Choosing the right ski passes is the key to a great week in Val Thorens. Day pass or week pass, local area or the whole 3 Valleys, insurance, buying online: there are plenty of options and the price differences are real. Here is our practical guide, drawn from almost 30 years of seasons in the resort, to help you pay the right price and ski stress-free.
The Different Ski Passes in Val Thorens
In Val Thorens there are two main families of ski passes: those covering the Val Thorens area and those opening up the whole 3 Valleys, the largest ski area in the world with more than 600 km of runs.
The Val Thorens Pass
It gives access to the lifts of Val Thorens and its neighbouring sector. It is an excellent choice for beginners, families with young children and skiers who prefer to stay in an area that is already huge, with runs for every level.
The 3 Valleys Pass
It lets you ski over to Les Menuires, Méribel and Courchevel. For confident skiers who love clocking up the kilometres and changing scenery every day, it is the ideal pass. The price difference with the local pass quickly pays off as soon as you leave the valley.
Duration: Day, a Few Days or a Full Stay
A day pass suits you if you only ski one or two days. For a week’s holiday, a 6 or 7-day pass is much cheaper per day. A season pass is for skiers who come back several times in the winter.
5 Tips to Pay Less for Your Ski Passes
- Buy online in advance. Online prices are often better than at the ticket office, and you avoid the queue on the first morning.
- Check family and child rates. Young children and seniors usually get reduced rates, or even ski free depending on age.
- Match the area to your level. There is no need to pay for the 3 Valleys if you are a beginner: the Val Thorens pass is more than enough to progress.
- Consider day extensions. With a local pass, a one-day 3 Valleys extension often lets you discover the neighbouring valleys without paying for the full pass.
- Keep your card. Passes are loaded onto a rechargeable hands-free card: keep it for your next stay.
Should You Add Insurance to Your Ski Passes?
When you buy your ski passes, you will be offered insurance such as Carré Neige. For a few euros a day, it covers in particular mountain rescue costs, which can be high if you need to be evacuated from the slopes, and refunds unused pass days after an accident. Check first what your bank card or travel insurance already covers.
Where to Buy Ski Passes in Val Thorens
You can buy them on the official resort website, valthorens.com, or on the 3 Valleys website. In the resort, ticket offices are in the heart of the village, including close to the Silveralp residence: our guests only have a few steps to collect their passes.
Ski Passes for Children and Beginners
Families should compare the options. The youngest often ski free or at a reduced price, and some lifts in the beginner areas are cheaper to use. For a child starting with ski school lessons, a pass limited to the beginner sector may be enough for the first days, before moving on to the full Val Thorens pass. If your children take group lessons, ask the ski school which pass they need: instructors use specific lifts depending on the group level.
Ski Passes and Equipment Hire: the Perfect Combo
Once you have your ski passes, there is the equipment. Our partner Goitschel Ski Set, across the street from the Silveralp residence, gives our guests a discount. Collect your skis and boots on arrival day and you are on the slopes the next morning.
Your Questions About Ski Passes
Can I buy ski passes on the day?
Yes, at the resort ticket offices or online. During school holidays, buying in advance avoids the Sunday morning queue.
What if I lose my pass?
Report it quickly at the ticket office with your proof of purchase: the pass can usually be cancelled and reissued.
Is the pass refunded in bad weather?
Generally not, except if the whole area closes, depending on the terms of sale. That is one of the benefits of insurance designed for ski passes.
Tips for Your First Day
On the first morning, check the weather on our Val Thorens webcam, pick up a piste map and agree on a meeting point in case you get separated. If you are just starting, read our tips for a beginner skier. And for a holiday at the foot of the slopes, discover our apartments Silveralp 329 and Silveralp 330, from €204 per night.
In Short
For a week in Val Thorens, a multi-day pass bought online is almost always the best option. Choose the area to suit your level, add insurance if needed and enjoy every run. Well chosen, your ski passes open the door to the finest playground in the Alps.