Chasing the Deep Powder Snow in Les Menuires

If you are a keen skier looking for a winter holiday with lots of deep powder snow, then why not head to the Three Valleys in the French Alps? This is the largest ski area in the world and boasts 600 km of interconnected ski slopes serviced by 180 ski lifts. The three main valleys that make up the area are Courcheval, Meribel and Val Thorens, but there are smaller villages too that have plenty of facilities and make great alternatives to staying in the bigger, more prestigious resorts.

Pistes in the Three Valleys are all very well maintained and there is plenty of opportunity to go off piste in search of that fabulous deep powder. Snowfall in the area is generally very good and conditions remain excellent throughout the season.

Staying in Les Menuires Les Menuires is located in the Belleville Valley, making a nice change from staying in the main resort of Val Thorens; it is an excellent resort for families. The resort is ideally located for exploring the entire area of the Three Valleys and you can purchase a lift pass that allows you to do just that. Many of the chalets here have direct access to the slopes - meaning that you can ski right back to your door, or at least very close by. There is a lift from the main station that takes you to the top of Mont de la Chambre in one step, from where you can ski straight down into the Meribel Valley.

For those more adventurous skiers, Les Menuires has great access to some off piste deep powder. Snow is always good on the summit of La Masse, which is a very popular off-piste destination. The prime location of the slopes here mean that 45% of them are protected, maintaining excellent conditions through much of the season, and lots of deep powder snow to play in! If you are going to ski off-piste, however, it is always recommended that you take a guide and are equipped with the necessary safety equipment, including avalanche transceivers. There are excellent ski schools in the village, offering on and off-piste lessons and guided off-piste instruction, so it is always best to use one of these.

Off the slopes, this little village also has plenty of entertainment. There is a sports complex with a large swimming pool, fitness complex and well-being facilities. For something a little different, children will love tobogganing or a turn on the snow scooters - if they are old enough.

So, for a good combination of on and off piste skiing, Les Menuires is a paradise. Perfectly situated and offering options for all the family, it makes a great Three Valley holiday.

Danielle Hodges is the Marketing Manager for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service offering bonded holidays in resorts with deep powder snow and accommodation in catered or self-catered chalets in La Tania and other fantastic destinations. For a luxury or good-value skiing holiday and the best catered chalets call Ski Amis.