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
Five intrepid Méribel chalet hosts, a day off that would hopefully have (a) enough snow and (b) decent enough weather, and the alarms were set to make first lifts in Chaudanne. That was the first challenge, as we were spaced across Les Allues, Morel and Mussillon and let’s face it, we’re not exactly known for being up and way so early!
As others have noted, Verdets was closed but the first tracks down to Cherferie chair were more than rewarding. We had fabulous runs across the first part of the morning, but noted the snow was softening rapidly and by the time we’d completed La Masse, the slush was starting to develop.
Val Thorens was very nearly our undoing. The lift queues were awful, we waited around 15 minutes for Peclet, the same for Thorens, and everything was stop start once we were on board. As we finally headed to Mont Vallon we had all downgraded our expectations of completion, and the moguls of Vallon tried to kill it off all together!
On mogul weary legs we skated along Ours and made our way to our favourite ski areas in Courchevel. We knew this part of the route well and although the snow was now pretty ropey, it was fun to be there and the mood picked up. We hit La Tania at 4pm and figured we could actually do this, so long as we didn’t have any more lift issues. The ‘soupe’ down Lapin was our final chairlift dash and we were travelling back up to Altiport with 15 minutes to spare – phew!
Thank it was a leisurely mooch down to Chaudanne and we were done and well ready for a pint (or two).
The day was a success, we were all pretty tired but having the exact route written out on a scrap of paper, and marked on a piste map, and having pack ups ready to devour on the lifts, enabled us to crack on with the skiing. We think we could shave over an hour off our time with the co-operation of the lifts, but all told, we’re just thrilled to have completed the Escapade during our 3V season! It was an excellent day!
Participants: Aaron Brooks-Thornett; Violetta Mihhailova; Ela Kucharska; Shay & Rick Boyfield
The 3 Valleys Escapade was the lift company promotion of visiting (originally in 2006) 14 points across the Three Valleys and gaining a certificate & badge over the period of your holiday – doing it in a day was a bit tricky though!
Originally punch cards had to be stamped at each check point until electronic passes arrived and then the use of a lift was recorded – now we use Apps such as Ski Tracks or Relive to prove our route.
Note that the Escapade is no longer officially promoted by Les 3 Vallees from Winter 2017 but we still record successful tracks for anyone who is interested in being in the sought after La Tania Escapade Hall of Fame
The original Escapade took 30 lifts, around 13000m vertical with 70km length and by 2016 reached 34 lifts, 17000m vertical (twice the height of Everest) and around 100km.
This is NOT a race
ALWAYS CONTROL YOUR SPEED. You do this entirely at your own risk, act responsibly, take full ownership for your own actions and all of those with you, respect other people (& the mountain), ski & ride within your limits, always obey the skiers & snowboarders code, observe all signs, pay attention to all notices, advice & instructions from Pisteurs, only ski off piste if fully equipped & knowledgeable, it’s not a race (you won’t be insured), think about the safety of others as well as yourself but above all, think of other people, take care, don’t wreck things for others & don’t even think of blaming anyone else if it all goes wrong…..
ESCAPADE 2023 – The 12 villages and 12 perimeters/peaks used as checkpoints
Changes through the years 2006 – First year and cards with hole punches stationed at lifties huts are used. 2008 – Electronic lift analysis is now used – no use hiking out the 4th Valley now! 2010 – The piste map did not include the top of the 4th Valley and the Col lift in Val Thorens. 2011 – The X-Wing Discovery was launched but only had 10 check points and doesn’t count! 2012 – Peclet included and Biollay / Vizelle used for Saulire access. 2015 – Foret used instead of La Tania gondola. 2016 – Mont Vallon is included for the first time plus the Montaulever drag lift. 2017 – Chapelets replaced by Petite Boss drag and La Tania’s Bouc Blanc chair replaces Tovets. 2018 – The new Roc de Tougne chair replaces the drag lift of the same name. 2019 – Legends replaces Roc de Fer and the Montaulever drag in Les Menuires has been removed. 2020 – Cime Caron now back in use. 2022 – New Pointe de la Masse and Orelle-Caron Gondolas (for example) could be used. 2023 – Using the new lifts, we ski all the resorts, all the perimeters and classic peaks – ESCAPADE 2023
ESCAPADE 2023 – A suggested route. Click on the images for the full size pics
La Tania is a stunning alpine resort nestled in the heart of the French Alps. With its picturesque scenery, charming alpine village, and endless opportunities for adventure, La Tania is a paradise for anyone seeking an unforgettable holiday. And if you’re looking for the coolest things to do while you’re here, we’ve got you covered. From hitting the slopes at the La Tania Ski Resort to exploring the vibrant art and culture scene, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking thrills, relaxation, or cultural immersion, La Tania offers something for everyone. So, buckle up and get ready for an adventure-packed journey through the 7 coolest things to do on holiday in La Tania.
