The La Tania Ski Blog
Latest news, snow, pics, gossip and information from the locals in La Tania – latania.co.uk
All the latest news from around the Three Valleys from the La Tania locals. A real blog since 2006, not just endless re-posts for search engine optimisaton! Photos, gossip, snow reports, what's on and all the latest on the Apres Ski scene... Now fully optimised for iPhone, Touch and Android Mobiles - just go to latania.co.uk/blog and view on your phone. Our other past blogs & favourites here
Who will enjoy the best ski season 2025/2026
As winter approaches in the Alps attention shifts from football pitches to snow forecasts and piste maps. For regular visitors to La Tania and the wider Three Valleys the big question is how the 2025/2026 ski season will shape up. Early bookings, snow patterns, and resort investments already hint at what kind of winter experience guests can expect. With families carving out their holiday dates and seasoned skiers planning multiple trips the focus is on which areas will offer the best blend of snow reliability, varied terrain and atmosphere once the lifts start turning.
La Tania setting the early standard
La Tania has built a reputation as a practical base with quick access to high altitude terrain in Courchevel and Méribel. For the coming season the village is once again positioning itself as a smart choice for skiers who want a quieter setting without sacrificing ski in ski out convenience. Efficient lift connections and a good mix of tree runs are particularly valuable on days with flat light or wind higher up the mountain. If early season snowfall is solid La Tania could again become the preferred hub for those seeking value and flexibility while still feeling plugged into one of the largest linked ski areas in the world.
High altitude neighbours in the spotlight
Across the Three Valleys higher resorts remain central to any discussion about winter performance. Courchevel and Méribel will attract experienced skiers who want quick access to wide open pistes and challenging terrain while Val Thorens and the upper sectors are likely to appeal to those prioritising altitude and snow security late in the season. The balance between these resorts often comes down to style of holiday. Some visitors look for lively après ski and a busy village centre while others prefer a quieter base and long days on the mountain. How evenly snowfall distributes across the area will help determine which sectors feel most in demand during peak weeks.
Families and mixed ability groups
For many visitors to La Tania the main consideration is how well the resort caters to mixed ability groups. The combination of gentle pistes near the village and progressive routes higher up suits beginners and intermediates who want to build confidence without feeling pressured onto terrain that is too steep. Ski schools and guided options will again play a big role in shaping the overall experience. If conditions remain stable and lift queues are managed efficiently La Tania and its surrounding slopes can continue to offer a smooth introduction to the Three Valleys for families and first time visitors.
Evenings off the slopes
A winter holiday is not only about time spent in the snow. Many guests relax in the evening by watching football and following the latest action from the Premier League and other major leagues. Those who enjoy a small bet often look for structured analysis rather than guesswork. Services that publish detailed match previews and statistical breakdowns such as form curves, injury news and expected goals can help shape more informed decisions. Resources that provide soccer tips on FIRST focus on these underlying numbers when they highlight value in a fixture list and skiers who follow football can easily check the latest advice back at their chalet between dinner and the next day on the mountain.
What will decide the quality of the season
Several practical factors will shape how skiers remember the 2025/2026 winter. Consistent snowfall at key times remains the single most important element but modern snowmaking and good grooming can smooth out shorter dry spells. Wind management on exposed lifts, crowd levels during half term and the efficiency of ski bus and lift connections will all influence how many quality runs guests manage to fit into each day. Resorts that keep pistes well maintained and signage clear are better placed to help visitors explore more of the area without frustration even in busy periods.
Looking ahead to the winter in La Tania
Taken together the signs point to another engaging season for regulars and newcomers to La Tania alike. The village offers a strong mix of accessible accommodation, compact charm and direct access to varied skiing while the wider Three Valleys provide almost limitless options for mileage hunters. Weather will always introduce an element of uncertainty yet preparation by the lift companies and local businesses helps reduce that risk. As the first significant snowfalls arrive and the lifts open the coming months will reveal which parts of the area stand out for snow quality atmosphere and overall ski experience and many guests are likely to finish the season feeling they chose a well balanced base in the mountains.
All Aboard for the Ski Season!
Winter train tickets to ski resorts across France are now on sale, SNCF has announced — and they’re already selling fast. In fact, half of all February departures are expected to be snapped up by the end of this week!
