TIGNES AS A LUXURY DESTINATION
CONTENTS
Renowned for its world-class skiing and breathtaking landscapes, Tignes seamlessly blends alpine adventure with opulent comfort, making it an ideal destination for those seeking the adventure in luxury.
> Different villages of Tignes
> Summer in Tignes
Villages of Tignes
Tignes is not just a single resort but a collection of interconnected villages, each offering unique charm and amenities. Here’s our guide to help you explore and choose the right village for your stay in Tignes.
Tignes Le Lac:
Le Lac is often considered the heart of the resort, offering stunning lake views and a central location. It’s a lively hub with a wide range of accommodations, dining options, and activities.
Le Lac offers fantastic proximity to slope with easy access to the Val D’Isere or Val Claret with just one lift.
Because of it’s unbeatable location, Le Lac, particularly Rue Des Almes, has become the hot spot for luxury chalets.
Ideal For:
Skiers who want to be at the centre of the action within walking distance to slopes and a lively après-ski scene.
Val Claret
Val Claret is located at a higher altitude than Tignes Le Lac and is known for its modern infrastructure and dynamic atmosphere. It’s close to the Grande Motte glacier, making it an excellent choice for those looking for guaranteed snow.
There are limited options for luxury chalets here but the Hotel Les Suites offers aa fantastic 5 star hotel option, close to all the action.
Ideal For:
Snow enthusiasts seeking high-altitude skiing and vibrant nightlife.
Tignes Les Brévières (1600m)
Tignes Les Brévières is a charming, traditional village at a lower altitude compared to Le Lac and Val Claret. It offers a more relaxed and picturesque setting with beautiful alpine architecture, cobblestone streets and traditional chalets.
The village hosts many traditional restaurants and bars offering local Savoyard cuisine.
Although it's the lowest village of Tignes it has fast access to the huge ski area via the Sache gondola.
Ideal For:
Families and those seeking a quieter, more traditional alpine experience in a cozy chalet.
Tignes Les Boisses (1800M)
Les Boisses, also known as Tignes 1800, is a relatively new development designed with a family-friendly focus. It offers a blend of modern amenities with traditional alpine charm.
Excellent facilities for families with a great beginner area for children to learn on quiet and protected slopes.
Direct access to the Espace Killy ski area via the Boisses gondola.
Ideal For:
Families and those seeking modern accommodations with a traditional feel.
See our full guide to the villages of Tignes
Related posts:
> How to plan a luxury chalet holiday to Tignes
The Ski Area
> Webcams
The Ski Area: Espace Killy
Tignes, together with Val d'Isère, forms the Val D'Isere Tignes ski area, previously called The Espace Killy. This ski area boasts over 300 kilometers of slopes, ensuring a variety of runs for all skill levels.
Highlights:
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Grande Motte Glacier: Offers skiing up to 3,456 meters, with guaranteed snow year-round.
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Piste Variety: From gentle greens and blues to challenging reds and blacks, there's something for everyone.
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Off-Piste: Tignes is renowned for its off-piste opportunities, with guided tours available for those seeking adventure beyond the groomed runs.
See the full interactive piste map here
Why is the skiing in Tignes so good?
Efficient Lift System:
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Fast Lifts: Tignes features a modern and efficient lift system, ensuring minimal wait times and more time on the slopes. Key lifts like the Toviere gondola provide quick access to various parts of the ski area.
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Grande Motte Funicular: This underground funicular takes you from Val Claret to the glacier in just a few minutes, providing access to high-altitude skiing even in the warmer months.
Connectivity:
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Interconnected Villages: The lift system seamlessly connects the different villages of Tignes, making it easy to explore the entire resort without needing to remove your skis.
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Val D'Isere Tignes: The interconnected ski area allows for extensive exploration between Tignes and Val d’Isère, offering a combined 300 km of pistes.
Year round skiing:
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Due to it's high altitude, Tignes is a snow sure resort for early (November + December) and late (April + May) season skiing. The Grand Motte glacier also allows for skiing during the summer months.
Exploring the Slopes
For Beginners:
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Gentle Slopes: Tignes offers a variety of gentle, wide slopes perfect for beginners. The dedicated beginner zones in Tignes Le Lac and Val Claret provide a safe environment to build confidence.
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Ski Schools: Tignes have an abundance of recommended ski schools like Supreme, Evolution 2 and ESF Tignes offer beginner lessons to help newcomers get comfortable on the slopes.
> Discover our recommended itineraries for beginners.
For Intermediates:
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Blue Runs: Intermediates will find a plethora of blue runs to explore, especially around Tignes Le Lac and Val Claret. The Palafour side, also the sunny side, offers many cruisey blue runs for finding your ski legs.
