Best ski runs in the Portes du Soleil

Best ski runs in the Portes du Soleil

The Portes du Soleil is one of the largest ski areas in the world with over 650km of pistes.  There is great skiing for all abilities spread across 12 resorts and two countries…. here are some of our favourite runs:

The Coupe de Monde…

is classified as a black run however skis more like a red.  It starts at Haut Forts and drops over 1000m to the head of the Prodain valley.  Its arguably one of the best runs in the Portes du Soleil due to its length, altitude and great snow conditions. In the past the run was used for the Women’s world cup downhill, and the old start gate is still there so you can picture yourself skiing it with virtually no turns just like the pros.

The Swiss Wall…

is one of the most famous runs in Europe.  It sits right on the border with France and Switzerland and joins Avoriaz with Champery.  When standing at the top you will find several signs warning you how steep it is, and when you try to look over the edge you can’t see much below you because it’s so steep…  certainly not for the faint hearted.  From the top at 2217m there’s 400m of very steep moguls, as the wall is never groomed – but it’s certainly a ‘must do’ run if your ability allows.

(image: champery.co.uk)

The Donkeys…

is not actually a marked run but an easy off piste zone (equivalent to a blue) between two pistes in the middle of the Chatel ski area.  It’s best to go with an instructor or guide the first time to show you the way, but afterwards you could ski it all afternoon taking a different line each time.  The donkeys is a natural playground with little bumps, jumps and natural valleys to play in… hours of ski fun!

Chaletneuf…

is an area situated above the Super Chatel, linking into Switzerland and the Chaletneuf drag lift services two super easy free-flowing blue runs that are always a joy to ski no matter if you are just learning or are semi-pro.  Ideal for beginners venturing away from the nursery slopes for the first time, the Chaletneuf blues are a perfect way for beginners to start exploring the mountain.   There is also a perfectly situated restaurant / bar half way down.

The Stash…

is the first of its kind built in Europe.  Over one mile long the Stash is a range of natural jumps, rails, wall rides, log jibs and hidden extras built in conjunction with Burton.  Nestled amongst the trees in Les Lindarets the Stash uses the natural terrain or wooden obstacles to create a playground for snowboarders and freeriders.  There are three slopes of varying difficulty, which intertwine, and snake through the forest creating a unique slope experience.

The Belette…

is Chatel’s favorite green run, starting from Plaine Dranse the Bellette is 3.5km long and winds it way through the trees all the way to Pre La Joux.  What’s great about this run is it gives beginners the opportunity to get up the mountain and away from the nursery slopes and drag lifts at the bottom.

Torgon Freeride…

is a great area for an intermediate skier looking to explore off piste without going too far.  The Torgon Freeride is a controlled but un-pisted area under the Tronchey chairlift, so is a relatively safe and accessible area for holiday skiers to try something a bit steeper and more challenging.  But what’s best is that Torgon is a quiet resort so fresh snow stays untracked a little bit longer.

The Mossette…

is an epic blue / red run that starts at the top of the Mossette chairlift and follows the ridge line between France and Switzerland with amazing views of the Dent du Midi.  It then drops down into France and Les Lindarettes; from here it’s a great open free-flowing run with some fast schuss sections, and some fun rollercoasters through the trees at the bottom.  Its always great fun and puts a smile on your face.

So what’s the best run in the Portes du Soleil; to be honest we don’t know!  Here we have highlighted 8 but there are 100s to choose from and it depends on your personal preference of what you like to ski, snow conditions, weather and who you’re with.  What is clear is the Portes du Soleil has something for everyone!

To find out more information about Chatel and our luxury ski holidays please take a look around our website.