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What You Need to Know About Alpe d’Huez
If you're heading to, or considering Les Menuires as the destination for your next Ski Adventure then here's what you need to know.
Check out our great deals on shared transfers all over the alps!
Destinations
Transfers
Val D’Isere is part of the famous Tignes and Val D’Isere region, also commonly referred to as Espace Killy in tribute to the legendary Olympic skier Jean Claude Killy.
Nestled in the heart of the Alps, it is surrounded by traditional wooden and stone chalets as well as high-end luxury hotels. It’s this combination that has seen it become an internationally renowned resort that sees thousands of visitors from around the world head to Val D’Isere on an annual basis.
Val D’Isere boasts endless pistes and limited queues even during peak holiday times. This is because the excellent Solaise Gondola can move up to 3,600 people an hour (all in comfort and style. There is even heating and WiFi!).
Plus, after a stunning day skiing the peaks, you can enjoy legendary, world-class Apres in one of the most charming and authentic villages in the Alps. You can experience a wide range of activities and nightlife, with free buses helping people get around all of the different villages.
Experience a wide range of activities and nightlife, using free buses to get around to each of the villages
As we’ve already highlighted, a Geneva to Val D’Isere transfer is undoubtedly the best way to travel to the resort. On average the transfer time is approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes depending on the weather conditions on the day of travel.
When booking a Geneva to Val D’Isere transfer, the biggest decision you will need to make is whether to opt for a private or shared transfer. At Alpine Fleet, both options are on offer and we’ll go into further details regarding what they involve in the sections below.
One of the most popular types of transfers you can get is a shared transfer from Geneva to Val D’Isere.
We have a high frequency shuttle service that frequently moves between the two locations, which offers excellent value for money. We have two types of shared transfer services.
This is the best value shared transfer we offer. With this option, you will be dropped off / collected from one of our fixed points.
Our fixed point shared transfer service will see you board a Geneva to Val D’Isere transfer bus that also stops at Bourg St Maurice for those connecting to nearby ski resorts. The service then continues onwards to La Daille and, of course, Val D’Isere. We cover the popular hotels, bus stops, tourist offices and other hot spots in the resort.
We provide multiple fixed drop-offs and collection points that will be agreed upon prior to the start of the journey. By offering such a vast array of stops, it ensures the trip is affordable and efficient for your skiing holiday. Take a look at our map below for a full list of stops on our line.
We also offer a door to door service. This offering follows the same route as the one outlined above, but includes an additional last-minute minivan that will take you directly to the door of your accommodation. This is especially beneficial if your hotel is located down a narrow or difficult-to-access road.
In contrast, Alpine Fleet also offers a Geneva to Val D’Isere private transfer option.
A Geneva to Val D’Isere private transfer will see you and your party receive exclusive access to a vehicle, as opposed to sharing it with a wider group.
The process is extremely straightforward. Once you arrive, your driver will be ready and waiting to take you to the resort. You will then be driven directly to your accommodation no matter where it is located in Val D’Isere.
With our private transfer service, you can choose between a standard trip or upgrade to our premium service for a truly incredible start to your holiday.
Geneva airport transfers to Val D’Isere offer a wide range of benefits, and the journey between the two locations is the quickest way to get to and from the resort with an estimated travel time of around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
While Geneva is the most efficient airport to fly into, if it’s not feasible or practical for you for whatever reason, then we also offer transfers from alternatives.
We provide shared and private transfers from Lyon, Grenoble and Chambery. No matter what airport you arrive in, our driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals area.
Val D'Isere Airport Transfers, Distance & Transfer Times | ||
Geneva Airport to Val D'Isere | 179km | 3h 30m |
Chambery Airport to Val D'Isere | 144km | 3h 15m |
Lyon Airport to Val D'Isere | 224km | 3h 45m |
As well as seamlessly getting you to the resort, at Alpine Fleet we will also take you from Val D’Isere to Geneva at the end of your holiday.
Our Val D’Isere to Geneva transfers work similarly to the first part of your journey, with shared and private options available. Just like the first trip, a Val D’Isere to Geneva transfer offers convenience, efficiency, comfort and reliable service that can be flexibly catered specifically to your needs and ensure the end of your holiday is as stress-free as possible.
Val D’Isere is one of the top ski resorts in Europe and is world-renowned for its lively apres, stunning Alpine Village feel and amazing ski adventures and memories to be created.