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Red Runs: For those looking to challenge themselves, Tignes is the perfect resort for progression. The "Aiguille Percée" area offers some of the best red runs with stunning views and exciting terrain.
> Discover our recommended itineraries for intermediates.
For Advanced Skiers:
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Black Runs: Advanced skiers can test their skills on the resort’s challenging black runs. The "Sache" run from the top of the Aiguille Percée down to Tignes Les Brévières is a must-try, known for its length and technical sections.
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Off-Piste: Tignes is a paradise for off-piste enthusiasts. With its varied terrain and excellent snow conditions, the off-piste routes here are some of the best in the Alps. Hiring a guide is recommended to safely explore areas like the Grande Balme and the Vallon de la Sache.
> Discover our recommended itineraries for advanced skiers.
For Freestylers:
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Snow Parks: Tignes boasts several well-maintained snow parks suitable for all levels of freestylers. The park in Val Claret is particularly popular, offering jumps, rails, and half-pipes.
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Air Bag: For those wanting to practice tricks safely, Tignes provides an airbag jump in Val Claret, allowing skiers and snowboarders to perfect their skills without the risk of injury.
Summer Glacier Skiing:
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Summer Skiing: The Grande Motte glacier provides the opportunity to ski even during the summer months, with well-groomed slopes and stunning views.
Off piste and Ski Touring:
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Backcountry Adventures: For those seeking adventure, ski touring in Tignes offers the chance to explore untouched powder and serene alpine landscapes. Guided tours are available for various skill levels.
> See our full off-piste ski guide here.
Luxury Chalet Or Hotel?
Choosing between a luxury chalet and a hotel depends on several factors including the type of experience you're seeking, the level of privacy you desire, the amenities you prioritize, and the location. Here are some key considerations to help you decide:
Luxury Chalet
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Privacy: Chalets offer a high level of privacy, often being standalone properties.
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Space: Typically, chalets are more spacious than hotel rooms, providing multiple bedrooms, living areas, and sometimes outdoor space.
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Personalized Experience: Many chalets come with private staff, including chefs, housekeepers, and sometimes butlers.
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Home-Like Environment: A chalet can provide a home-away-from-home feel with the comfort of a living room, kitchen, and dining area.
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Unique Locations: Chalets are often situated in picturesque, remote locations, such as in the mountains or by lakes.
Things to consider:
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Cost: Luxury chalets can be very expensive, especially with the addition of private staff.
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Isolation: They can be more isolated, which may require additional transportation to nearby attractions or services.
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Self-Sufficiency: Although many chalets offer staff, some may require a level of self-sufficiency for meals and activities.
Luxury Hotel
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Amenities: Hotels typically offer a wide range of amenities such as spas, pools, gyms, restaurants, and concierge services.
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Service: High-end hotels provide top-notch service with 24/7 room service, daily housekeeping, and concierge services.
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Location: The 5* Hotels in Tignes are centrally located, providing easy access to the pistes, dining, and shopping.
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Social Environment: Hotels can offer a more social atmosphere with common areas where you can meet other guests.
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Convenience: All-inclusive services and amenities are readily available, making for a more hassle-free experience.
Things to consider:
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Privacy: Hotels may offer less privacy compared to a standalone chalet.
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Space: Even the largest suites in a hotel may not provide as much space as a luxury chalet.
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Personalized Experience: While hotels offer great service, it may not be as personalized as the service in a private chalet.
Decision Factors
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Group Size: For larger groups or families, a chalet might be more suitable and private. For couples or small groups, a hotel might suffice.
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Purpose of Stay: If you’re looking for relaxation and seclusion, a chalet is ideal. For a resort experience or a family with young kids looking for more amenities, a hotel might be better.
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Duration of Stay: For longer stays, the extra space and amenities of a chalet can be beneficial. For shorter trips, the convenience of a hotel is often preferable. Chalets are often set to week long bookings whereas Hotels tend to be more flexible.
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Budget: Consider your budget, as chalets can be more expensive, especially when factoring in private staff.
In conclusion, if you prioritise privacy, space, and a personalised experience, a luxury chalet would be the way to go. If you value convenience, access to amenities, and a central location, a luxury hotel would be a better choice.
> Guide to planning a luxury ski holiday
Where to Eat?
> Restaurant reviews
> Where to drink
For a an extensive guide to dining in Tignes, check out our full list of recommendations. Here aare our top picks:
Best For Fine Dining: Ursus - 1 Michelin Star, Val Claret
> See more fine dining options
Best on the mountain: Panoramic, Glacier Grande Motte
Le Panoramic is not only known for its breathtaking views but also for its gourmet dining. Located at 3,032 meters, this restaurant combines haute cuisine with spectacular alpine scenery. The interior is luxurious, featuring plush seating and a roaring fireplace, creating a perfect setting for a memorable meal.
