Holiday Velvet Travel Blog

Tuesday, January 16, 2007

ART: The Three Valleys

Skiers are spoiled for choice at The Three Valleys in the well known Savoie region of the French Alps. Imagine seven outstanding resorts, each with their own USP, in one of the world’s largest ski areas! The Trois Vallees or Three Valley region of France is one of the most famous skiing vacation destinations in Europe.

it is difficult to fault any of the resorts; Courchevel, Meribel, Les Menuires, La Tania, Orelle, Val Thorens or Brides-les-Bains. Orelle turned out to be the most convenient, as in addition to having its own ski area, the Gondola provides a quick access to ski areas of The Three Valleys.

Val Thorens is the highest resort, surrounded by six glaciers and offers outstanding opportunities for intermediate and advanced skiers. Meribel is a picturesque typical Savoyard resort with traditional chalets which was founded by a Brit and is still so popular with the Brits, that you hear more English than any other language here. Méribel's biggest advantage is its location at the heart of the Trois Vallées. Les Menuires may be less attractive but is the cheapest. La Tania is a peaceful haven in the middle of a forest.

Courchevel is the jewel of The Three Valleys, built on four levels. It is a popular resort with the jet set and has the most vibrant nightlife. Courchevel is extremely cosmopolitan and was among the first purpose built ski resorts in France. It is a multiple ski vacation resort built at four levels and some of the resorts are known by a number. They share the same ski area but differ from one another in every way. You can theres find something to suit most budgets and styles.

Courchevel 1850 is the highest, largest and most famous. It has an ambience of sophisticated chic that makes it a favorite with the Paris jet set. Courchevel Le Praz is a charming traditional village and Courchevel 1550 a family ski resort.

Brides-les-Bains is actually a spa resort with hot springs but one can go higher up to get to the ski areas.

The ski season at The Three Valleys runs from December to April and besides skiing, the seven resorts offer every kind of sport on and off the slope. There was ice-skating, snowshoeing, hang-gliding and parasailing. One can go bowling indoor swimming, wall-climbing, to cinemas, concerts and libraries.

The Savoyard villages nearby are charming and if shopping is your scene they sell wonderful regional produce and crafts. The baroque buildings add an interesting flavor.

Examples of The Three Valleys Accommodation on Holiday Velvet:

» Chalet Jonquille: La Tania Chalet, 8 bedrooms, from Euro 249
» Chalet Covie: Meribel Chalet, 5 bedrooms, from £249
» B&B Chalet Argent: Les Menuires B&B, up to 12 people, from £359

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