A guide to Val d'Isere ski area

The ski resort of Val d'Isere

With its world-class skiing, charming alpine village, and lively après scene, Val d’Isère is one of the most iconic resorts in the French Alps.  

From beginners finding their feet on gentle runs to experts tackling challenging off-piste descents, Val d’Isère offers something for everyone. Here’s a complete guide to the resort’s villages, layout, and piste maps - so you can make the most of your ski holiday in this exceptional section of the Tignes & Val d’Isere Ski Area.

The villages of Val d’Isère 

Val d’Isère combines traditional alpine charm with modern convenience. Its stone and wood buildings give it a timeless feel, while the efficient lift system connects every corner of the resort.  

Val d’Isère Centre 

• The heart of the resort and where most of the action happens. Val d’Isère Centre has a mix of lively après bars, stylish restaurants, and shops - all within easy reach of the main lifts. 
• From here, you can quickly access both the Solaise and Bellevarde sectors of the ski area. It’s a great base if you like having everything on your doorstep and easy access to the slopes. 

La Daille 

• Located at the entrance to the resort, La Daille offers ski-in/ski-out accommodation and quick access to the Bellevarde area.  
• It’s slightly quieter than the centre but still lively, with popular après spots such as La Folie Douce just above the village. Perfect if you want convenience and direct access to the slopes. 

Le Fornet 

• Tucked at the far end of the valley, Le Fornet is the most peaceful and picturesque part of Val d’Isère. The area feels authentically alpine, with beautiful chalets and views of the surrounding peaks.  
• The Le Fornet cable car takes you up towards the Pissaillas Glacier, offering some of the highest and most snow-sure skiing in the region. Ideal for those who prefer a quieter base and great access to high-altitude slopes. 

Exploring the Val d’Isère piste map 

Together with Tignes, Val d’Isère forms part of the Tignes–Val d’Isère ski area, with over 300 km of pistes and 75 lifts spanning both resorts.  

The Val d’Isère side offers a perfect mix of steep, exciting terrain and wide, confidence-building runs, making it one of the best all-round ski areas in France.

Beginner skiers 

Val d’Isère has made big improvements for beginners in recent years, with great nursery areas at the top of the Solaise gondola. The Solaise green runs are gentle, sunny, and perfect for building confidence. There are also designated beginner zones around the village base and ski school meeting points. 

Intermediate skiers 

Intermediates will find endless options here. Cruise the rolling blues and reds down from Solaise, or head towards Bellevarde for long, open runs and great snow. The Col de l’Iseran area is a must - high, scenic and quieter than the central slopes, with runs that link beautifully into Le Fornet. 

Advanced skiers and snowboarders 

Val d’Isère is a dream for advanced skiers. The famous Face de Bellevarde, used for World Cup downhill races, is steep and thrilling - one to tick off the list. There’s also outstanding off-piste terrain across the resort, particularly around the Cugnai and Vallon de la Sache sectors (recommended with a guide). For pure altitude and incredible views, ski up to the Pissaillas Glacier above Le Fornet.