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Signature Dishes: Foie gras terrine, lobster bisque, and chocolate fondant.
Best local cuisine: Les Fermes des Trois Capucines, Lavachet
La Ferme des Trois Capucines offers a unique Savoyard dining experience set in a beautifully restored farmhouse. The restaurant specialises in farm-to-table cuisine, using fresh, local produce from their own farm. The rustic yet refined setting, along with the gourmet dishes, provides an unforgettable dining experience.
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Signature Dishes: Braised veal, Savoyard tartiflette, and homemade ice creams.
Best in resort: Le queue de Cochon, Lavachet
QDC This British run bar and restaurant is the hub of the social scene in Lavachet. The soundtrack is rock and the cocktails are superb. Meanwhile Duncan the chef produces an innovative menu with a modern take on French classics.
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Signature dish: 'Le queue de cochon' 18 hour slow roasted pigs’ tail or the slow roasted beef cheek.
> See more our full restaurant guide.
Where to Eat?
> Best mountain restaurants
> Best restaurants in resort
> Restaurant reviews
> Where to drink
For a an extensive guide to dining in Tignes, check out our full list of recommendations. Here aare our top picks:
Best For Fine Dining: Ursus - 1 Michelin Star, Val Claret
Best on the mountain: Panoramic, Glacier Grande Motte
Le Panoramic is not only known for its breathtaking views but also for its gourmet dining. Located at 3,032 meters, this restaurant combines haute cuisine with spectacular alpine scenery. The interior is luxurious, featuring plush seating and a roaring fireplace, creating a perfect setting for a memorable meal.
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Signature Dishes: Foie gras terrine, lobster bisque, and chocolate fondant.
Best local cuisine: Les Fermes des Trois Capucines, Lavachet
La Ferme des Trois Capucines offers a unique Savoyard dining experience set in a beautifully restored farmhouse. The restaurant specializes in farm-to-table cuisine, using fresh, local produce from their own farm. The rustic yet refined setting, along with the gourmet dishes, provides an unforgettable dining experience.
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Signature Dishes: Braised veal, Savoyard tartiflette, and homemade ice creams.
> See more fine dining options
Apres In Style
Whether you're looking to unwind with a sophisticated cocktail, dance on the mountain top, or sample some live music at one of the local bars, Tignes offers a diverse range of après-ski experiences to suit every taste.
La Folie Douce, Between Tignes and Val D’Isere ski areas
La Folie Douce is an iconic après-ski venue known for its lively atmosphere and stunning mountain views. Located at an altitude of 2,400 meters, this high-energy spot features live music, DJ performances, and cabaret shows. There are 2 fantastic restaurants for lunch but party typically kicks off in the afternoon, transforming the slopes into a vibrant outdoor club scene. Enjoy a mix of house, pop, and electronic music while dancing on the tables and soaking up the festive vibes.
The Folie Douce can be accessed on skis from the Fresse or Toviere ski lifts or by pedestrian access using the La Daille gondola in Val D’Isere.
Be aware that you will get kicked off the mountain when the ski lifts close, be sure to allow enough time to get back to Tignes.
Cocorico, Tignes Le Lac
Cocorico is one of Tignes' most popular après-ski venues, renowned for its lively outdoor parties and infectious energy. Situated conveniently in Tignes Le Lac, Cocorico offers a high-spirited and fun atmosphere that draws a diverse crowd. The expansive outdoor terrace is the perfect place to enjoy the last rays of sunshine with a drink in hand. The terrace often features live music, DJs, and performances, creating a festive outdoor party vibe. Because it’s not on the mountain, the party can go on until 7–8pm.
Le Whitney Bar, Hôtel Les Suites du Nevada, Val Claret
Le Whitney Bar is an intimate and sophisticated spot ideal for unwinding after a day on the slopes. Located within the luxurious Hôtel Les Suites du Nevada, this bar offers a wide selection of fine wines, champagnes, and creative cocktails. The cozy interior, complete with plush seating and ambient lighting, makes it a perfect place to relax and socialise.
Loop Bar, Tignes Le Lac
Loop Bar is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for its relaxed vibe and excellent après-ski entertainment. Located conveniently near the slopes, it offers a great selection of beers, cocktails, and comfort food. The outdoor terrace is perfect for soaking up the last rays of the day while enjoying live music and DJ performances.
Bolin, Top of Bolin chair lift., Val Claret
Le Bolin restaurant is the perfect place to soak up the sun with an Aperol Spritz in hand. The restaurant can be accessed by the Bolin chairlift, or a bit of a walk from the top of Val Claret. Famous for its Bolin Beach party, Telecabin DJ booth and Aperol Spritz truck. There is a lot of fun to be had at this sun trap apres ski spot.
> See our full list of Apres ski and nightlife recommendations
What to do outside of Skiing?
