Les 3 Vallées: The Largest Ski Area in the World
Les 3 Vallées is the largest ski area in the world: 600 km of slopes, 339 runs, and 183 lifts spread across four interconnected resorts in the French Alps of Savoie. A single pass grants access to the entire domain, meaning you can ski in a different valley every day for a week without repeating a run.
The highest access point with the best snow is from Val Thorens, the highest resort in Europe at 2,300 m. From here you can reach any point in the domain in less than 2 hours of skiing.
The 4 Resorts of Les 3 Vallées
🏆 Val Thorens (2,300 – 3,230 m) — The Highest in Europe
The jewel of Les 3 Vallées. The highest resort in Europe guarantees quality snow from November to May. Slopes for all levels, Péclet glacier, and views of Mont Blanc from Cime de Caron (3,230 m). The best choice for Easter due to guaranteed snow.
- Own slopes: 150 km | Lifts: 31
- Level: All, especially intermediate and advanced
- Best for: Guaranteed snow, long season, mountain skiing
🎿 Ski Rental Val Thorens — From €32/day | ⛷️ Full Val Thorens Catalog
🏅 Méribel (1,450 – 2,952 m) — The Heart of Les 3 Vallées
The most central resort in the domain and the favorite of British skiers. Traditional chalet architecture, cosmopolitan atmosphere, and direct access to all valleys. Perfect for families and mixed groups.
- Own slopes: 150 km | Lifts: 43
- Level: All levels, especially families
- Best for: Atmosphere, gastronomy, central domain access
👑 Courchevel (1,300 – 2,738 m) — The Most Exclusive
The most luxurious ski resort in the world. Courchevel 1850 is synonymous with alpine glamour, featuring 5-star hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and impeccable slopes. It also has more affordable areas in Courchevel 1650 and 1550.
- Own slopes: 150 km | Lifts: 58
- Level: All, especially advanced and luxury
- Best for: Premium experience, perfectly groomed slopes
🟢 Les Menuires (1,800 – 2,850 m) — Best Value for Money
The most affordable resort in Les 3 Vallées and the best value for money. Direct access to Val Thorens and Méribel, with excellent slopes and accommodation prices much lower than its neighbors.
- Own slopes: 160 km | Lifts: 36
- Level: All, especially budget-conscious families
- Best for: Price, full domain access, families
Les 3 Vallées in Numbers
| Data | Figure |
|---|---|
| Total km of slopes | 600 km |
| Number of slopes | 339 |
| Lifts | 183 |
| Minimum altitude | 1,300 m (Courchevel) |
| Maximum altitude | 3,230 m (Cime de Caron, Val Thorens) |
| Included resorts | 4 (Val Thorens, Méribel, Courchevel, Les Menuires) |
| Season | November – May |
| Best access from Spain | Flight to Lyon or Geneva + transfer |
How to Plan a Week in Les 3 Vallées
- Day 1: Val Thorens — acclimate to the altitude, slopes in the central sector
- Day 2: Péclet Glacier and Cime de Caron — the best views of the domain
- Day 3: Méribel — cross the valley and explore the heart of the domain
- Day 4: Courchevel — a day at the world’s most exclusive resort
- Day 5: Les Menuires — less crowded slopes and return to Val Thorens
- Day 6: Free day to repeat favorites or explore off-piste
Ski Rental for Les 3 Vallées
Reserve your equipment online before arriving. With Caranva Sports you have slope-side pickup in Val Thorens and Courchevel, with premium 2026 gear for all levels.
- 🎿 Ski Rental Val Thorens — From €32/day
- 🎿 Ski Rental Courchevel 1850
- ⭐ Val Thorens Extras — Additional Services
- ⛷️ View the full Val Thorens catalog
Frequently Asked Questions about Les 3 Vallées
How many km of slopes does Les 3 Vallées have?
Les 3 Vallées has 600 km of slopes spread across Val Thorens, Méribel, Courchevel, and Les Menuires. It is the largest ski area in the world with a single lift pass.
Which is the best resort in Les 3 Vallées?
It depends on your profile: Val Thorens for better snow and longer season, Méribel for central access and atmosphere, Courchevel for a premium experience, Les Menuires for the best price. With the combined pass, you can ski in all of them.
Does the Val Thorens lift pass include all of Les 3 Vallées?
Yes. The Val Thorens lift pass gives access to the 600 km of slopes across the entire Les 3 Vallées domain. It is the same pass as Méribel, Courchevel, or Les Menuires — all provide access to the full domain.
How long does it take to ski from Val Thorens to Courchevel?
Approximately 1h30 – 2h skiing, passing through Méribel. The connecting lifts close at 4:30 PM, so plan your return with enough time.
When is the best time to ski in Les 3 Vallées?
February is the month with the best snow and most hours of sun. For Easter, Val Thorens is the best option due to its altitude. The season runs from November to May, with Val Thorens closing last.
