This relatively unknown area is one not to be missed before it becomes crowded with Brits.

At present it is fairly uncrowded and has well maintained pistes, of which there is a good variety. The runs are often long, with a good selection of reds and blues. The connection between Valmeinier and Valloire is easily made by intermediate skiers. Accessible off-piste skiing will be superb after a good snowfall.

Nightlife in Valmeinier is limited but lively and there are some good restaurants in the village and on the pistes.

Snowcoach's Hotel l'Aigle provides comfortable accommodation and excellent food in Valmeinier. Valloire is quite a big, traditional village but lacks the slopeside convenience of Valmeinier.

Fully recommended for those who like long cruising runs, with the odd testing piste and limitless off-piste when conditions allow.