Resort overview
Tignes stands out from other French resorts for two main reasons: its high altitude, snow-sure slopes that continue to deliver year after year, and excellent skiing spread over vast terrain. Connected to neighbouring alpine heavy-hitter, Val d’Isere, Tignes forms part of the incredible Tignes/Val d’Isère ski area and as the higher of the two resorts, provides fast access to 300km of slopes.
With the Grande Motte glacier providing plenty of guaranteed snow, even during some summer months, Tignes is a really safe bet to get your fix of the white stuff. With a variety of runs to suit all abilities, it’s an excellent choice for groups, as well as intermediate skiers with around 45% being blue runs. Whilst not matching up to resorts such as Méribel or Megeve in terms of beauty, the skiing here more than makes up for it!
The resort is split into a number of areas with most visitors staying in the main villages of Tignes Le Lac or Val Claret. Centred on one side of the scenic lake is Tignes Le Lac whilst further up the valley, Val Claret is often considered better located for skiing. A free bus service connects all the villages so getting around is a cinch.
Skiing in Tignes
Tignes has some impressive skiing, with its highest ski point rising to a towering 3455m at the top of the Grande Motte glacier, providing a snow sure ski spot even in the summer.
Serviced by two ski lifts, beginners will find the best nursery slopes in Tignes Le Lac. Most of Tignes’ local slopes are ideal for intermediates and the wide red runs from the Grande Motte glacier right back down to the resort are unmissable. There’s a whole host of superb intermediate pistes throughout the Tignes/Val d’Isère ski area.
Experts are spoilt in Tignes with an extensive choice of challenging terrain. The resort has not only a wide variety of black runs, many of which are now classified as ungroomed Naturides, but also some of the best lift-served off-piste itineraries in the world.
Tignes après ski
Often the après scene of Tignes is overshadowed by the reputation of its energetic neighbour Val D’Isere, but there’s still plenty to keep your taste buds tingling and body hydrated. Both Tignes Le Lac and Val Claret have a buzzing early evening après atmosphere, especially during the popular happy hours. Some of the livelier bars are open until late with live music, dancing and sports.
Restaurants range from those serving reasonably priced local Savoyard cuisine such as fondues and raclettes, to gourmet establishments for extra special occasions. The evenings can be lively or mellow depending on the sort of Tignes ski break you are looking for.
Short Ski Breaks In Tignes
Tignes is one of the most popular ski resorts for Brits, for both week long holidays and short breaks. Whilst it's not the prettiest resort, its high altitude, snow-sure slopes deliver great ski breaks year after year.