SNCF opened bookings today (Wednesday, November 12) for train journeys running from January 8 to March 29, 2026 — just in time for the heart of the ski season.
Resorts are gearing up to open soon, with Val Thorens opening on 22 November. Most others are set to open on December 6 or 13, so the countdown is officially on.
Tickets are going fast
According to Clément Bretagnolle, Country Manager France at Trainline, “By the end of the week, nearly half of all trains from Paris to Bourg-Saint-Maurice (Savoie) in February will already be full.”
It’s no surprise – last year’s sales showed just how quickly winter train trips to the Alps can disappear. In 2024, Paris–Bourg-Saint-Maurice routes made up 35% of bookings and were already half full within the first week.
Trains from Paris to Annecy weren’t far behind, accounting for 18% of early sales, while 45% of Lyon–Bourg-Saint-Maurice trains were booked within that same first week.
So if you’re planning a ski getaway this winter, it might be time to grab those train tickets before they vanish like fresh powder on a sunny slope!
New Italian Restaurant in Le Praz
There’s a new Italian Restaurant in Le Praz on the site of the old Azimut Michelin Star place.
It’s already open for the season and currently open from Tuesday to Saturday noon and evening.
Menu limited to Pizzas and a Plat du Jour at present and initial reviews are good.
New Chalet Road Approaching Completion
The main road up to the chalet area in La Tania will pass underneath the new Barma Development (with access to underground parking area) and connect with the temporary chalet road at the bend near to Chalet 365 – the hairpin bend where there was a site entrance.
This should allow the for the completion of the red piste (and ski access from the new apartment & hotel complex) down to the gondola – hard to picture that right now though.
The red Moretta Blanche piste is showing as complete on the 2026 Piste Maps.

Thanks to Ralph at The Freeride Republic for the pics.
New Padel Courts coming to Courchevel 1850
Game, Set… and Padel in Courchevel!
Great news for padel enthusiasts! This fast-growing sport — a fun blend of tennis and squash — is coming to the heart of Courchevel 1850. Beginning in the winter of 2025/2026, two brand-new padel courts will open at the foot of the Émile Allais slalom stadium, right across from the Club des Sports building and the INEOS Club House.

The project, led by Courchevel Tourisme with the support of the Club des Sports, the Town Hall, and in partnership with Lacoste, adds another exciting dimension to the resort’s exceptional sporting facilities. Even better — the new courts will be open year-round, offering visitors and locals alike the chance to play in both Summer and Winter.
Now if only we could get a court in La Tania…
New Apartments in La Tania from €415k to €3m
The new luxury residence in La Tania was known as The Moretta Village Development but now goes under the name BÂRMA. The entire programme will be delivered at the end of the third quarter of 2026. You can visit the worksite and a show apartment in the meantime.
The brand-new 4-star hotel and two beautiful residence buildings are set to bring even more charm to the resort, offering 70 stylish apartments designed for the perfect mountain getaway.
Agence Saulire are marketing these apartments and more details are on their website here.
They will also be offering a special discount for their rental apartments for black Friday, which will be available from 24 November to 1 December with up to 40% off rentals. Their offers are at: www.agencesaulire.uk/location/promotions
The apartments range from cosy 2-room hideaways to spacious 7-room family retreats, all decorated by Atelier Giffon in collaboration with Atelier Plexus. Guests can choose between a sleek, modern look or a warm, mountain-chalet style — each with plenty of thoughtful touches and comfort built in. It is no longer possible to choose the style due to the advancement of the works.
Set in a stunning location, the residences boast breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Every apartment comes with its own balcony or terrace, creating a private spot to relax and take in the scenery.
Best of all, the piste runs right down to the residence, and the ski lifts are just a short distance away — making it effortless to get straight out onto the slopes.
It’s the perfect mix of comfort, style and convenience — everything you need for your next mountain holiday.
24m² Two Room Apartment
Available for €415,000 excluding VAT (possibility to reclaim VAT) under leaseback rules.
A beautifully designed one-bedroom apartment (T2) within the prestigious Barma Residence, perfectly located in La Tania, Courchevel. Blending Alpine charm with modern comfort, this fully furnished apartment is ready to welcome up to four guests — ideal for couples, small families, or anyone looking for a relaxing mountain escape.
Each apartment in the residence enjoys its own unique outlook — some with peaceful forest views, others opening up to spectacular mountain panoramas — creating a true sense of Alpine serenity.
