Val Cenis Vanoise

Val Cenis has enjoyed a loyal following among skiers since well before the addition of Termignon-la-Vanoise to the lift-pass. The link has proved to be an inspired move, broadening the appeal rather more than the piste-map alone might suggest. Much of the terrain is above 2000m, with a respectable 2800m on offer just above the 2665m Ouillon de la Tomba above Lanslevillard. The scenic highlights, though, are the near-panoramic overviews of the Lac du Mon Cenis, which you can admire from the red-graded Goulet piste served by the Mont Cenis chairlift.

As for the Termignon sector, the link is via the Turra 6-seater high-speed lift, after which you’ll find some surprisingly long cruises, not least the Traverse blue piste run down through the forest to the base of the lift. If you’re pressed for time, though, you can take the lift back - it carries skiers in both directions. Press on, though, and a 4-seater chairlift will drop you at 2300m for more options (including the very worthwhile drag-lift-served runs from just below Le Grand Coin (2796m)).

Finally, there’s limited but surprisingly good downhill skiing further up the valley at Bonneval (which is not lift-linked), plus some 80km of groomed cross-country terrain around Bessans.

Val Cenis Vanoise is centred on the cheerful, year-round working villages of Lanslebourg, Lanslevillard and Termignon.

Spread out though this sounds, in practise it all holds together well, and any lingering doubts about this being a fully-fledged ski area were removed a few seasons ago by the addition of luxury self-catering accommodation by prestige Savoyard developer MGM Constructeur (now managed by CGH). All the signs point to things moving steadily (and deservedly) upmarket. That said, the fact that it remains a working village serves to keep its feet firmly on the ground, and meal/bar prices refreshingly affordable.

Termignon sits lower at 1300m, but has a similarly unpretentious, welcoming vibe, with good access to the pistes via the 4-seater Girarde high-speed chairlift.

The presence of Europe’s longest Green piste is something of a mixed blessing, for while the area is a highly-attractive option for beginners, you might expect that it’s all going to be a bit tame here. Not so; there’s also plenty for intermediates to enjoy.

The terrain is also varied enough to satisfy both fans of steeps and those who prefer to take it easy among the shelter of natural, wooded settings. As it’s such a good place for novices, it's also a solid choice for families and mixed-ability groups, who will also appreciate realistic pricing in more traditional village location.

Finally, it’s readily accessible from Modane by those who prefer the TGV high-speed rail option.

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