During Christmas week, Val D’Isere is without a doubt one of the most magical places outside the North Pole for adults and children alike. In the town centre, there are Elves’ workshops where children join in and make decorations with the elves and await Santa’s arrival on the night before Christmas here in town. The main square is decorated and full of Christmas magic and a time not to be missed with the family.
A fabulous party week is on 16th to 25th March 2025 where over 1000 students descend to Val D’Isere for the Altigliss Gem Challenge Event aka the Ski & Snowboard Students World Cup. The students from all around the world will undertake ski, board and mountain challenges and also add even more buzz throughout the village during this week.
A great favourite on the mountain is the Bar de l’Ouillette Restaurant, Val d’Isère. Here you can grab a bite from the tasty self-service bar from salads to pizza or just maybe a cheeky dessert & sit back and enjoy the stunning views from the panoramic balcony. After an amazing day on the mountain, you can enjoy some lively pumping party vibes at the the original “La Folie Douce” (created in 1974). Located at the top of the La Daille lift, you will enjoy plenty of Bubbles or beers and pumping music by local and international DJs.
French cakes and pastries are renowned all over the world and we didn’t think it could get even better, however in Val D’Isere you must stop in a visit the pasty chef Patrick Chevallot. He was voted the best pastry chef in 1993 in the whole of France! Cakes, chocolate, Ice cream and so many goodies at Chevallot House but our favourite is a gâteau l’Ancolie – created by Patrick and unique to Val D’Isere.
Our airport transfers to Val D’Isere come with a host of benefits to ensure that those travelling to the resort with Alpine Fleet have a stress free and and enjoyable start to their skiing holiday.
The below are just a few:
Our airport reps will be waiting for you at the Alpine Fleet desk. Our staff will check you in and guide you to your transfer and can help with any questions you may have.
It’s a reassuring way to start your transfer from Geneva Airport. We even have priority parking at Geneva Airport so our vehicles are very close to access.
Our professional airport transfer services always operate with punctuality and reliability in mind. Our call centre operates 24/7 in winter so we can always be reached.
All clients travelling to and from Les Deux Alpes will receive an SMS concerning their pick-up times the night before travel. Having a transfer already booked eliminates the stress and worry of having to find transport at the last minute.
All of our airport transfer vehicles are well-maintained and comfortable, providing you with a relaxing environment after a long flight.
Our coaches to Val d’Isere have excellent leg room, toilets on board, and room for all your luggage and skis which is sometimes not the case with smaller minivans that can be cramped and uncomfortable.
Of course, you don’t have to make use of a Geneva to Val D’Isere transfer. Public transport is available but can be unreliable. You first would need to prebook your train from Geneve Airport and then arrive to Bourg Saint Maurice Station. Here you then can use local buses or taxis to reach the resort of Val D’Isere
Alternatively, car hire services are available however but this will require you to drive the vehicle yourself. The mountain roads in the Alps can be challenging and sometimes treacherous, so it’s always safer to opt for a transfer with an experienced driver behind the wheel.
Val D’Isere is located in one of the most popular ski regions in the Alps, and it is not the only resort in the region. Tignes is next door neighbour to Val D’Isere, so any trip there can see you take in two stunning resorts all in one place.
There are 150 km of pistes in Val d’Isere alone, but when combined with the neighbouring resort – Tignes – the region has access to 300 km of pistes in total, which is great news for skiers and snowboarders.
To further add to this resort’s attractiveness, the highest point reaches an altitude of 3,455 m. Furthermore, Val d’Isere never disappoints snow-sureness-wise, being one of the resorts with the best snow record in Europe.
There are three sections dividing the skiing area of the resort: Solaise, Bellvarde, and Fornet. All sectors offer runs of all difficulties, but in particular challenging black runs, if you are in for a challenge.
If you are planning on making a trip to Val d’Isere, Alpine Fleet is here to help.
We provide leading airport transfers, with effortless booking, from Geneva Airport to a whole host of ski resorts in the Alps including Val d’Isere. This includes private transfers which can cater just for you and your party, as well as shared transfers which take large groups directly from the airport to the resort on a regular basis.
If you want more information on how to get to Val d’Isere, check out our previous blog post on the topic. Plus, for a full guide on what to expect from skiing in Val d’Isere, we’ve got you covered here, too, with another article on exactly that.
To find out more about what we do and to begin planning your Val d’Isere ski holiday, contact Alpine Fleet today.
