7 events, to compete, spectate and enjoy this season in Val d'Isere
If you're still wondering which resort to pick for your ski trip this year, our round-up of the season's biggest ski events in Val d'Isere might provide that little extra something, tipping the scales in favour of the mighty Val. And if nothing else - it's a little nudge to get involved in the action for a change. Why not try something a bit different to get the adrenalin going?
Our top picks include:
1. Frost Gun - 12th -14th & 27th - 28th February
An incredible freestyle competition on a spectacular jump, coupled with some of the biggest DJs from around Europe. The world's Top 25 freestyle riders will be competing to perform their best moves in front of an audience at the foot of La Bellevarde in the heart of Val d'Isere. Ranking and prize money is at stake as they face an enormous jump with one kicker and two reception zones with a void in between! The music festival that accompanies this awesome event will include a range of big names from around Europe, pushing out sounds while the world freestylers perform, for us all to soak up and enjoy.
2. Flying kilometre speed contest - 20th February & 13th March
Fly like an eagle........just how fast can you go? If you are 3 star level and above then here's your chance to see just how fast you can go down a specially created slope at the foot of Bellevarde. Helmets are a must as you hurtle down this slope trying to beat your own or a friend's time. It's a mere €2 per entry at the Club des Sports (Fletchette/3 star level required). Not only can you feel the achievement of your own personal best but you may also be in for a prize. This is a must for all you speedsters out there, and a joy for the rest of your group to watch!
3. Snow Show - 24th February
A brand new ski show will be hosted on the Savonnette nursery slope and is set to light up the sky accompanied by music hosted by a DJ to influence the ambience on a crisp snowy evening. Val d'Isère's ski instructors will lead a beautiful torch lit descent onto the Savonnette, followed by some fantastic demonstrations of Freestyle by the Val Ski instructors. The grand finale of the evening is a spectacular firework display. A magical night with great music, entertainment and a fun atmosphere.
4. Carnival Time - 6th March
Forget Rio, Val d'Isere is carnival town on March 6th! The parade will start from the church, through Val Village and down the main street ending in style at the Ball in the Olympique Avenue Square. Such simple family fun, traditional entertainment could be just what the children need after a great day on the slopes. Activities include face painting and ice sculpting.
5. Floodlit Dynastar Trophy - Dual slalom - 14th March
You ski every year en famille, but have you ever considered ski racing en famille? The Dynastar trophy event offers competitive slalom racing for all the family, open to all holidaymakers and free to enter at the tourist office. To compete for the trophy, you need to enter a knock out competition, with three categories: men, women and children (born after 2003). Spaces are limited and the race starts at 5.30pm on the Savonnette slope. What are you waiting for?
6. Altigliss Gem Challenge - 22nd - 29th March
The Altigliss Gem Challenge is Europe's biggest student ski and snowboard competition - a week long spectacular skiing event accompanied with music. The competition starts with a bang with live DJ on the slopes and firework display. The nightlife is sure to be on fire all week and watch out for the fancy dress competitors! If you fancy getting amongst it, visitors can compete in the ‘ride her first competition' through ‘wild card' entry. Rather you than me!
7. Pro Montagne Race - 24th April
Lastly there's the Pro Montagne race, a fantastic opportunity for youngsters between 7 and 20 who are keen to compete in alpine skiing. Organised by the local shopkeepers and the Val d'Isere tourist board, this event is exclusively for holiday makers, which must surely increase chances of success - one to keep competitively spirited children entertained, for sure!
Is this the year you discover competitive ski racing?