Orelle – The little snow sport oasis in The Three Valleys Orelle (900 m)

Those that choose to spend their ski holidays in Trois Vallées, the largest integrated network of ski runs in the world, have a truly varied choice of destination. The region offers everything from the opportunity to try the most in-fashion snow sports, to modern ski centres buzzing with activity both day and night, all the way through to small, welcoming villages that still retain their original charm. The Orelle ski resort, at an altitude of 900m, and fitting as perfectly as it does into this final category, is the ideal place to be based for a relaxing ski holiday with some real Savoy region flair. Despite being very easy to reach (just one hour from Chambéry and two from Lyon Airport), Orelle transports its guests into another world. This is in no small part due to the typical French alpine architecture that holds sway; traditional buildings, made from wood and stone, still dominate the small community.

Gateway to the “El Dorado” of skiing

Its location, directly below Val Thorens, makes Orelle a prime base for a ski holiday of distinction. A 15-minute journey on the modern cableway, named the “3 Vallées Express”, is all it takes to reach the “Refuge du Plan Bouchet” at 2350m above sea level. From there, visitors have the choice of either continuing upwards to the top of the ski runs, which at 3230m is the highest accessible point in the Trois Vallées, or crossing the 3000m “Rosaël Pass” by means of another cable car. In short, snow lovers staying in Orelle can rely on easy access to the entire 600 kilometres of ski runs in Trois Vallées.

Even within the Val Thorens/Orelle ski area itself there is a great selection of 67 different runs to choose from, encompassing all difficulty levels, and all linked by a network of 26 lifts. For those just starting out, there is also a ski school located right in the centre of the resort.

A home away from home to suit anyone

When it comes to accommodation Orelle leaves nobody disappointed, offering a wide range of excellent hotels, cosy apartments and quaint chalets. Those who are looking for alternatives to the slopes will find themselves equally well catered for, whether they opt for some off-piste skiing or some mountaineering as a way of getting out onto the snow and ice.