Geneva Airport to Val d'Isere Journey Time: 4hr 15mins
Private Transfers All year Round
Winter Shared Transfers: From 16 Dec 2023 to 7 Apr 2024
Let’s start with identifying exactly where Val d’Isere is located.
The ski resort can be found in the French Alps and close to the Italian border. It makes up one-half of the world-famous Espace Killy ski area which is regarded as one of the greatest skiing areas, not just in the Alps, but in the entire world.
Along with the neighbouring resort of Tignes, Val d’Isere covers a vast area with significant terrain to explore. In fact, there are more than 10,000 hectares to explore and you can enjoy the breathtaking views on offer from the two glaciers of Le Pissaillas and La Grande Motte.
Standing at a stunning 6,000 feet, or 1,850m, Val d’Isere is well known as one of the highest resorts in Europe. While altitude is not the be-all and end-all, it is often an important consideration when people are deciding on a resort.
This also means you will be treated to some of the most stunning views in the Alps, and there are 96 ski lifts at the resort that can get you to these great heights. The average skiing height at Val d’Isere is greater than many of the other popular ski resorts that can be found in the Alps.
Val d’Isere has one of the greatest snow records in the whole of Europe. On average, it experiences around 450 centimetres each year and this is added to by over 300 snow cannons and guns that contribute to the natural snow.
Not only does Val d’Isere receive a high level of snow due to the natural Atlantic depressions that occur across French ski resorts, it also gets a significant amount from the Mediterranan low pressures which drops a lot of snow on the Italian resorts. And as Val d’Isere is close to the Italian border, it benefits from this.
This is great news for visitors, as having a good level of snow is undoubtedly a key requirement for all guests to ski resorts. However, it’s worth noting, that this high level of snow fall also contributes to extremely cold temperatures, especially during the winter months of November and December.
Despite being based in France and close to the border with Italy, the best way to get to Val d’Isere is to actually fly into Switzerland at Geneva Airport. This is because it takes less than three hours to get from the airport to Val d’Isere.
While cars can be hired and driven to the resort, we would always recommend getting an airport transfer. This is because the mountain roads can be treacherous and challenging if you are not used to them, and after your flight, it’s perhaps not the most relaxing activity.
Instead, airport transfers will get you to and from the resort without you having to worry about a thing. Instead of navigating unfamiliar roads in, sometimes, difficult conditions, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the mountain views.
Private transfers will take you and your group to the resort in a private vehicle, whereas shared transfers are also available that take larger groups. Whatever option you prefer, Alpine Fleet can cater for all of your requirements.
Alternatively, visitors to Val d’Isere can reach the resort by shuttle, taxi, or rental car from a few airports; Geneva, Lyon, Grenoble and Chambery. We offer regular private and shared transfers from both airports.
The prime skiing season in Val d’Isere typically runs from late November to early May, with peak conditions usually found during the winter months.
If you’re travelling with family, it’s important to check whether your chosen ski resort is family-friendly.
Val d’Isere is the perfect mountain resort for spending time with your nearest and dearest, As well as the fresh air and varied ski slopes, there are also a number of family activities you can get involved with, especially if you have children.
There are several kid-friendly slopes and ski schools that can get your little ones out enjoying the slopes, as well as indoor activities like swimming pools, a sports hall, a climbing hall and even a play barn that comes equipped with toys and games like table football.
Val d’Isere is also Famille Plus certified, demonstrating the resort’s family commitment.
As one of the most extensive ski resorts in the Alps, there is plenty for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced skier, Val d’Isere has something for everyone which makes it perfect for beginners.
There are 20 green ski runs to enjoy, and these are the ones that are considered the best for beginners. Once you’ve mastered these then you can move on to any of the 67 blue runs that Val d’Isere has to offer, and if you’re with someone who is more experienced then there are also 40 red and 26 black runs.
Plus, there are numerous ski schools that are hosted by some of the best ski instructors in the world who can help you to master the basics.
Val d’Isere has several reputable ski schools catering to all skill levels. Visitors can enrol in lessons for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers, providing professional instruction and guidance to enhance their skiing experience. – We proudly recommend Evolution2 for all your ski school and ski activities while visiting the alps.
Val d’Isere offers a variety of activities for non-skiers, from excellent spa facilities where visitors can indulge in massages and saunas to guided snowshoe tours and a vibrant apres-ski scene with numerous bars, and restaurants. With such diverse options, Val d’Isere ensures there’s something enjoyable for everyone.
Val d’Isere provides childcare services and ski schools tailored for children, ensuring a family-friendly environment for those travelling with children.
