route, La Trace du Loup, offers an ascent of around 650 metres for intermediate skiers.
- In Méribel-Mottaret, the Châtelet chairlift is back in service and the Niverolle run is undergoing improvements to enhance the skiing experience.
- In Courchevel-La Tania, the gondola lift is being modernised with 52 new eight-seater cabins.
Winter in Val Thorens is also about the pleasure of gathering round a good meal after a day in the great outdoors. This season, several new venues are enriching the resort’s gastronomic offering: Le Bouchon Alpin showcases specialities from Lyon and Savoie, whilst Le Neva offers contemporary French cuisine inspired by seasonal produce. Coffee lovers can discover Zig Zag Café, billed as Val Thorens’ first coffee shop.
So many new places to savour the mountain lifestyle, combining a warm, friendly atmosphere, fine dining and relaxation.
The opening is fast approaching and it’s already time to start thinking about your next mountain holiday! We can’t wait to welcome you back for this new season! Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you’re looking for a holiday rental in Val Thorens, for a stay right next to the slopes and all the resort’s excitement. Are you planning to buy a flat in Val Thorens? Please don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Whether it’s a cosy flat for two, a family home or a spacious flat for a holiday with friends: all you have to do is choose your dates and pack your bags.
See you on 21 November 2026 for the first runs of the winter!
