Discover the ultimate guide to outdoor activities with our list of the 14 best things to do in Val d’Isère . From skiing and snowboarding to hiking and mountain biking, there’s something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the French Alps. Plan your adventure today!
Val-d’Isère is a ski resort situated in the French Alps, near the Italian border. It is part of the Espace Killy ski area, together with its neighboring resort Tignes, offering state-of-the-art facilities and charming alpine chalets.
The village, centered around a centuries-old bell tower, offers a striking contrast to the futuristic ski area. The resort boasts the Grande Motte glacier, where skiing and snowboarding can be enjoyed all year round, including in the summer!
For avid cyclists, the legendary climb up the Col de l’Iseran is a must-try challenge. On the other hand, hikers can explore the beautiful coniferous forests and take in the breathtaking scenery. Whatever your taste or budget, there is something for everyone in this exceptional resort!
To convince you, here are some of the best outdoor activities to enjoy in Val-d’Isère!
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Best Outdoor Activities & Things To do in Val d’Isere
Best Outdoor Activities in Val d’Isere in Summer
1. Summer skiing
Val d’Isère is a vast ski area with a glacier. A glacier is an accumulation of snow compressed by its own weight as successive snowfalls occur year after year. These glaciers, which have tended to decrease in recent decades, sometimes allow for summer skiing.
It’s a real pleasure to ski down the slopes in the middle of July! The opening of the ski area during the summer season can vary depending on the weather conditions. In any case, if you have the opportunity, come and try out the most unique outdoor activities to do in Val-d’Isère.
2. Slackline
Slacklining is a modern version of tightrope walking. It involves walking and balancing on a strong rope that is tightly stretched between two points. Flexibility, self-control, and a tolerance for heights are essential skills required for this activity.
Skilled practitioners can perform impressive tricks, but simply crossing the line is an achievement in itself. If you’re interested in trying this outdoor activity in Val d’Isère, head to the Sports Park. Initiation sessions are organized throughout the summer, allowing you to test your balance in a beautiful setting.
3. Laser Biathlon
One of the most popular outdoor activities to do in Val-d’Isère is a summer version of biathlon that combines mountain biking and laser shooting. Instead of using bullets, you will aim for a photoreceptor with a laser beam emitted by your rifle 2.0.
This eliminates the risks associated with the original activity and offers maximum fun for everyone. If you are interested in trying this out, head to the Manchet Sports Park, which offers this activity every day in July and August.
4. Electric two-wheelers
Val-d’Isère boasts a plethora of outdoor activities, each more exciting than the last. For instance, you can opt for electric motocross or mountain biking. Some hiking trails are transformed into authentic circuits that are perfect for friendly competitions.
The absence of a loud engine makes it much more enjoyable in the pastures, without disturbing hikers, cows, and marmots. If you are interested, know that the E-park is located in front of the aqua sports center.
5. Trampoline
Looking for some high-flying fun in Val-d’Isère? Look no further than Acroval, where you can try your hand at trampolining under the watchful eye of expert instructors. This outdoor activity is perfect for the whole family, with various trampolines and other equipment available for all levels. So if you’re searching for a fun way to spend a sunny afternoon or morning, head to Acroval and let the adrenaline flow!
6. Fishing
Fishing is a popular outdoor activity to do in Val-d’Isère, and Lake Ouillette is a great place to enjoy it in the summer. The lake’s cool waters offer a relaxing escape from the heat, and many families come here to picnic and bask in the sunshine.
Trout fishermen also flock to this peaceful spot, which sits at an altitude of 2,500 meters and offers stunning views of the Col de l’Iseran. You can rent equipment at the station or bring your own to try your luck against the regulars of the area.
7. Paragliding
Paragliding in the mountains is an unforgettable experience, and you can discover this exciting outdoor activity in Val-d’Isère during the summer season with experienced instructors. You can learn the techniques of flying under sail during a two-seater flight, and the instructor will ensure a safe takeoff and landing. If you’re feeling adventurous, the instructor may even let you manage the controls. This is a great way to admire the breathtaking Alps and maybe even spot some golden eagles!
8. Treasure Hunt
The treasure hunt is a great outdoor activity in Val-d’Isère that is perfect for families. Along the circuit of the 7 chapels, a fun itinerary is offered to discover the resort’s cultural heritage. This lovely three-hour walk is a pleasant alternative to more demanding mountain sports.
Best Outdoor Activities in Val d’Isere in Winter
1. Buggy on snow
Are you familiar with SSVs? This stands for “side by side vehicles”, which are two-seater buggies designed to be driven on all types of terrain. Equipped with four-wheel drive, they can even conquer snow and ice!
We mention this outdoor activity to do in Val-d’Isère because it is one of the most popular leisure activities in the ski resort. Get ready for skids, rapid acceleration, and thrilling sensations!
2. Speed-riding
Speed-riding is a thrilling outdoor activity to do in Val-d’Isère that combines skiing and paragliding. Essentially, you’re skiing down the slopes with a wing above your head, allowing you to safely glide over the ground. The only requirement to experience the joy of these gliding flights is to have a decent level of skiing. For the rest, it’s pure exhilaration!
3. Nordic skiing
Nordic skiing is a popular outdoor activity to do in Val-d’Isère. The Nordic ski area comprises six loop trails with a total length of 20 km throughout the resort. This sport offers a great way to improve your physical condition while taking in the magnificent panoramas of the Vanoise. You can choose from the slopes of Daille, Manchet, Laisinant or Ouillette, each with its own unique charm.
4. Ice cascade
In the Daille area, there is a magnificent illuminated waterfall that comes to life from 6pm to 10pm. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn ice climbing, and the resort’s guides offer classes to help you progress safely on this frozen cascade.
If you don’t have the necessary equipment, don’t worry – crampons, technical ice axes, and harnesses can be rented from one of the many rental agencies in the resort.
5. Winter horseback riding
Have you ever tried a winter horseback ride? Don’t worry, horses love the cold weather! This outdoor activity in Val d’Isère consists of exploring the Vanoise park on horseback or pony. You can choose to ride the horse or let it pull you on a sled.
This pleasant and invigorating ride is sure to appeal to both young and old.
6. Sledding
If you want to enjoy the winter in Val d’Isère but don’t know how to ski, don’t worry! You can head to the toboggan area, located on the snow front to the left of the Savonette ski lift. This area is open from 10am to 5pm for anyone who wants to have a good time. Sledding is an activity that puts everyone in agreement, whether you come as a couple, with family or friends. It’s a great way to have fun and laugh together. Afterward, you can warm up with a fondue or a hearty raclette!
I hope you find the article ‘The 14 Best Things to do in Val d’Isère [Outdoor Activities]’ helpful.
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