1. Hit the Slopes at La Tania Ski Resort
If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, hitting the slopes at the La Tania Ski Resort is an absolute must-do while on holiday in La Tania. With over 150 kilometers of slopes and an elevation of up to 3,230 meters, the ski resort is a dream come true for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
The resort offers a variety of runs to suit your skill level. And if you’re looking to take your skiing or snowboarding to the next level, the resort also offers private or group lessons with experienced instructors.
But it’s not just about the skiing and snowboarding here; the stunning alpine scenery is truly breathtaking and is sure to make your skiing experience even more memorable. So get ready to hit the slopes and experience the rush of adrenaline as you glide down the pristine slopes at the La Tania Ski Resort.
2. Indoor Games to play in La Tania
La Tania is a fantastic destination for outdoor winter sports, but what about indoor fun? Fear not, there are plenty of games to play in La Tania that will keep you and your friends or family entertained for hours. Board games like Monopoly or Risk are classic choices for a cozy night in, but if you prefer online games, try out the coolest online casinos, which offer poker, roulette, and various other games.
If you’re looking for something more active, why not challenge your companions to a game of pool or darts at a local bar or go sledge racing. You could even organize a friendly tournament with prizes for the winners.
Whatever your preference, there are plenty of games to play in La Tania that will add some extra excitement and fun to your holiday. Contact the Tourist Office for further details.
3. Explore the Stunning Alpine Scenery on a Snowmobile Tour
If you’re looking for a breathtaking way to experience the stunning alpine scenery of La Tania, then a snowmobile tour is an adventure not to be missed.
Imagine whizzing through the pristine snow, taking in the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, and feeling the wind in your hair as you ride. With a variety of tours available, you can choose from a range of options, including daytime or nighttime tours, solo or tandem rides, and tours with varying levels of difficulty.
Don’t worry if you’ve never ridden a snowmobile before, experienced guides will provide you with a safety briefing and teach you the basics before you set off on your adventure. And if you’re lucky, you may even spot some local wildlife such as deer, chamois, or even foxes along the way. So, put on your warm clothes, buckle up your helmet, and get ready for an exhilarating ride through the stunning alpine scenery of Courchevel on a snowmobile tour.
4. Experience a Traditional Savoyard Meal at a Local Restaurant
If you’re a foodie looking to experience the local cuisine while on holiday in La Tania, then a traditional Savoyard meal at a local restaurant is a must-try experience. Savoyard cuisine is known for its hearty, filling dishes that are perfect for warming you up after a day out in the cold.
Think melted cheese, potatoes, cured meats, and rich sauces. One of the most popular dishes is the classic fondue, which involves dipping bread into a pot of melted cheese and is often shared among groups of friends or family.
Other traditional dishes include tartiflette, a potato gratin with bacon and reblochon cheese, and raclette, where cheese is melted and scraped onto a plate of potatoes, meats, and pickled vegetables. And of course, no meal in the French Alps would be complete without a glass of local wine or a warming shot of genepi, a traditional herbal liqueur.
5. Enjoy a Sleigh Ride Through the Scenic French Alps
For an unforgettable experience in La Tania, taking a sleigh ride through the scenic French Alps is a must. Wrapped up warm in blankets, you’ll glide through the snow-covered landscape, taking in the stunning alpine scenery around you.
As you ride, you’ll be able to appreciate the tranquillity of the mountains, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of local wildlife such as deer or mountain goats.
You can opt for a private sleigh ride for a more intimate experience or join a group tour for a fun and social outing. Many tours even offer the chance to stop for a hot drink or an traditional Savoyard meal along the way, adding to the overall experience.
