Nestled between the French and Italian border, Tignes is a picturesque collection of five villages in the Alps: Tignes les Brévières, Tignes le Lac, Tignes les Boisses, Val Claret and Le Lavachet. In conjunction with Val-d’Isère, it forms part of the famous Espace Killy ski region and caters to all skiing abilities.
As a lesser known area, Tignes tends not to attract large groups of rowdy teens, but instead caters to a more refined demographic. The collection of villages boasts charming little boutiques and cafés, but its biggest selling point is its wide range of fine-dining restaurants.
La Table en Montagne
This modern Savoyard restaurant is part of the five-star Les Suites, Maison Bouvier, located in the heart of Tignes Val Claret.
To complement the beautiful, mountainous setting, La Table en Montagne combines rustic wooden features with a modern décor, creating an elegant and welcoming atmosphere. Using only the best and freshest ingredients, head chef Jean-Michel Bouvier revolutionises traditional Savoyard cuisine by putting a sophisticated twist on classic dishes. The Michelin-starred restaurant offers a unique dining experience, as meat and fish are cooked on hot stones and then carved at your table. Although every dish on this restaurant’s menu is delicious, I’d recommend the shoulder of suckling pig, which is caramelised in spices and just melts in your mouth. If you’ve still got room for dessert, the blueberry tart with silky-smooth milk ice cream is a great palate cleanser.
Le Panoramic
Set at an altitude of 3032 metres at the top of the Funicular on the Grande Motte Glacier, this gourmet restaurant offers mouth-watering food and stunning panoramic views.
While you take in the amazing 360° view of the snow-covered mountains, you can experience a true celebration of local culture. At Le Panoramic, all waiters are proudly dressed in traditional Savoyard berets, and there are sheepskin rugs decorating the chairs and windows. The restaurant has the same chef as La Table en Montagne, so you’re definitely in for a culinary treat!
One of the best dishes is Le Panoramic’s rustic take on a fondue, melting creamy cheese over a wood fire and serving it with boiled potatoes and lettuce. If that doesn’t take your fancy, the menu also boasts an amazing gourmet burger with grilled foie gras and bacon, which is served with a side of homemade chunky chips.
Panorama by Edward Simpson is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Le Chalet Restaurant
Part of the Hotel Les Campanules, this luxury restaurant is a world-class establishment, and is housed in a charming woodland setting.
Le Chalet’s interior is homey and inviting, featuring a relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the resort. They have an extensive menu that changes seasonally, paying tribute to the Alps’ local ingredients. The inventive cuisine puts an unexpected spin on classic flavours. I can never resist their roasted rack of lamb, which is served with a gorgeous thyme gratin Savoyard, though their roasted free-range chicken with its creamy woodland mushroom risotto is another favourite.
The whole menu is a treat for your taste buds, and if you won’t take my word for it, the 2016 Michelin Guide celebrates its “superb view over the mountain and ski slopes”, complementing the chef’s use of “only the finest ingredients”, which are “always beautifully prepared”.
How to Get to Tignes
The easiest way to get to Tignes from the UK is to fly to Geneva Airport. British Airways and Swiss Airways both offer direct, 90-minute flights from London.
To get to your accommodation as quickly and easily as possible, booking a private transfer with Shuttle Direct is your best bet. When you opt for pre-booking a ride, a cheery and experienced driver will meet you outside of the airport terminal and drive you to your luxury hotel in just under three hours.
Where to Stay
Les Suites, Maison Bouvier: Home to La Table en Montagne, this hotel not only has great food, but luxury suites, too. The bathrooms are fitted with relaxing spa baths and rain showers, while the living area has a TV and DVD player. In the evenings, you can enjoy a warm glass of mulled wine on your balcony, or settle in by the lounge area’s fireplace with a drink from the bar. This hotel, which is located in Val Claret’s town centre and just off the Espace Killy ski slopes, also boasts a fitness centre and an indoor swimming pool.
Hotel Le Taos: Just two minutes away from Espace Killy, Hotel Le Taos offers a relaxing holiday experience. All their suites and apartments are equipped with flat-screen TVs and coffee machines. They also feature private bathrooms, with a bath and shower, as well as free toiletries, bathrobes and slippers. Every morning, they serve a delicious continental breakfast in the dining room. The hotel also has free Wi-Fi and a sauna.
Les Campanules Hôtels-Chalets de Tradition: This delightful family-run hotel not only has one of the best restaurants in the area, the aforementioned Le Chalet, but also offers warm and comfortable rooms. Established in the 1958, it retains its traditional Savoyard charm (and the views from the bedroom windows are simply breathtaking!). There is also a swimming pool and wellness centre for you to relax in.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is Europe and North Africa’s leading airport transfer service. Choose between a private, group and shared transfer, and find the deal that best suits your needs, whether you’re looking for a low-budget transfer or a comfortable first-class one. Either way, you’ll be met by a friendly and knowledgeable driver at the airport, and taken safely to your destination. Pre-book your ride on our user-friendly website today.
