Tignes — France

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Photo © OT Tignes / Andy Parent

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A stone’s throw from the Italian boarder, Tignes is located in a spectacular hanging valley in the Haute Tarentaise. Often regarded as the ‘poor cousin’ to neighbouring Val d’Isère, Tignes (Teen-ya) has gradually shrugged off this label to become an innovative, modern resort which is home to many high-profile events such as the X-games.

History

In 1952 the Lac du Chevril was created in order to generate hydro-electric power, resulting in the original village of Tignes being submerged. The new Tignes was created higher up the valley, built on a beautiful plateau complete with glacial lake flanked by magestic peaks. Thanks to the “innovative” architecture of the time, Tignes is known as being rather ugly and does not fulfil most people’s fantasy of the ultimate chocolate box ski resort! Over the years, efforts have been made to improve its appearance, (and some areas of Tignes are indeed rather attractive), but there is no hiding certain apartment blocks – but at least they have great views and most offer ski-in-ski out locations.

Tignes today

Situated in the beautiful Savoie region not far from the Aosta Valley in Italy, Tignes is one of the highest and snow-sure ski resorts in Europe. You can get there by plane, train or automobile depending on your budget and time scale.

There are 5 villages that make up the ski resort of Tignes; each have their own personality and all have easy access to some great skiing which is part of the world famous Espace Killy domain.

The villages are:Tignes les Brévières (1550m); Tignes les Boisses (1800m and 1850m); Tignes le Lavachet (2100m); Tignes Le Lac (2100m) and Val Claret (2130m). Whether it be self-catering apartments, catered chalets, small or large hotels, budget or luxury…there really is something for everbody in Tignes.