Inside, you’ll find a bright and welcoming living area with quality furnishings and a comfortable sofa bed, a stylish open-plan kitchen, a spacious double bedroom, and a sleek modern bathroom with high-end finishes. Depending on the apartment, there’s also a private balcony or terrace — perfect for enjoying the crisp mountain air after a day on the slopes.
Guests can also take advantage of the residence’s outstanding amenities, including direct ski-in/ski-out access, a restaurant and bar, an aqualudic wellness area with pool and spa, fitness room, children’s daycare, and on-site ski shop, plus private ski lockers and parking.
Whether you’re dreaming of your own peaceful Alpine base or looking for a smart investment in the world-famous Three Valleys ski area, this turnkey apartment offers a rare opportunity to own a slice of Courchevel luxury.
207 m² Seven Room Loft Apartment
A stunning new 7-room duplex penthouse in BÂRMA, a high-end residence perfectly positioned in the heart of La Tania — often described as the best-kept secret of the Three Valleys.
Spanning more than 200m², this remarkable property combines the space and comfort of a private chalet with the elegance of contemporary mountain living. The duplex layout offers spectacular views across the valley, with a main south-facing exposure that fills the home with natural light.
Every detail has been carefully considered — from the quality furnishings selected by Atelier Giffon, to the thoughtful finishes that make this penthouse truly feel like home. Owners can even choose between two distinct design atmospheres, allowing a personal touch while maintaining the refined style of a luxury hotel.
Practical comforts are also well covered, with two cellars, a private ski locker with boot warmers, and two covered parking spaces, ensuring effortless convenience after a day on the slopes.
This is an exceptional opportunity to own one of La Tania’s most exclusive properties — a perfect blend of Alpine authenticity and modern sophistication, right in the heart of the world’s largest ski area.
Courchevel Getting Ready For Opening Day!
The piste bashing has started with S3V teams now hard at work preparing the slopes for the opening “preview” day on Friday 5 December. La Tania and the 3 Valleys links open Saturday 6 December 2025.
With limited skiing on the Friday there will be 30% off a single day pass (both 1 day and 4 hour passes).
On the opening weekend there’s a full programme of events to celebrate the start of the Winter 2025 / 2026 season.
• 08:30 to 10:00 – DJ set and complimentary breakfast to start the day off right
• 08:30 to 16:30 – HEAD Ski Test and Games and Activities organized by Courchevel Tourism (Wheel of Fortune, Laser Shooting, prizes to win)
• 15:00 to 16:30 – Complimentary aperitif tasting and live music to end the day
What’s New in La Tania & The Three Valleys 2026 – The Definitive Guide
How to get a discounted 3 Valleys (or Courchevel / La Tania) Season Pass for 2025 / 2026
Opening Day Friday 5 December
Lifts Scheduled from Saturday 6 December

Lifts Scheduled from Saturday 13 December

Experience Panoramic Alpine Views Beyond the Ski Slopes
When the word “Alps” appears in conversation, immediately visions of snow-capped mountains, endless blue skies and people all bundled up and zooming down the slopes on their skis come to mind. While these are all definitive parts of any Alpine experience for most Alpine visitors, ski experiences aren’t all that’s on offer in the Alps, and winter isn’t the only time to get your dose of Alpine beauty in. Many quaint Alpine towns and viewpoints that will take your breath away have little to do with ski culture and more with the pristine beauty of these mountainous regions and the unique cultures and practices that still flourish there. Let’s take a closer look.
Best Alpine Travel Solutions
As a rugged and mountainous region, many of the best and most exclusive Alpine destinations are challenging (and time-consuming) to access by road or rail. Choosing a helicopter charter to get around the Alps offers convenience, luxury and access that other travellers simply don’t have access to. Suppose you’re travelling to an alpine region. In that case, you may wish to disembark your incoming flight at a central city hub, such as Munich, Zurich, or Vienna, and then take a connection to a destination like Innsbruck or Cortina d’Ampezzo. From there, you can book a helicopter trip to more remote destinations. Not only does this make your trip a far more seamless experience, but it also opens up a selection of views that, even from the highest points of the mountains, no one can access except from the air.
