Val d'Isere is one of the true European ski meccas; it has some of the best, and highest, on and off-piste skiing in the world. The resort is linked with Tignes, and between them they have 299km (186 miles) of marked runs for every level of skier. Both resorts were developed, rather badly, in the 1970s, and large square hotels dominate the town. However, Val d'Isere remains popular with the English due to the great skiing and busy nightlife, which is centred on venues such as Dick's Tea Bar and the Moris Pub. There are also plenty of good French restaurants to choose from. The village is becoming increasingly busy in the summer when tourists flock there for walking or paragliding.
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The closest airport is at Geneva, about 150km away. Journey time by car from Geneva to Val d'Isere is about three hours. The Aero-skibus will transport you directly to the resort, with prices starting from about £36. Mini buses, coaches and taxis also operate from the airport to the resort. Alternatively, take a train (indirect) to Bourg St Maurice station followed by a 20 minute bus or taxi ride to Val d'Isere.
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- Go down the legendary Bellevarde Face, the site of the men’s downhill in the 1992 Winter Olympics.
- Val d’Isere has been a ski resort since the 1930s and keeps it reputation with continual development. The World Ski Championships will be held here in 2009.
- Late in the season, the quality of the snow is still good which means excellent powder skiing as well as snowboarding and freestyle. The snowpark is well known and hosts many competitions.
- Traditional stone buildings dominate the area so you can get a sense of tradition as well as enjoying gourmet food, elegant hotels and lively night life.
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