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
Spectating The Winter Sports Circuit From The Three Valleys
Spectating The Winter Sports Circuit From The Three Valleys as inLiving in La Tania puts you right in the middle of one of the biggest ski areas in the world. While most visitors come here to slide down the hill themselves, the Three Valleys also hosts some incredible professional competitions that are well worth watching. You might find yourself sharing a gondola with a future champion or hearing the roar of the crowd from the valley below. Watching the professionals at work offers a fresh way to appreciate the mountains. This guide helps you get closer to the events without needing race skis of your own.
Snow Circuit Tips
Major competitions like the FIS World Cup often touch down in nearby Courchevel. The atmosphere changes completely when the professional teams arrive in town. You notice the safety fences going up and the steeper runs turning into formidable sheets of ice. Seeing these athletes tackle the famous L’Eclipse piste in person is completely different from watching it on a television screen. The speed they carry through the turns defies belief, and the sound is incredible. Finding the right spot to watch requires some early planning on your part. You should check the official race program weeks in advance to know exactly when the first racer leaves the start gate.
Keeping up with the live timing and detailed lists of competitors adds to the excitement of the day. Many enthusiasts look for sources that offer real-time data to follow every split second of the race. It is common to check international sports portals, foreign news outlets, or non UK betting companies to find specific rider statistics or global rankings that local broadcasters might miss. These platforms often list detailed form guides and injury reports that serious fans find useful for tracking the field. They frequently cover markets and regions that standard news sites ignore. Having this information on your phone or laptop allows you to know who is coming down the course next and why they matter.
Slope Side Crowds
Standing by the finish line offers the most electric experience during a big race weekend. The noise levels rise as the skiers approach the final jump before the timing beam. Cowbells ring out across the mountain, and flags from every nation wave in the cold air. You can feel the tension build with every racer who crosses the line in search of a green light. The best viewing areas fill up quickly, so getting there early is wise. Security checks are common at these entry points now. You will want to dress warmly since you might be standing still in the snow for hours while the sun drops behind the peaks.
Moving slightly up the course away from the main grandstand often provides a better view of the technical sections. You can see the racers fighting for grip on the icy surface with immense power. The sound of metal edges biting into the hard snow is distinct and impressive from close range. Friendly groups often gather in these sections to cheer for their favourites and share the moment. Bringing a hot drink and some snacks makes the wait between runs much more comfortable. You get a real sense of the steep gradient when you stand right next to the safety netting and look down.
Freestyle Showcase Energy
Winter sports in the Three Valleys extend well beyond traditional racing. Throughout the season, nearby resorts regularly host freestyle ski and snowboard showcases that deliver a completely different kind of spectacle. These events transform snow parks into open-air arenas where riders launch themselves off huge kickers with fearless confidence. Watching an athlete spin through the air with the valley stretching out behind them is a striking contrast to the precision of alpine racing. Crowds gather along the sides of the course, music fills the cold air, and the whole slope takes on the feel of an outdoor festival. The atmosphere is lively, colourful, and full of anticipation for the next big trick.
The competitive edge becomes clear once the demonstrations begin. Riders push themselves to land ever more technical manoeuvres, fighting for clean grabs, tight rotations, and controlled landings on firm snow. You can see the level of focus it takes as they drop in, gain speed and commit fully to the jump. The suspense builds with each attempt, and the collective reaction from the crowd when someone nails a demanding trick adds to the excitement. These showcases reveal another layer of mountain culture in the Three Valleys. They remind you that skiing and snowboarding are not just about getting from top to bottom, but also about creativity and expression, all set against one of the most dramatic alpine backdrops in the world.
Resort Bus Links
Getting to these events from La Tania requires understanding the local transport network. The free ski bus system connects the villages efficiently and runs regularly. During major events, the buses can get very busy with fans moving between the resorts. Leaving plenty of time for your journey prevents stress and missed starts. You might need to change buses in Le Praz or Courchevel 1850, depending on your final destination. The drivers know the roads well and keep everything moving even in heavy snow. Standing on a packed bus is part of the race day experience.
Returning home after the podium ceremony can take longer than expected. Crowds tend to leave all at once when the action finishes. Sharing a taxi is sometimes a good option if the bus queues look too long or cold. The road down to La Tania winds through the forest and offers nice views of the valley lights. Planning your return trip before you leave is always a smart move. You can be back in your chalet with a warm drink while others are still waiting in the cold. It is the perfect end to a day of adrenaline.