6. Visit the Charming Alpine Village of Courchevel Le Praz
Courchevel Le Praz is a charming mountain town that is not far from La Tania. It is a must-see for anyone on vacation in La Tania because of its traditional building and cobblestone streets. Le Praz has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for brand shops, fine restaurants, or just a cosy place to sip a coffee and take in the scene.
If you want to try something new, you can take a beautiful lift ride to the top of the mountain to see some of the best views of the area.
7. Go Ice Skating
Want to do something fun and festive with your friends or family in La Tania? Look no further than the ice rink in Courchevel 1850.
Whether you’ve skated before or this is your first time, the rink has something for everyone, and you can rent skates there. Skate around the rink to the sound of upbeat music and the laughter of other skaters and take in the beautiful mountain views as you go. The rink also has regular events and activities with themes, like family-friendly skating lessons.
With blue skies forecasted on 22nd March 2023 father and daughter, Sean and Annie Frankham, along with good friend Neil Milne set off on the Escapade Challenge.
The trio met at 8:50 at the Praz lift (because Foret was closed) with a clear plan and edible supplies. Conditions where brilliant across all four valleys, so were all the people who asked what we were up to and wished us luck as we carried on our way.
After 7hrs:27mins, at 16:17 the team returned and headed straight to the Les Peupliers Hotel in Le Praz Courchevel for a celebratory drink!
Annie
ESCAPADE 2023 – What’s this all about…
The 3 Valleys Escapade was the lift company promotion of visiting (originally in 2006) 14 points across the Three Valleys and gaining a certificate & badge over the period of your holiday – doing it in a day was a bit tricky though!
Originally punch cards had to be stamped at each check point until electronic passes arrived and then the use of a lift was recorded – now we use Apps such as Ski Tracks or Relive to prove our route.
Note that the Escapade is no longer officially promoted by Les 3 Vallees from Winter 2017 but we still record successful tracks for anyone who is interested in being in the sought after La Tania Escapade Hall of Fame
The original Escapade took 30 lifts, around 13000m vertical with 70km length and by 2016 reached 34 lifts, 17000m vertical (twice the height of Everest) and around 100km.
This is NOT a race
ALWAYS CONTROL YOUR SPEED. You do this entirely at your own risk, act responsibly, take full ownership for your own actions and all of those with you, respect other people (& the mountain), ski & ride within your limits, always obey the skiers & snowboarders code, observe all signs, pay attention to all notices, advice & instructions from Pisteurs, only ski off piste if fully equipped & knowledgeable, it’s not a race (you won’t be insured), think about the safety of others as well as yourself but above all, think of other people, take care, don’t wreck things for others & don’t even think of blaming anyone else if it all goes wrong…..
ESCAPADE 2023 – The 12 villages and 12 perimeters/peaks used as checkpoints
Changes through the years 2006 – First year and cards with hole punches stationed at lifties huts are used. 2008 – Electronic lift analysis is now used – no use hiking out the 4th Valley now! 2010 – The piste map did not include the top of the 4th Valley and the Col lift in Val Thorens. 2011 – The X-Wing Discovery was launched but only had 10 check points and doesn’t count! 2012 – Peclet included and Biollay / Vizelle used for Saulire access. 2015 – Foret used instead of La Tania gondola. 2016 – Mont Vallon is included for the first time plus the Montaulever drag lift. 2017 – Chapelets replaced by Petite Boss drag and La Tania’s Bouc Blanc chair replaces Tovets. 2018 – The new Roc de Tougne chair replaces the drag lift of the same name. 2019 – Legends replaces Roc de Fer and the Montaulever drag in Les Menuires has been removed. 2020 – Cime Caron now back in use. 2022 – New Pointe de la Masse and Orelle-Caron Gondolas (for example) could be used. 2023 – Using the new lifts, we ski all the resorts, all the perimeters and classic peaks – ESCAPADE 2023
ESCAPADE 2023 – A suggested route. Click on the images for the full size pics
Escapade 2023 – Successful completion by Paddy, David, Sean and Toby on Saturday 25th February
Taking advantage of the great weather and the fact that it was changeover day Paddy, David, Toby and Sean started the 2023 Escapade route in Courchevel Village at the Tovets lift at 08:58.
lift and a couple of runs later they reached the official start point in La Tania. Good progress was made until we ascended the Olympic chair to the Roc de Fer only to find that the Verdet run down to St Martin De Belleville was closed due to lack of snow. Undeterred, we descended back towards Meribel catching the Cherferie chair and then picking our way down to St Martin.
