Val Thorens review: Why Europe’s highest ski resort is anything but soulless

Val Thorens, Europe’s highest ski resort, is often accused of being "soulless" due to its relatively recent establishment in 1971. However, the resort has been around for a long time, making it a home for the first generation of residents now entering retirement. One such resident, Aurélie Rey, runs a local restaurant and is quick to point out that the food there is anything but soulless.

The main square, Place Caron, offers an authentic people-watching experience, with a lively mix of skiers, partiers, and those who simply enjoy the town's vibrant atmosphere. Val Thorens attracts a diverse crowd of international visitors, including those who come for the skiing, music festivals, and nightlife, as well as those who simply appreciate the resort's lively, functional town vibe.

The resort boasts numerous five-star hotels, perfect for those seeking a more luxurious experience, but also offers a wide range of accommodations that cater to all tastes. Val Thorens is renowned for its extensive ski area, guaranteeing consistent snow coverage, and provides easy access to Les 3 Vallées, the world's largest ski resort, through a single pass.

This resort has been voted the world’s best ski resort ten times in the last thirteen years, demonstrating its exceptional appeal for both skiers and non-skiers alike. Accommodations such as Hôtel Le Fitz Roy provide a blend of elegance and comfort, with ski-in/ski-out access, delicious local cuisine, a spa, and a terrace on Place Caron.

For a more elevated dining experience, the Caron 3200 restaurant offers breathtaking views and an impressive menu, while the nearby La Chaumière and Le Rooftop provide cozy, authentic French dining options to complement the lively nightlife scene.