Best Alpine Hikes
Chamonix to Zermatt Trekkers Haute Route
Between Chamonix and Zermatt, there lies a route initially established by mountaineers, but now also suited to walkers with a lot of stamina and a higher fitness level. Immerse yourself in the magic of the Trekkers Route and take in heavenly views of the peaks of Dent Blanche, Zinalrothorn, Weisshorn and others at 4000m+.
Mont Blanc Rambler
A far easier, but no less visually stunning route, the Mont Blanc Rambler is a comfortably paced walk that takes you through picturesque villages, shining Alpine meadows and other parts of the Mont Blanc region. There’s no shortage of gorgeous stops along the way for delicious alpine cuisine, immaculate views and fascinating Alpine culture.
Via Ferrata Guided Walk
If you don’t mind a little “living on the edge” (literally), taking a guided walk through the Dolomites will be right up your alley. You’ll move through the mountains from the top down and use the cables and iron ladders that help the brave make their way. You’ll see world-famous peaks and experience some of the freshest air and most pristine locations on the planet.
Most Charming Alpine Towns
Annecy, France
Winter or summer, Annecy is one of the prettiest and most welcoming places in the Alps. Nestled near the Swiss border, this town is known as the Venice of the Alps, thanks to the canals lacing their way through the streets and its bright, flower-covered (in summer) bridges. The pastel hues of the Old Town are calming and restful, and since the location sits right next to one of the cleanest lakes in Europe, you won’t want for gorgeous views. In the summer months, Annecy is a paradise of outdoor experiences: sidewalk cafes thrive, the lake glints under the sun, the sun sets late, and life is laid back at its fastest. Winter brings warm drinks, hearty meals, and a new wave of outdoor activities like skiing and snowshoeing.
Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
Of all the glacial valleys in Switzerland, the one that holds Lauterbrunnen must be one of the loveliest. The vertical cliffs and 72 magnificent, tumbling waterfalls surrounding the village are beautiful enough on their own. Still, the town brings a cinematic kind of beauty to the area. Proximity to car-free villages like Wengen and Mürren adds an extra interesting aspect to a trip here, and mountain adventures abound.
Vipiteno (Sterzing), Italy
Right on the northern edge of the South Tyrol region in Italy, Vipiteno or Sterzig (its German name) offers visitors a unique blend of Italian and Alpine lifestyle and character. What was once no more than a medieval training post is now a relaxed escape, favoured particularly in the summer. Winding cobbled streets, soft pastels on the walls of the homes, cable cars to exceptional views, forest trails to stroll, and delicious Alpine cuisine make it a charming stay.
Best Alpine Views
Muottas Muragl
Peace and good relations have made a home at Muottas Muragl, where time moves slowly than usual. People come to this beautiful spot to step out of their fast-paced lives and move consciously through their days while drinking in the views of the Upper Engadin. The Romantik Hotel offers opulent accommodations, and its restaurants provide international and local fare, making you return for more every time.
Gornergrat
Located just above Zermatt in Switzerland, the Gornergrat viewpoint provides sensational (360-degree) views of the Matterhorn and the 29 neighbouring peaks and the sparkling, serene Gorner Glacier. Take a ride to the location on the Gornergrat cogwheel train, which is an experience all on its own. There are excellent hiking trails here for all skill levels, a selection of restaurants and many spots to take in the scenery.
Monte Brè
The views in Monte Brè are spectacular: looking over Lake Lugano and the Alps beyond will leave you irrevocably changed! This location is truly special, a favourite among hikers and nature enthusiasts, and a charming destination in summer. Take the funicular, bus, or hike up to the summit and immerse yourself in the stunning mountain scenery. Enjoy paved trails, restaurants offering rich Alpine cuisine, and a relaxed atmosphere.
In the Mountains
The Alps are a place of ever-changing beauty, joy, and entertainment, both outdoor and indoor. Take your time, take a break, and enjoy some of the most stunning scenery worldwide.
Discover La Tania’s Winter Sports Scene
La Tania Accepts the Challenge: Skiing, Snowboarding, and the Rhythm of Winter
Not many resorts in the French Alps are as relatively quiet as their more rowdy counterparts, Courchevel and Méribel. Yet it is this silence that renders it special. La Tania, in the heart of the Three Valleys, presents an exclusive combination of a sense of remoteness, accessibility to 600 kilometers of terrain, and the atmosphere in which winter sports do not seem to be as much business as lifestyle. In this case, one does not have to balance comfort and hardship at all; everything is already at his disposal.

