Try out our favourite slopes in the 3 Vallées

Why do the 3 Vallées offer the finest slopes in the Alps?

With over 600 km of slopes, the 3 Vallées ski area is quite simply the largest ski area in the world.
But its size isn’t its only asset.

What really makes the difference:

• A unique variety of landscapes (forests, high mountains, glaciers)
• Optimal exposure guaranteeing excellent snow conditions all season long
• Smooth runs, even at the height of the holiday season
• Efficient ski lifts minimising waiting times

The result: everyone can find their ideal run, whatever their ability or style.

THE AGENCY’S FAVOURITES

Audrey – The Choucas run (Méribel – Cherferie)

What’s your favourite run?

I really like the Choucas run, in the Cherferie sector, in Méribel. Since the sector was fitted with a chairlift last year, skiers can rediscover this run more easily.
It offers slightly undulating terrain, a smoother final descent, and the snow is often excellent as it faces north!

Marie-Claude – Panorama & gentle skiing (Lac de Tuéda)

What’s your favourite run?

I don’t ski much and am more drawn to the views. I like to wander around Lac de Tuéda as it’s a very peaceful and relaxing spot. When I take the lifts, I use the Pas du Lac gondola to admire the view from the Pierres Plates terrace. The 360° view is magnificent, with Mont Blanc, the Grande Casse, the Gébroulaz Glacier and, in good weather, you can even see the Aiguilles d’Arve in Maurienne!

Galina – The Biollay run (Courchevel Altiport)

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SLOPE?

As I’m easing back into skiing, I prefer accessible, wide runs, such as the Biollay run in the Courchevel Altiport area. It’s wide, the snow is often good, and the view over the Bozel valley is stunning.
 

Alexis – Off-piste & forest (La Tania / Belleville)

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SLOPE?

I much prefer off-piste, which is far more enjoyable on a snowboard. There are so many options and they all have their own unique charm – to name just one, I went off-piste at Les Yvoses in the Belleville Valley and it was absolutely brilliant! That said, you need to take precautions or be accompanied by professionals.
When conditions are too dangerous or I don’t have enough time, I enjoy a good run in the Tania forest, on either side of the Folyères run: the snow stays fresh, it’s great fun and you’re never far from the piste if you start to tire!

Mariel – The Renard run (Méribel)

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SLOPE?

The Renard run, in the Altiport sector of Méribel. Taking the Burgin chairlift, you follow this beautiful run which descends beneath the Dent du Renard. It’s a fairly challenging red run but ideal for improving your skills as it’s not very busy.

Perrine – La Face (Méribel – 1992 Winter Olympics)

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SLOPE?

I really like La Face, in the Tougnète sector of Méribel. It’s the slope used for the women’s speed events at the 1992 Olympic Games: it’s steep but not very busy and offers a superb view of the Dent de Burgin.
When you see it from a distance, it’s impressive, but it’s actually quite manageable!
 

Steven – La Christine (Val Thorens)

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SLOPE?

It’s hard to pick just one as there are so many runs I love in the 3 Vallées!
Last year I discovered the red run Christine, in the Péclet sector, in Val Thorens. There weren’t many people there, it’s quite long and consistent, and the snow was excellent. It ends with a flatter section, ideal for a bit of carving! A lovely find!

WHICH SLOPE WOULD YOU RECOMMEND FOR THOSE WHO LOVE STEEP SLOPES?

As well as the off-piste couloirs (including the Tournier couloir), of which there are many in the 3 Vallées, there’s the Jean Blanc run in Courchevel. It starts at 1,850 metres and finishes at Le Praz, so it offers a good vertical drop. But be careful not to get caught out by the near-40% gradient, which can make you feel dizzy, especially as you have an unobstructed view across the whole of the Bozel valley!
Like many black runs, it is generally left ungroomed and can therefore be covered in bumps!

