Getting around guide

Buses

There is a free shuttle bus service in Val Thorens. The route is a circular route in and around Val Thorens with buses every 10 minutes in winter from 08:05 to 20:00 Sunday to Friday and on a Saturday 06:15 to 22:20. Take a look at the map on the bus stop signs to locate the specific pick up/drop off points.

If you feel that you would like to venture further afield, either via piste (with a bus back to Val Thorens) or as a walker to access paths lower down in the valley, there are buses to both Les Menuires and St Martin. Just be aware that they are not as regular as the Val Thorens circular service and they only run four or five times per day.

The Three Valleys ski area is huge so there is every likelihood that you might not get back to Val Thorens in time to catch the last lift. However, there are buses running from Méribel and Courchevel. It might be easy to quickly ski to Courchevel by piste, however by road you need to descend back down the mountain to Moutiers and then back up the other side to arrive in Val Thorens.

The buses are not that regular and they do not run until particularly late so make sure you find the bus station as soon as possible. Do not take your ski boots for some table dancing and après unless you want to fork out for a pricey taxi ride.

Train

The nearest train station to Val Thorens is Moûtiers - approximately 37km from the resort. (The full name is Moutiers les Salins, Brides les Bains. Buses run regularly from Moûtiers to Courchevel, Méribel and Val Thorens check the timetables.

Driving

We know how tempting it is to use the car to pop between the Three Valley's different resorts. But parking - especially in peak seasons - can be a nightmare. It’s not great for the environment either, let’s face it.

If you do want to use the car, try to take as many passengers as you can.

Don’t forget you’ll need winter tyres or chains if you’re driving around Val Thorens between the end of November and the beginning of April. 

Over the past couple of seasons Val Thorens has clamped down on street parking in resort but there is plenty of covered parking available. Depending on the location of your accommodation you can choose between parking areas (P0-P5) which are all managed by VALTHOPARC. We would recommend that you reserve your parking online in advance

Taxi

If you do need a taxi to or from Val Thorens we would recommend that you order it in advance especially if you want to stay out after the local bus service ends.

Bike

Val Thorens is a popular destination for road bikers who fancy tackling the many routes and cols that start and finish here. You can check out many routes by reading our guide to cycling this region.

During the summer you can ride the many marked mountain biking trails.

On foot

Val Thorens is a pedestrian friendly resort with plenty of opportunities for walking around in the village and on the mountains.

• The compact village centre makes it easy to walk between accommodation, shops, and restaurants.
• Pavements and pedestrian zones are well-maintained, though conditions can be icy in winter and ice-grippers are recommended.
• Lifts and escalators help navigate the resort’s different levels, making movement on foot easier.

Winter walking

• Marked winter walking trails provide a scenic way to explore the area away from the ski slopes.
• Some ski lifts are accessible to pedestrians with a non-skier lift pass, allowing access to higher viewpoints.
• Snowshoeing routes offer a great alternative for more adventurous walkers.
• Walking on the ski pistes is not permitted for safety reasons.
   

Summer hiking

• Val Thorens offers a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to high-altitude treks, some are accessible by lift.
• Family-friendly and guided hikes are available around Val Thorens for those wanting to explore the area with an expert.

Helicopter

If you are feeling flash (and flush) you can fly from resort to resort by helicopter with Jet Systems.