Tignes

Located in the southern Alps, Tignes is well known for it's proximity to Val D'Isere but offers a few challenges of it's own.

All of the resort is located in one village with many large high-rise apartment buildings (and a large car park). Not the most attractive village.

Not my favourite resort, I found it crowded and the runs very long and, if not terribly steep and difficult, long and flat. Not good for beginner skiers really (unless you like walking a lot).

In 2012 I visited again after my first visit when skiing in Val d'Isere and have tempered my attitude a bit - I still am not a great fan of the red under “Les Lanches” (as it is narrow, steep, long, busy and gets bumpy) but I am learning to live with it.

My favourite run here has to be “Glacier” off the top of the “Grande Motte” cable car. Often this run is closed due to high winds and it is often very busy but is definitely worth the trip. I would, however, give the black a miss…

At the top of Grande Motte the view is amazing looking back into town at the top of the Les Lanches runs.

Nice scenery.

At the far end of the resort (to the right on the map) there are a number of nice runs and spectacular scenery. If you have time, try to make it over here.

AVOID “carline” if at all possible as it is VERY busy run with a narrow, steep approach to the town. Yes, I know you won't be able to always do this as it is the only access to the town but God it is awful…The top, mind you, from the Grattalu chair is not bad…

Getting to the resort is truly incredible with a drive along the side of a valley continually upwards until eventually you cross over a large dam then continue up to the resort village.

For further information please see:

• Tignes