Beyond the Piste: When the Slopes Are Only the Start
The resort of La Tania ceased being another bar many years ago. In its terrain and location, it forms the best base that one would find, with not only groomed piste but also freeride. Steep couloirs and the forest trails are opened by the Dou des Lanches lift, where each turn is a thing. And from the top of Col de la Loze, you can then lower yourself to the runs of Méribel, on tracks that cannot wait long before they devour you and can only reward you with memories that you will never forget. An equivalent adrenaline injection, albeit not so literal, is offered by live horse racing offers at 1xBet Ireland, but of course without the snow.
And snow is what La Tana plenteously gets, especially in the months of January and February when the covering is at its deepest. The microclimate and north-facing runs guarantee a constant cover, although the resort is not that high (1400 m, the height of the resort). This is more especially important to those who plan to go off-piste, where fresh powder will last longer than in the high places in the sunshine.
Snowboarding Culture: From Forest Runs to Fun Parks
La Tania has been a favorite resort among snowboarders because of its natural half pipes, the wooded runs, and the fact that it is in proximity to Courchevel and the Méribel parks. Yet even remaining in the village, there is much to be seen:
- Natural forest trail, perfect jibbing and freestyle;
- Close proximity to DC Area 43 Snowpark in Méribel and Family Park in Courchevel;
- Slopes that have moderate traffic of skiers, and, therefore, the possibility of collisions is reduced.
But in addition to this, La Tania remains friendly to beginners despite being dubbed as a resort for high-level riders. Further down the resort are wide blue and green tracks that make great first-time strides, where schools like ESF and Magic Ski School train children and adults in small group lessons as well as in personal lessons.
In the meantime, the more seasoned skiers will be able to challenge the Bouc Blanc descent or challenge themselves with the black descents to Courchevel 1850. And though La Tania is not a place of dramatic elevation gain, its topography does permit the ability to travel between easy cruising levels and actual serious challenges within just one day.
Other winter activities are offered to thrill-seekers:
| Activity | Location | Skill level | Equipment rental | Guided option |
| Off-piste skiing | Dou des Lanches forest | Advanced | Yes | Yes |
| Snowshoeing | La Tania forest trails | Beginner | Yes | Yes |
| Dog sledding | Courchevel valley | All levels | Included | Yes |
| Ice climbing | Brides-les-Bains area | Intermediate + | Yes | Yes |
| Night skiing | Bouc Blanc (selected days) | Intermediate | Yes | No |
| Cross-country skiing | Méribel Altiport trails | Beginner+ | Yes | Optional |
All of these activities add to the experience of living in La Tania. And while the resort is not trying for “trendiest,” it is precisely this modesty that makes it ideal for those who value substance rather than style. It’s night strolls along snow-covered streets, dinner at Le Farçon with its Michelin-starred badge, and breakfast at Pub Le Ski Lodge, where the day’s itinerary is planned.
Despite all its compactness, the infrastructure is meticulously designed right down to detail, from hire shops to village cheese and wine sellers. And while nightlife might not be as hectic as that found in Val Thorens, it’s the snugness that’s so appealing. Evenings are spent not on the dance floors of the clubs, but in conversations by the fireside or on a balcony surveying snow-covered pines.
Final Thoughts: When Depth Is More Important Than Height
La Tania does not scream about itself. It simply does what it’s meant to do — offers access to the best skiing in the Alps without losing its soul. And while all the Three Valleys resorts are different, it’s La Tania that lets you feel winter not as a service, but as a state of mind.
Val Thorens Pre-Opening Day for Club Val Tho Members
Details of the Club Val Tho pre-opening day in Val Thorens on Friday 21 November 2025 have been released.
The free to join club has been running this ever since COVID and although there is limited skiing available it’s a free day with free parking, free breakfast, a free lunch and a great atmosphere the day before the official opening day.
Registration is required and the deadline is noon on 3 November 2025. Register here
There’s also coach services from Ski Mania from Lyon (leaving 05:30am) & Chambéry (subject to availability) plus Altibus shuttle from Moûtiers. Details available from the registration page.



































