The rest of the day went smoothly (despite having a boarder in the group!) and the team was grateful for some remote support from the team captain Tony who was unable to attend having sustained a nasty ACL/MCL injury dismounting a lift a few weeks earlier.
The group reached the last lift (Aguille du Fruit) in Courchevel before descending to 1850 and completing the challenge at 16:06 just over seven hours after starting. Not content with finishing there we proceeded to do a few more runs before descending to Pub Le Ski Lodge in La Tania for some celebratory beers and some motivational words from the owner who told us that we hadn’t done badly for a group of old guys!
Their route
Tovets
– Amoureux
Foret
– Folyerres
La Tania
Dou Des Lanches
– Pic Bleu
– Blanchot
-Lapin
Golf
-Foret
-Doron
Legends
-Gelinotte
Olympic
-Roc de Fer (Verdet shut)
Cherferie (bonus)
-Cherferie (top of Jerusalem shut)
-Jerusalem (lower)
-Biolley
St Martin 1
St Martin Express
-Gros Tongue
-La Violette
-Bettex
Bettex
-La Violette
Point de la Masse
-Masse (Toby and Sean)
-Fred Colvilli
-Les Enverses
Reberty
Bruyeres 1 and 2
-Goitschel
-Plein Sud
Funitel Peclet
-Christine
-Moraine
Portette
Thorens
-Lory
Peyron
Ors Bouchet
-Coraia
-Peyron
Orelle-Caron
-Cime
-Fond
Pioneers
3Vallees (VT5)
-Lac de la Chambre
Mount Vallon
-Combe de Vallon
-Ours
Pas du Lac 1 and 2
-Creux
Chanrossa
-Roc Merlet
-Pyramides
-Lac Arondaz
-Cepes
Arondiaz
-Bel alt
Chapelets
-Roc Mugnier
Aguille de Fruit
-Altiport
-Biollay
Chenus
-Lanches
-L’Eclipse (bonus black)
-Moretta
ESCAPADE 2023 – What’s this all about…
The 3 Valleys Escapade was the lift company promotion of visiting (originally in 2006) 14 points across the Three Valleys and gaining a certificate & badge over the period of your holiday – doing it in a day was a bit tricky though!
Originally punch cards had to be stamped at each check point until electronic passes arrived and then the use of a lift was recorded – now we use Apps such as Ski Tracks or Relive to prove our route.
Note that the Escapade is no longer officially promoted by Les 3 Vallees from Winter 2017 but we still record successful tracks for anyone who is interested in being in the sought after La Tania Escapade Hall of Fame
The original Escapade took 30 lifts, around 13000m vertical with 70km length and by 2016 reached 34 lifts, 17000m vertical (twice the height of Everest) and around 100km.
This is NOT a race
ALWAYS CONTROL YOUR SPEED. You do this entirely at your own risk, act responsibly, take full ownership for your own actions and all of those with you, respect other people (& the mountain), ski & ride within your limits, always obey the skiers & snowboarders code, observe all signs, pay attention to all notices, advice & instructions from Pisteurs, only ski off piste if fully equipped & knowledgeable, it’s not a race (you won’t be insured), think about the safety of others as well as yourself but above all, think of other people, take care, don’t wreck things for others & don’t even think of blaming anyone else if it all goes wrong…..
