Tignes is an exhilarating ski resort known for its expansive terrain, vibrant atmosphere and stunning alpine scenery. Situated at 2,100 metres, Tignes forms part of the Espace Killy ski area, shared with Val d’Isère, offering a combined 300 km of pistes. This high-altitude resort is renowned for its reliable snow cover, diverse runs, and excellent off-piste opportunities, making it a top destination for skiers of all levels.
Tignes Ski Area
The Tignes ski area is divided into five main villages: Tignes Les Brévières, Tignes Les Boisses, Tignes Le Lavachet, Tignes Le Lac, and Tignes Val Claret. Each village offers direct access to the slopes and a unique atmosphere. The entire Espace Killy area consists of 154 runs: 19% green, 39% blue, 35% red and 7% black, ensuring a variety of terrains for all skill levels. The highest point, the Grande Motte glacier, reaches an impressive 3,456 metres, providing year-round skiing with spectacular views.
Beginner Skiing in Tignes
Tignes is well-equipped for beginners with ample gentle slopes and dedicated learning areas. The main nursery slopes are located in Tignes Le Lac and Tignes Val Claret, where beginners can practise in a safe and controlled environment. Notable beginner-friendly runs include the greens at Bollin and Rosset, which offer wide, gentle descents perfect for building confidence. As you progress, the blue runs around the Palafour lift provide a smooth transition to more challenging terrain.
Intermediate Skiing in Tignes
Intermediate skiers will find Tignes a paradise of blue and red runs, perfect for honing skills and enjoying longer descents. The area around Tignes Le Lac and Val Claret features numerous interconnected blue and red runs, allowing for extensive exploration without straying too far from the village centres. Favourite intermediate runs include the Grattalu and Double M, which offer thrilling descents with stunning views. For those looking to push their limits, the red runs down from the Aiguille Percée provide an exciting challenge with varied terrain and beautiful alpine scenery.
Advanced Skiing in Tignes
Advanced skiers will relish the challenging runs in Tignes. The black runs in the Grande Motte glacier area are particularly demanding, with steep descents and mogul fields that test even the most skilled skiers. The famous Sache run, a lengthy and challenging descent from the Aiguille Percée to Tignes Les Brévières, is a must-try for advanced skiers. Additionally, the Lavachet Wall offers steep and exhilarating mogul skiing. For those seeking the ultimate challenge, the black runs in the Vallon de la Sache offer steep, narrow corridors and spectacular views.
Off-piste Skiing in Tignes
Tignes is renowned for its off-piste skiing, offering a playground of untouched powder and challenging descents. The area around the Grande Motte glacier is particularly popular, with routes such as the Tour du Charvet and the Petite Balme providing thrilling experiences for advanced skiers. The Palet sector offers exciting off-piste routes with varied terrain and breathtaking scenery. For the best off-piste experience, it’s highly recommended to hire a local guide or instructor who can provide expert knowledge and ensure your safety in the backcountry.
Snowparks in Tignes
Tignes is a haven for freestyle enthusiasts, with several snowparks catering to all levels. The Tignes Val Claret Snowpark is the most prominent, featuring a variety of jumps, rails and boxes, as well as a dedicated beginner area. The park is meticulously maintained and offers different lines to suit various skill levels. The Gliss’Park, located in Tignes Le Lac, provides a fun and accessible area for practising freestyle tricks, complete with smaller jumps and obstacles perfect for beginners and intermediates. For a unique experience, the Bun-J Ride in Tignes Le Lac combines skiing and bungee jumping, offering an adrenaline-pumping thrill for the adventurous.
Conclusion
Tignes offers a diverse and exciting skiing experience for all levels, from beginners taking their first turns on gentle slopes to advanced skiers seeking the thrill of challenging descents and off-piste adventures. With its reliable snow cover, extensive terrain and vibrant village atmosphere, Tignes is a premier destination in the French Alps. Whether you’re looking to improve your skills, explore the vast Espace Killy area, or simply enjoy the stunning alpine scenery, Tignes has something for everyone.
