Val d’Allos comprises the traditional Le Seignus and the more modern La Foux, the Val d’Allos has miles of skiing but without the crowds of other large resorts. Established as a ski resort in the 1930’s, the area has retained a laid-back, Provencal atmosphere and is very popular with families from Nice, Cannes and Monaco. Fantastic scenery, loads of skiing for all abilities and no package tour operators makes it one of France’s undiscovered gems.

Our likes/dislikes: Big, varied, ski area and no crowds – outside the local school holidays you’ll be unlucky if you have to queue 30 seconds for a lift. Great value lift passes, tuition and plenty of cheap flights from all over the UK with EasyJet, BA, BMI and EUJet puts it within every skier’s budget. Boarders may not like having to use a button lift to get full use of the domaine and teenagers might not find the area lively enough.

Val d’Allos factfile:

  • Resort height: 1,500 – 2,600m
  • Access: Hire car or coach from Nice, taxi from Thorame railway station.
  • Downhill runs: 79 pistes at La Foux – 25 at Le Seignus.
  • Size of domaine: La Foux 180km, Le Seignus 50km
  • Snow cannon: La Foux 213, Le Seignus 63
  • Lifts: La Foux – 50 lifts, Le Seignus – 11 lifts
  • Lift Pass: Adult €163*, children €128* (6 day passes)
  • Website: http://www.valdallos.com/

Where to stay: Anywhere in Le Seignus will be right by the slopes but Le Hameau du Chapelle and Seignus Haute are a 10 minute walk from the shops and restaurants. La Foux is more spread out and divided by a river so check before you book.

Skiing Lessons: The ESF at Le Seignus and La Foux (http://www.esf.net/) are both excellent with English speaking instructors and separate beginner’s areas safely away from the main pistes. Prices are low and for groups of 3 or more, a private lesson works out cheaper than joining ski school and ensures you get maximum attention.

Ski Equipment: Plenty of choice in both villages and no need to book in advance

Children: Facilities are good with creches in both villages. Be sure to book in advance if visiting during the local school holidays. Plenty of activities during the season – firework displays, clowns and children’s discos. Hardly any visitors outside the school holidays so, at times, teenagers might find the apres ski a bit quiet.

Food Choice: Restaurants range from traditional mountain fare to pizzas, crepes and burgers and there are a couple of small supermarkets and other food shops. Chez Franz in Le Seignus is particularly good and restaurants on the mountain are great value compared to other French resorts.

* please note that all prices are subject to change, so check the providers’ website for latest information.

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