Chilly Days in La Tania: Relaxing Fireside Activities for Snowy Weather
La Tania is a picture-perfect destination for winter enthusiasts. While the resort offers exhilarating days on the slopes, the evenings can be just as magical. When the snow falls, and the chill sets in, there’s nothing better than curling up by the fire with a hot drink in hand. Whether you’re staying in a cosy chalet or a mountain lodge, there are plenty of activities to enjoy by the warmth of the fire, making your stay in La Tania even more memorable.
A Good Book to Escape the Cold
One of the best ways to spend a snowy day indoors is by getting lost in a good book. The quiet, snowy landscape outside your window and the crackling sound of the fire create the perfect atmosphere for reading. If you’re someone who enjoys fiction, pick up a novel that transports you to a different world, allowing you to immerse yourself in another reality while the snow piles up outside. For those who prefer non-fiction, consider diving into a travel book or a mountaineering adventure that lets you connect with the mountains and the outdoors, even from the comfort of your living room.
Playing Online Games
For a more interactive way to pass the time, online gaming can be a fun and engaging option. Whether you enjoy immersive video games, casual games, or online casino gaming, there’s something to suit every interest. Video games offer a chance to explore new worlds and stories, while casual games provide easy and light entertainment. Online casino games offer a strategic challenge, letting you engage with classic casino favourites like poker, slots, or blackjack from the comfort of your chalet.
Bettors visiting La Tania can easily access a variety of casino games online with just a few clicks. Some visitors play on sites that are regulated in their home country, but a growing number are turning to offshore sites that are licensed internationally. For example, bettors visiting from the UK often seek out international non GamStop casinos to play on because these sites avoid the UK’s strict rules and offer benefits, like flexibility and game variety, that are not always easily found on other sites.
These gaming options are a great way to unwind after a day outdoors and can add a bit of excitement to your downtime. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or a bit of friendly competition, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Journaling or Sketching the Mountain Views
If you’re the creative type, journaling or sketching can be an incredibly relaxing and meditative way to spend a fireside afternoon. With La Tania’s breathtaking mountain scenery just outside the window, you can use your journal to capture your thoughts or jot down memorable moments from your trip. Reflect on your ski runs, the beauty of the snow-covered trees, or the unique culture of the French Alps.
Alternatively, you could take up sketching or drawing. Even if you’re not a professional artist, sketching the stunning landscapes around you can be a soothing activity. Whether you’re trying to capture the rolling hills of the Alps or the intricate details of the winter trees, putting pencil to paper offers a wonderful way to focus your mind and engage with your surroundings in a quiet, thoughtful way.
Watching Films or Listening to Music
After an active day on the ski slopes, curling up with a good film or some calming music can be the perfect way to wind down. La Tania has plenty of chalets and hotels with large-screen TVs, some even offering access to streaming services for the latest films or classic favourites. Choose a feel-good film, a cosy romantic comedy, or perhaps a mountain-themed documentary that connects you to the landscape around you.
If you’re not in the mood for a film, music is another great way to set the mood. Put on some relaxing tunes that match the tranquil ambience of the snow-covered mountains. Classical music or soothing jazz can help you unwind and reflect on the day. Alternatively, you could listen to podcasts or audiobooks, especially if you’re keen to learn something new or be entertained while staying snug by the fire.
Hot Drinks and Gourmet Treats
No fireside experience is complete without a warm, comforting drink. Whether it’s a hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a rich cup of tea, these drinks offer the perfect way to relax and enjoy the moment. You can even get creative with your own hot cocoa by adding custom toppings like crushed biscuits, flavoured syrups, or a dash of chilli for some extra warmth. The colder the day outside, the more satisfying it is to curl up with a hot drink in hand and enjoy the warmth of the fire.
If you’re staying in a chalet with a fully equipped kitchen, why not take the opportunity to indulge in some homemade treats? Consider baking a loaf of freshly made bread, preparing a hot bowl of soup, or enjoying some locally sourced cheeses and pastries. The French Alps are known for their delicious food, so take advantage of the chance to savour local delicacies while you unwind by the fire.
Conclusion
Chilly days in La Tania offer the perfect opportunity to slow down, relax, and unwind by the fire. Whether you’re enjoying a good book, engaging in creative activities, playing games, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere, there’s no shortage of ways to pass the time indoors. These relaxing fireside activities not only help you recover from a day on the slopes but also allow you to fully appreciate the beautiful alpine surroundings, making your winter escape to La Tania all the more memorable.
Courchevel Opening “Preview” Day – Marvellous Conditions!
Opening day pics from the usual #LaTania Locals First Lift suspects… It got out nice with some blue sky later!
