Peisey-Vallandry Ski Resort Guide
Although being well-known in the French skiing community, Pesiey-Vallandry is often overlooked by international visitors. That’s a shame though because this collection of five pretty villages at the heart of the Paradiski area provides a charming base to explore further afield from.
Peisey-Vallandry has historically been a quiet resort – and originally its connection to winter sports was predominantly through the Nordic sports of cross-country skiing and winter hiking. However, when the Vanoise Express double decker cable car was launched in 2003 to connect the resorts of Les Arcs and La Plagne they used Peisey-Vallandry as the site of the lift station. The quiet villages suddenly became integral in the centre of the newly created Paradiski area – and their popularity subsequently rose.
In the years that followed, international companies began to develop the areas surrounding the lift station. Luckily the hotels and apartments have been built to respect the local area. Sitting on the edge of the Vanoise national park – it was important that any major development was sympathetic to the natural surroundings of Peisey-Vallandry. Unlike other French resorts which became too popular too soon, the buildings of the last decade manage to compliment what the villages represented beforehand.
Peisey-Vallandry is known as the peaceful heart of the Paradiski area, and as you would expect there is no raucous nightlife to speak of. There are some nice restaurants and more laidback bars scattered around the area though. The villages are well-suited to families and the high number of catered chalets here enhances the welcoming community feel. The local ski slopes are best suited for beginners and intermediates looking to build confidence, but the wider area pass will keep more experienced skiers & snowboarders occupied for much more than a week.
If you are part of a mixed age or mixed ability group that is looking for a peaceful alpine village setting for your next holiday – with quick & easy access to the huge Paradiski area and surrounding resorts – then Peisey-Vallandry is a hidden gem well worth considering.