Val d’Isere offers a diverse selection of accommodations, encompassing hotels, chalets, and apartments, designed to meet a variety of budgets and preferences, ensuring a perfect and enjoyable stay for all visitors.
Ski equipment rental is readily available in Val d’Isere, with numerous shops offering a variety of gear for skiers and snowboarders, including options for different skill levels. We suggest Skiset, our ski equipment partner offering 50% off ski equipment rental for all our customers
Ski passes for Val d’Isere can be purchased online or at the resort. Various pass options are available, including day passes, multi-day passes, and season passes.
Val d’Isere typically receives substantial snowfall, with an average of over five metres of snow per season, ensuring excellent skiing conditions throughout the winter.
Val d’Isere hosts cultural events, art exhibitions, and workshops, providing visitors with opportunities to engage in diverse activities beyond winter sports.
One of the biggest benefits of visiting Val d’Isere is that you get two resorts in one. That’s because the beautiful resort of Tignes is not far away, and can be easily visited during your trip.
Most ski passes will grant you access to both resorts, so in the unlikely event that you get bored with what Val d’Isere is offering, you can pop next door to experience the range of slopes at Tignes. There are even chairlifts that will take you between the two.
When heading to Val d’Isere you would be best to fly into either Geneva or Lyon Airport.
Val d’Isere doesn’t have a train station itself. The closest train station is Bourg St Maurice SNCF which has trains arriving from Paris, Geneva, Lyon and many other locations. From here you can use local buses to reach the ski resort of Val d’Isere
The transfer journey from Geneva to Val d’Isere can be as quick as 2 hours and 55 minutes when there is no traffic, however it can take up to 4 hours and 15 mins during peak times.
Both Val d’Isere and Courchevel are known as luxury resorts, depending on the level of luxuriousness you after tends to sway you to one or the other.
Courchevel has many more Michelin stars restaurants as well as high end hotels and chalets at Courchevel 1850. For authentic alpine charm though, Val d’Isere is the destination to be at out of the two and is best described as a box of chocolates due to the variety of everything on offer within the resort.
Val d’Isere can be expensive, and travelling to this resort wouldn’t be recommended if you are on a budget as it’s one of the most expensive resorts in the French alps.
Val d’Isere is more expensive than other resorts due to its popularity – it’s a world renowned resort for skiing, apres and fun. If you are planning to head to Val d’Isere on a budget, your best bet is to organise things in advance to get the best deals possible.
It was one of the first resorts in the french alps to quickly grow in popularity as a world class resort that has traditional authentic charm in the villages, amazing skiing and snow sure conditions and lets not forget the apes scene here it’s incredible.
Val d’Isere and Tignes are both evenly matched when it comes to snow conditions and fun.
Tignes has more apartment style accommodation and is a purpose built resort making it more affordable, whereas Val d’Isere is known for more it expensive accommodations; hotels and chalet, as well as the famous apres scene at the original La Folie Douce
For the powder hounds among us – The best time to ski Val d’Isere is between late December to early February due to the weather and fresh powder on the slope allowing you to enjoy some great piste and off piste skiing.
March through April however are also good choice months with spring snow and sunny days to be had.
Due to the altitude of the resort, Val d’Isere ski seasons tends to be longer than other resorts.
Val d’Isere is a snow sure resort and typically see great coverage from early December right through to the end of April and often early May.
The first hotel in Val d’Isere opened in 1888, it wasn’t until 1929 it really started to come together through the passion and hard work of three men Jacques Moufflier – a Parisan who fell in love with the Val d’Isere, Charles Diebold an Alsace ski instructor and Nicolas Bazille the Mayor at the time.
February half term is one of the busiest times in Val d’Isere, however with the commitment to constantly improving ski infrastructure like ski lifts and gondolas are helping to improve the resort dramatically.
Val d’Isere shares the ski resort area with Tignes, so you can ski in both when you visit either resort. The wider area comprises of about 90 lifts total, with a mix of funiculars, cable cars, gondolas, chair lifts and button lifts.
The ski lifts usually close around 16.30 local time as it starts to get dark. However, we always advise you to check the times at the main station before you set off on a day of skiing adventures.
Sadly, like more and more ski resorts, there is no free parking in Val d’Isere. If you’re planning to drive, then make sure your accommodation has parking included.
The most convenient way to reach your ski resort! Choose from a standard or luxury private transfer. Start your vacation in style!