How is Skiing Content on Social Media Inspiring a New Wave of Winter Holidaymakers?
Skiing used to be somewhat of a niche winter sport that only a few people in your friendship
circle may have partaken in. Now, though, it’s becoming mainstream, and more people than
ever are booking skiing holidays. Indeed, eight per cent of UK adults have now been on a
snowsports holiday at some point.
There are loads of factors that are contributing to this increase, and ski influencers may be
among those. There has been a notable rise in people streaming content from ski resorts in
recent years, giving people a taste of what they can expect if they book a snowy holiday.
Creators Are Making Skiing Feel More Accessible
For some people, ski holidays have always felt like a pipe dream. Thanks to ski influencers,
though, it’s becoming more accessible. That’s because these experts are helping to break
down the costs involved, such as flight tickets, resort prices, and ski lessons. Rather than get
information from companies trying to sell the holidays, it’s now easier to get honest opinions
from people who have experienced it all.
Travel influencers have blown up in recent years, and it seems that people can’t get enough
of this type of content. It’s no surprise that a lot of these bloggers visit ski resorts too, as
there’s clearly a huge audience out there that enjoys the escapism that wintery videos can
offer. There are loads of huge names leading the charge with skiing content creation,
including legendary freeskier Candide Thovex and YouTube personality Jesper Tjäder.
Live Streaming Makes People Feel Like They’re on the Slopes
This type of content wasn’t even possible a couple of decades ago. Thanks to rapid
advancements in video and technology over the last few years, it’s now possible for people to
post quality content on a low budget. All you need now is a GoPro camera and some editing
software, and you can post top quality videos to social media platforms.
The live streaming boom over the last few years has allowed for an even greater connection
between people at home and content creators on the slopes. People have grown accustomed
to this format through entertainment offerings, such as platforms like Twitch that allow
people to watch streamers playing games. The online bingo market has helped push this
technology into the mainstream as well. Nowadays, most bingo brands also have sites
which host to a wide range of games, with many casino classics hosted by real dealers and
live streamed to players at home.
Now, some ski streamers are capitalising on the popularity of live streaming and using it to
their advantage as well. It can make people feel like they are travelling down the slopes with
the streamers in real time. There’s also the opportunity to comment on the videos and
contribute to the content by asking the influencers to do things.
When virtual reality comes to the fore in the next few years, there could be even more
immersive ways to enjoy content from ski streamers. Imagine putting on a headset and seeing
a live stream of a ski slope from a skier’s perspective. When that happens, it will surely
encourage even more people to book skiing holidays.
Making the Most of Bad Weather Days in La Tania and Beyond
Bad weather days in the Alps can be a real disappointment during planned ski holidays. The Three Valleys ski area, including La Tania, occasionally faces days when heavy snowfall, strong winds or poor visibility make hitting the slopes less appealing. Rather than wasting these days staring glumly out of chalet windows, experienced visitors know there are plenty of alternatives for enjoying their downtime.
La Tania’s central position in the Three Valleys provides excellent access to a range of indoor activities and cultural experiences when the weather changes. From relaxing spa treatments to discovering local Savoyard villages, these bad-weather options can become unexpected trip highlights. Many seasoned skiers even plan for these days in advance, knowing that a well-rounded Alpine trip includes more than just time on the pistes.
Those travelling with family, friends or as a couple will find that knowing what to do during unsettled weather can turn potential disappointment into memorable experiences. Having information on where to go and what’s available both in La Tania itself and the surrounding areas of Courchevel, Méribel and further afield makes all the difference.
Bad Weather Patterns in La Tania and When to Expect Them
The Three Valleys is known for its extensive ski area, with La Tania sitting at around 1,400 metres elevation. January and early February are often associated with periods of challenging weather, while December and March are generally thought to have more stable conditions for skiing.
Local weather forecasts in La Tania provide details about visibility, wind speeds, and snowfall at different altitudes. When checking forecasts, pay attention to wind speeds. High winds above 50km/h can sometimes lead to lift closures for safety reasons.
On days when conditions prevent skiing altogether, having alternative plans becomes important. Visitors often look for bad weather activities in La Tania or pass the time by enjoying indoor entertainment such as betting on football matches while waiting for conditions to improve.
Signs of improving weather include rising temperatures after snowfall and decreasing wind speeds. Local knowledge helps, so check with ski instructors about their weather predictions for information beyond official forecasts.
Weather-Protected Skiing Areas in the Three Valleys
Even during challenging weather, certain areas in the Three Valleys remain skiable. La Tania offers sheltered tree-lined runs Three Valleys that protect from wind and allow for better visibility during snowfall. The forest canopy breaks up falling snow and creates visual contrast on the ground.
