Tignes

France

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Ski holiday moments to set your pulse racing

Diving into an ice cold lake. Whooshing through mountain forest on a dog sleigh. Catapulting through the ice cold air off a springboard. Tignes... and that's before you’ve even hit the slopes!

Tignes, France Weather

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Average daily "high" temperature

Get out and explore

Nestled in Val Claret, one of Tignes’ main villages, the Chalet Hotel L’Ecrin places you right at the heart of the action. Just a 10-minute walk or short bus ride to the five main lifts in Tignes Val Claret, you can be up on the area’s 300km of pistes in no time. 

At 2100m, Val Claret is the highest and most lively village in Tignes. From the cosy, family-friendly restaurants to the world renowned bars and nightlife, you’ll discover one of the best après-ski destinations in Europe. Get ready for the winter adventure of a lifetime in this snow-topped Tignes ski resort paradise.

Local highlights

The Chalet Hotel L'Ecrin is just a 10-minute walk or short bus ride to the five main lifts in Tignes Val Claret, making it an excellent choice for hitting the slopes, browsing the resort shops or indulging in some well-earned après-ski.  

There are all kinds of activities on offer in Tignes ski resort, whether you’re in the mood for high-octane sports or simply soaking up the beautiful landscape. Adrenalin junkies will love the Bun J Ride, best described as a cross between skiing and bungee jumping—we’ll let you imagine the rest! Or, to admire the mountains from a new perspective, you can glide above the snowy peaks in a tiny aircraft via Tignes’ innovative microlight flight experience.

Bored of getting the ski lift everyday? Give heli-skiing a go and get whisked up the slopes in a helicopter, ski equipment in tow. You will soar above the breathtaking aerial views of the Alps before being dropped off at your skiing spot. 

There’s also plenty to explore on foot. The chalet is just a 20-minute walk away from the beautiful turquoise waters of the Lac de Tignes. On the way, you’ll pass a frozen lake offering up more unforgettable activities—whether you fancy skating on or diving into the ice.

Ice skating

With views of the mountains above and twinkling lights from the village nearby, this naturally occurring rink on a frozen lake feels like a winter wonderland. There’s even cups of vin chaud and hot chocolate available to help you stay toasty. Feeling confident on your skates? Then don’t miss the ice disco, which takes place most nights between 8pm and 10pm throughout the season.

Ice diving

Get lost in the wilderness and silence of Le Lac’s icy underworld with this unique diving experience. Rather than coral and fish, you’ll spot stunning ice formations, dancing air bubbles and rays of light piercing through cracks in the surface. Your instructors will make sure you stay warm, kitting you out with the right dry suit, face mask and gloves.

Lagon Swimming Pool

Just the other side of the Lac de Tignes is an aqua and wellness centre promising fun for all the family. There are three different pools to suit all ages and abilities. The kids’ pool features a slide, and on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays there are inflatable games. Grown ups have the option to hit the gym—or take it easy with a jacuzzi, sauna and detox tea at the spa.

Local food and drink

Make the most of your time in the French Alps and experience the delicious cuisine available from a variety of restaurants. With fresh, locally produced cheeses, wines, meats and vegetables on offer, foodies will be in heaven.

There is a wide range of restaurants throughout the village, including American, Asian, European and Italian restaurants, fine dining options and family friendly environments. Make sure you try raclette or fondue during your stay. The local delicacies make for a sociable dining experience and are quintessentially French. 

Of course, on any snow holiday, the après ski is almost as important as the skiing itself. Val Claret is home to a number of great spots to unwind after a day on the slopes—like Drop Zone, the resort’s biggest south-facing terrace bar. The bar offers cheap beer, snacks and happy hour prices from 4pm to 6pm. Cocorico is another top choice, with a large outdoor terrace, pizza restaurant and a DJ set from 6pm to 8pm.

To keep your energy levels up on the slopes the next day, pick up some flavourful snacks at the nearby food market. Discover an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, deli meats and artisanal cheeses as you experience a piece of local life and authentic French culture. 

Retail therapy

If you feel like taking things at a slower pace during your stay, there are various shops dotted throughout Tignes that are perfect for a mooch. For souvenirs, check out the tabacs selling various knick-knacks and ornaments. Or head to one of the specialty food stores—like the Coopérative Laitière De Haute Tarentaise Tignes in Le Lac—selling locally produced cheeses, saucisson, wine, beer, biscuits and other culinary delights. 

If you fancy stocking up on skiing clothes and equipment, there are many bargains to be found in the Intersport shops in Le Lac and Val Claret. There’s also a number of specialty stores for snowboarders, including Black Cats in Val Claret, plus Snowpark and Snocool in Le Lac.

You may also find some treats at the local pharmacies. French pharmacies are renowned for their beauty and cosmetic products, including some great brands that are unavailable in the UK. With so many high-quality products, you won’t regret having a splurge, and will be ready to pamper-away the holiday blues when you get home. 

Things to do in Tignes

If you want to mix things up during your stay, there’s plenty to do in the area besides the local skiing runs. With great restaurants, lively après-ski spots and even a local cinema, Val D’Isere makes for a great day trip. We’ve listed some more of our favourite activities below. 

Après ski & night life

Tignes is renowned for its amazing après ski and nightlife scene. We recommend beginning at La Folie Douce over in Val d’Isère, a favourite with skiers for its great atmosphere and world class DJs. Continue the party until the small hours at one of the brilliant bars and nightclubs in the villages near the resort, like the highly-rated Loop Bar in Le Lac.

Cross country skiing

Known as “ski de fond” in France, cross country skiing is one of the best ways to experience the stunning alpine scenery at your own pace. During your stay in Tignes, you’ll have access to the entire Tignes and Val D'Isere ski area, which has more than 44 km of trails and guaranteed snow throughout the winter season.

Dog sledding

Go on an expedition through the snow, cruising at high speeds aboard a sleigh pulled by some adorable furry friends. You can choose between a half or full day excursion, and can even steer the huskies yourself if you fancy. Rest assured that the dogs are well looked after, and will have just as much fun as you on the journey.