The best slopes for experienced skiers and lovers of steep slopes

In Les 3 Vallées, experienced skiers will find an exceptional playground, featuring legendary runs, long technical descents and wilder sections. The diversity of the ski area allows you to alternate between challenging slopes, natural snow and smooth skiing, without ever getting bored.

Among the must-visit runs, the Face piste in Méribel remains a benchmark. Used during the 1992 Winter Olympics, it impresses with its sustained gradient and spectacular views.

For those seeking an even greater challenge, the Jean Blanc in Courchevel is renowned for its very steep wall and often bumpy terrain, which puts even experienced skiers to the test.

Over in Méribel-Mottaret, the Bartavelle offers a more natural experience, often left ungroomed after snowfall, ideal for getting a taste of off-piste skiing whilst staying safe. Right next to it, the Lagopède offers a smoother skiing experience, with cold snow and moderate crowds.

Finally, in Val Thorens, the Christine run appeals with its length and consistency, perfect for linking turns at a good pace in snow that is often excellent thanks to the altitude.

Where to find the best powder in the 3 Vallées

The 3 Vallées are an exceptional playground for powder enthusiasts. Certain areas, such as La Riondaz in Les Menuires or Le Roc de Tougne in Méribel-Mottaret, offer ideal conditions after snowfall.

The key is to favour north-facing slopes and areas sheltered from the wind, where the snow retains its quality.

However, off-piste skiing requires constant vigilance. It is essential to be properly equipped (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe) and never to set off alone.

Family slopes: where to ski with children in the 3 Vallées

Families will also find plenty to enjoy in the 3 Vallées thanks to numerous specially designed play areas.

In Méribel, the Inuits run offers a fun and educational course. In Mottaret, the Yéti Park appeals with its child-friendly features. Finally, in Courchevel, the Indiens run immerses young and old alike in a unique canyon setting.

These areas allow you to learn whilst having fun, in a safe environment.

Freestyle and ski touring: recommended spots

Freestyle spots

In Les 3 Vallées, freestyle has a place of its own. Whether you’re a curious beginner or an experienced rider, several snowparks allow you to improve in a structured, safe and, above all, very fun environment.

The must-visit spot on the Méribel-Mottaret side remains the snowpark, easily accessible from the centre via the lifts. Its aspect ensures the snow remains in good condition, a key factor for practising in ideal conditions all day long.

The lines are designed to suit all levels: beginners can ease into it on small features, whilst more experienced riders can tackle rails, boxes and kickers with more challenging lines. The atmosphere is lively without being intimidating, making it an excellent place to improve.

In Méribel centre, the DC Area 43 is also a benchmark. More challenging, it attracts fans of technical freestyle with features that are regularly shaped and maintained. It’s the ideal spot to work on your tricks in a professional setting.

Finally, in Val Thorens, the snowparks benefit from high altitude, guaranteeing snow conditions that are often optimal. Riders will find varied terrain here, suited to both fun freestyle and more advanced riding.

Ski touring

For those wishing to get away from the hustle and bustle of the slopes, ski touring offers a completely different experience, one that is calmer and more immersive.

In the 3 Vallées, several secure routes allow you to get started or practise in good conditions. The most iconic is undoubtedly the PLUM route in Courchevel. It links the village of Le Praz to the Col de la Loze, with a vertical drop of around 1,000 metres. The ascent is gradual and perfectly signposted, making it an accessible route, even for a first-time experience.

The route is also known for hosting events such as the night-time ascent or the Millet, which attracts many enthusiasts every winter.

Over in Méribel-Mottaret, a dedicated route has been created above Le Hameau. More secluded, it allows you to enjoy a climb surrounded by nature, often in a very peaceful atmosphere, particularly early in the morning or at the end of the day.

And our BONUS run: the Campagnol, in the Mont Vallon sector!

To conclude, it would be hard not to mention the Campagnol run, in the Mont Vallon sector.

Here, the atmosphere is wilder, almost timeless. The snow is often exceptional and the sense of space is unrivalled. It is a run that encapsulates the spirit of the 3 Vallées all on its own.