A wonderful winter holiday resort and a very popular skiing destination, Val Thorens is also a haven for food lovers. There are more than 60 fine dining restaurants here and this charming village has become known as the home of ‘snow bistronomy’.
What could be more relaxing, and indeed romantic, than enjoying a delicious dining experience in front of a roaring fire in the comfort of a chalet-style gourmet restaurant? As the snow falls outside and the moonlight glistens on the mountains, you could be in foodie heaven…
Food for Thought in Val Thorens
Lunchtime
So important when you are on the slopes for a long day skiing, lunch has to be substantial. There are eleven mountain restaurants on the pistes surrounding the resort, all offering a wide variety of excellent food. From doorstep sandwiches to Michelin-starred meals, you can take your pick.
Teatime
Traditional mulled wine is served in just about every bar in resort and I can highly recommend it! It’s a really lovely way to finish off the skiing day.
Dinnertime
Dinnertime is an exciting time when you are in Val Thorens. With so much choice you might find yourself tucking into a Savoyarde special in a secluded mountain restaurant, or indulging in a fine dining menu at one of the more upmarket establishments. Wherever you choose to tickle your taste buds, you’re guaranteed of a great meal, a fabulous atmosphere and a memorable evening, every evening!
Our Top Choice of Restaurants
Chez Pépé Nicolas – Chalet D’Alpage
- A very authentic eatery boasting fabulous views over the Péclet-Polset glacier.
- Located on La Chasse piste.
- Run by the grandchildren of Nicolas Jay (a famous gentleman in the Belleville Valley).
- Wednesday nights are fireworks nights.
Favourite Dishes
- Traditional stew made with meat from the Savoie region, vegetables in broth, bone marrow and mustard glaze.
- Rice pudding with salted-butter caramel and five-nut brittle.
Service
Lunch: 12pm every day.
Dinner: Open Tuesday-Saturday.
Top Tip: Go in the evening for a truly magical experience. The restaurant provides a flaming torch to help light your way back down the path.
Les Aiguilles de Péclet
- A magical atmosphere and panoramic views.
- Located at the foot of the Péclet glacier.
- There is a self-service restaurant and an ‘à la carte’ option. Find out more here.
- Access is via the Funitel Péclet.
- There are three beautifully sunny terraces here, making it perfect for a lunchtime break!
Favourite Dishes – Don’t Miss These!
- Filet de Boeuf
- Homemade Fois Gras
- Scallop Risotto
Top Tip:Look out for the Savoyard evening when there is a torchlight descent down the mountain. Your hotel will have all the information on this unforgettable experience.
Les Enfants Terribles
- Elegant, glamorous atmosphere.
- Classic menu with top quality ingredients.
- Mountain style modern brasserie.
Favourite Dishes
- Lobster Roll
- Scallop Carpaccio
- Filet à ‘Les Enfants Terribles’
Service
Open from 23rd November 2018-27th April 2019.
Open evenings (except Tuesday and Sunday) from 7-11pm.
The à la carte menu ranges from €20 to €60 and the oyster bar from €11 to €145. Desserts start at €11.
Top Tip: Make sure you check out the oyster bar at Les Enfants Terribles.
John’s Scandinavian Restaurant
- Fabulous Scandinavian style cuisine.
- John’s is famous for its steaks and fish, all cooked with a Scandinavian influence.
- ‘Good food cooked with love!’
- Changing seasonal menu.
Favourite Dishes
- Seafood
- Soups
- Salads
Service
Open from 5pm to 2am, but the kitchen closes at 11pm.
Top Tip : They do great cocktails at the bar here so if you’re in the mood for a tipple, get ready to be spoilt!
How to Get to Val Thorens
The most popular arrival airport for visitors to Val Thorens is Geneva (GVA), a hub well served by several direct flights daily from the UK. British Airways and easyJet provide the regular 90-minute flight and there are some good deals to be had if you can be flexible on dates.
Shuttle Direct are my ‘go to’ choice for transfers from the airport to resort. When I want to just get to my hotel and get my holiday started, I don’t want to mess around with public transport. Shuttle Direct offer a ‘meet and greet’ at the airport and a personal and friendly service that takes you right to your hotel door. They also provide roomy vehicles with lots of space for winter sports gear. Book in advance and you can look forward to a hassle free trip from Geneva to Val Thorens.
Overview
- UK to GVA Flight Time: 1 ½ hours
- Distance from GVA to Val Thorens: 202km
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 2 ½ hours
Where to Stay
Hôtel Fitz Roy – This is my top pick in primarily because of its excellent location – you can ski right back to the door! Not only is there a fabulous indoor swimming pool but a wellness centre too and, believe me, after a long day skiing, a massage is very welcome.
All the rooms have balconies and, as Hôtel Fitz Roy is surrounded by stunning mountains, the views are incredible. The restaurant is excellent and serves gourmet dishes blending local and traditional concepts with modern flavours.
Other convenient facilities include a ski locker, ski hire facility and free Wi-Fi, which is handy when you want to upload pictures of all the fun you are having.
About Shuttle Direct
Here, at Shuttle Direct, we have a reputation founded on our excellent and competitive service. We provide airport transfers throughout Europe and North Africa and our drivers are on hand to help get your holiday off to the best start. For anyone travelling to a winter sports destination, our vehicles are large enough to carry your equipment, so there are no worries on that front. Book in advance and look forward to hassle free onward travel.
