When the weather turns you'll know it and skiing or even smiling can be a bit of a struggle with freezing temperatures and possible whiteouts. But there's normally plenty of sun, so you should be able to do both. As part of the Trois Vallées domain, Val Thorens' extended skiing is excellent. Around the resort the skiing isn't too shabby either, with intermediates particularly well provisioned. Advanced skiers will love the big moguls and access to the Maurienne Valley for off-piste fun. Boarders will be left out in the cold for all the right reasons with the excellent Snowpark. Scattered around the resort are several gentle greens and, once these are mastered, beginners can easily start on the blues, many of which end up in the neighbouring resort of Les Menuires.

Most visitors stay in hotels or self-cater and the facilities are being upgraded annually. Après-ski is limited to a smattering of bars and restaurants, while the list of non-skiing activities is a little short. Overall, Val Thorens is a resort for people who want the guarantee of snow. You have Méribel and Courchevel to slide over to, varied terrain and incomparable convenience. And just who needs a raging nightlife when you're lost in the simple enjoyment of Val Thorens' snow?