ESCAPADE 2023 – The 12 villages and 12 perimeters/peaks used as checkpoints
Changes through the years 2006 – First year and cards with hole punches stationed at lifties huts are used. 2008 – Electronic lift analysis is now used – no use hiking out the 4th Valley now! 2010 – The piste map did not include the top of the 4th Valley and the Col lift in Val Thorens. 2011 – The X-Wing Discovery was launched but only had 10 check points and doesn’t count! 2012 – Peclet included and Biollay / Vizelle used for Saulire access. 2015 – Foret used instead of La Tania gondola. 2016 – Mont Vallon is included for the first time plus the Montaulever drag lift. 2017 – Chapelets replaced by Petite Boss drag and La Tania’s Bouc Blanc chair replaces Tovets. 2018 – The new Roc de Tougne chair replaces the drag lift of the same name. 2019 – Legends replaces Roc de Fer and the Montaulever drag in Les Menuires has been removed. 2020 – Cime Caron now back in use. 2022 – New Pointe de la Masse and Orelle-Caron Gondolas (for example) could be used. 2023 – Using the new lifts, we ski all the resorts, all the perimeters and classic peaks – ESCAPADE 2023
ESCAPADE 2023 – A suggested route. Click on the images for the full size pics
From around 7am it just snowed, a break about 4pm and then started again. A lot of new snow high up – we certainly weren’t expecting that on first lift this morning. Saulire and Chanrossa areas didn’t open up although Col de Loze did eventually and there was a link to Méribel.
Could be an epic day tomorrow. Looking like weather will clear although the off piste avalanche risk could be full on 5/5 black flag day – no doubt they’ll be working all night to secure the ski area.
No action pics today – just fun! Some trees with snow on from the chairs today….
At 4pm the sun came out for a bit – and then the snow started again…
This was actually my third attempt over a few years. Previous navigational blunders and the drag lift had been my downfall.
I picked changeover day as the queues were very small relative to the rest of the week.
I did wonder if it was actually possible so I was very surprised to complete with so much time to spare.
There were two lift breakdowns, plus some board maintenance. Other than that I was either boarding or on a lift 100% of the time.
ESCAPADE 2023 – What’s this all about…
The 3 Valleys Escapade was the lift company promotion of visiting (originally in 2006) 14 points across the Three Valleys and gaining a certificate & badge over the period of your holiday – doing it in a day was a bit tricky though!
Originally punch cards had to be stamped at each check point until electronic passes arrived and then the use of a lift was recorded – now we use Apps such as Ski Tracks or Relive to prove our route.
Note that the Escapade is no longer officially promoted by Les 3 Vallees from Winter 2017 but we still record successful tracks for anyone who is interested in being in the sought after La Tania Escapade Hall of Fame
The original Escapade took 30 lifts, around 13000m vertical with 70km length and by 2016 reached 34 lifts, 17000m vertical (twice the height of Everest) and around 100km.
This is NOT a race
ALWAYS CONTROL YOUR SPEED. You do this entirely at your own risk, act responsibly, take full ownership for your own actions and all of those with you, respect other people (& the mountain), ski & ride within your limits, always obey the skiers & snowboarders code, observe all signs, pay attention to all notices, advice & instructions from Pisteurs, only ski off piste if fully equipped & knowledgeable, it’s not a race (you won’t be insured), think about the safety of others as well as yourself but above all, think of other people, take care, don’t wreck things for others & don’t even think of blaming anyone else if it all goes wrong…..
ESCAPADE 2023 – The 12 villages and 12 perimeters/peaks used as checkpoints
Changes through the years 2006 – First year and cards with hole punches stationed at lifties huts are used. 2008 – Electronic lift analysis is now used – no use hiking out the 4th Valley now! 2010 – The piste map did not include the top of the 4th Valley and the Col lift in Val Thorens. 2011 – The X-Wing Discovery was launched but only had 10 check points and doesn’t count! 2012 – Peclet included and Biollay / Vizelle used for Saulire access. 2015 – Foret used instead of La Tania gondola. 2016 – Mont Vallon is included for the first time plus the Montaulever drag lift. 2017 – Chapelets replaced by Petite Boss drag and La Tania’s Bouc Blanc chair replaces Tovets. 2018 – The new Roc de Tougne chair replaces the drag lift of the same name. 2019 – Legends replaces Roc de Fer and the Montaulever drag in Les Menuires has been removed. 2020 – Cime Caron now back in use. 2022 – New Pointe de la Masse and Orelle-Caron Gondolas (for example) could be used. 2023 – Using the new lifts, we ski all the resorts, all the perimeters and classic peaks – ESCAPADE 2023
ESCAPADE 2023 – A suggested route. Click on the images for the full size pics