Lower altitude runs below 2000m are often said to offer better visibility during cloudy conditions. The Courchevel valley, particularly the areas between La Tania and Courchevel 1550, provides numerous protected options. The Folyères and Murettes sectors are known to rarely close due to weather conditions.
The gondola systems in La Tania and Courchevel are more weather-resistant than chair lifts. They often continue to operate during moderate snowfall. When high winds affect higher altitudes, sticking with these lower, sheltered areas can save a skiing day.
La Tania’s Best Bad-Weather Runs
The Plan Fontaine green run from the top of La Tania gondola offers strong tree cover and gentle gradients. This makes it suitable for beginners during poor visibility. Its wide piste allows for comfortable navigation even when visibility is limited.
Intermediate skiers enjoy the Moretta run, which provides a tree-lined descent through beautiful pine forests. This run is known for maintaining good snow quality due to its northerly aspect and tree cover. The varied terrain keeps skiing interesting while trees offer helpful visibility markers.
When skiing in poor visibility La Tania, using the tree line as a reference point helps with orientation. Skiing closer to the edge of the piste where trees create definition makes it easier to judge snow contours.
Indoor Activities and Facilities in La Tania
La Tania offers several ways to stay entertained when the weather shifts. The village leisure centre provides a swimming pool, which is open daily during winter. Day passes are available for adults and children. Opening times are available locally.
Spa facilities such as Le Montana offer treatments to visitors seeking relaxation. Booking ahead is advised during busy weeks. These wellness facilities create a comfortable retreat away from the elements.
La Tania restaurants provide warm shelter from the storms outside. Lunch at Le Farçon turns a bad-weather day into something special. Simpler fare comes from Pub Le Snow Food, where visitors find a relaxed environment.
French cooking classes present classic Savoyard recipes such as tartiflette and fondue. Local restaurants host these sessions, which run mostly during peak season. Learning from regional chefs teaches skills guests can bring home.
Family-Friendly Indoor Options
La Tania rainy day options for families include the local library during peak holiday periods. The children’s section includes picture books and early readers in several languages. During February half term, storytelling hours keep young children engaged when outdoor play is not possible.
The tourist office organizes workshops for ages 4 to 12 throughout the season. Children create painted crafts or handmade paper masks. These activities offer creative outlets when weather prevents skiing.
The sports centre indoor climbing wall gives high-energy children a place to burn off steam. Advance bookings are often recommended on days when ski lifts close. Parents appreciate that sessions run under supervision from certified instructors.
Day Trips and Excursions from La Tania
When weather forecasts predict full-day closures, visiting places beyond La Tania becomes appealing. Regular buses connect La Tania to Moûtiers, with the journey taking approximately 45 minutes. The Tuesday and Friday markets in Moûtiers offer local produce, cheeses, and handicrafts.
Albertville, host of the 1992 Winter Olympics, lies about an hour away by car or public transport. Its medieval old town, Conflans, features well-preserved architecture and several museums. The Olympic Museum provides historical background for visitors to the region.
Heritage enthusiasts can visit the baroque churches route through picturesque mountain villages. Many buildings feature stunning frescoes and gold leaf decoration that reflect the regional religious history.
Guided tours to local cheese producers operate throughout the season. The Coopérative laitière de Moûtiers shows traditional Beaufort cheese production. Meanwhile, the vineyards around Apremont specialise in crisp white wines that complement Savoyard cuisine.
Transport options include the regular bus service, taxis which can be shared to reduce costs, and rental cars available in Moûtiers. Most excursions can be arranged through La Tania tourist office with a day or two’s notice. This makes them ideal for days when the weather forecast looks poor.
Using these options, visitors can turn potentially disappointing bad weather days into memorable experiences. These Three Valleys indoor activities add to the skiing holiday and give a broader sense of this beautiful Alpine region. When planning your trip, keep in mind that many venues welcome advance bookings, especially during peak season.
Beaujolais Day! La Tania locals brace the cold and head to Le Praz…
It’s that time of year again! The usual suspects head down to Le Praz to La Descente Bar on a bitterly cold night to try the new Beaujolais following a pre-drink Pizza at the new Casa Alpina Italian restaurant.
Shout out to Charlie for driving and Freeride Ralph for the pics.
Lewis grabbed the last bottle of the night!
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.












































































