Things to see in France

30 Aug, 2019 01:14 PM

by liam

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The Three Valleys run from Courchevel to Orelle in the French Alps, and the eight linked ski resorts collectively create the biggest ski area in the world. With some 600 km of runs, you can ski or snowboard all week and not cover the same terrain twice.

But there’s far more to the Three Valleys than winter sports. The apres ski is legendary, and in the summer months there’s a lively programme of cultural events, not to mention uncountable routes for hiking and mountain biking. The Alps create a stunning panorama at any time of the year, and it’s well worth coming more than once to see them in different seasons.

If you‘re planning a trip, here’s our pick of the Top 10 things to see and do:

1. Art at the Summit, Courchevel

Unforgettable artworks aren’t confined by gallery walls. For the past decade, Art at the Summit has taken place every year in Courchevel, bringing extraordinary works of sculpture to the villages and slopes. Throughout the season, you might find yourself standing in front of Dali’s surreal melting clock face outside the tourism office, or step off a chair lift and see contemporary Parisian sculptor Richard Orlinski’s bright red King Kong beating his chest.

For most skiers in the resort, sightings of the artworks are a surprise. More serious art lovers, however, can follow an art tour across the mountainside, ensuring they take each unique masterpiece in.

2. The Tyrolienne, Val Thorens

If skiing a black run doesn’t give you a big enough adrenalin kick, you need to ride The Tyrolienne. This 1,300 m long zip line stretches from Val Thorens to Orelle, reaching speeds of up to 105 km per hour.

It is exhilarating without a doubt, but if you can keep your eyes open long enough to soak up the views, the panorama really is the highlight of the experience. This is the closest you’ll ever get to flying like a bird; the landscape 250 m below you really is breathtaking.

3. Fahrenheit 7, Courchevel Moriond

Drinking beer in the mountains is a must, especially when you’re looking out on snow covered peaks. Fahrenheit 7 has an extensive terrace in Courchevel 1650, where you can lounge on a deck chair in the sunshine throughout the afternoon.

The Aperol Spritz here goes down particularly well, and they also have a good list of wines.