The resorts of the future are those resorts which take in to consideration environmental protection. In Val Thorens Ski Resort in France, the organization of traffic is done in such a way that both the environment and tourists' safety are taken care of. The resort is also known as "The Car Free Resort" - parking is compulsory in restricted areas and there are free shuttles to the hotels and other accommodation. There are 3500 parking places. The slopes of Val Thorens are north and north-west, which guarantees the most desirable snow conditions.
Val Thorens village is so close to the ski runs, that you can enter one of the cozy cafes without even taking off your ski shoes. This resort is famous for being the highest in Europe (at 2300 m), so don't be surprised to see hotels directly on the slopes. Val Thorens is part of the complex of The Three Valleys - the largest ski area in the world! Near it is the summit of the valleys known as "Epaule de Bouchet" (3230 m). Regardless of your level as a skier, you will find plenty of diverse opportunities to practice the King of Winter Sports - in the area of the Three Valleys there are 56 green, 120 blue, 115 red and 37 black pistes. That includes 600 kilometers of pistes, 200 ski lifts and 25 peaks. If all these numbers overwhelm you, just remember that at Val Thorens from the "Cime de Caron" among others, you have a direct access to the largest panoramic scenery in the Alps: more than 1000 peaks are in front of you if you turn through 360 degrees. The altitude of the resort guarantees snow coverage from November to mid-May. The average snow cover is about 10 meters.
It is not surprising that the main cuisine in Val Thorens is French. Many restaurants also offer Savoyard specialities (tartiflette, fondue, raclette.), whilst Irish and Dutch pubs contribute to the international flavour of the place.
It is probably most correct to say that Val Thorens is a purpose-built ski resort. Some of the original late- 70s and 80s buildings are being redecorated to provide a more Alpine look. More recent constructions attempt to avoid any notion of modern architectural design and favour chalet style wooden structures. Lodging is mainly based on self-catering apartments.
Many ski-schools provide tutoring for children inside reserved areas.
Recent research on the popularity of the ski resort shows that it is preferred mainly by the Dutch, Belgians and Germans, also Russians are increasingly interested in Val Thorens. Strangely enough though, the French people do not mention it as one of their favourite ski-sites.
Figures and numbers are important to know, but what is even more important is their interpretation. From all we understand about that picturesque place, Val Thorens offers you a perfectly organized infrastructure, diversity, and above all, which is the most important - wonderful conditions for practising your favourite winter sport.