Why does Val Thorens attract freeride fans from all over the world?
Published on 26/01/2026 - Written by Nadège
Freeride fans love Val Thorens because the ski resort is located at an altitude of 2,300 metres in the heart of the famous 3 Vallées ski area. This exceptional location means that the resort enjoys optimum snow cover throughout the season, as well as offering riders several breathtaking descents.
It's no coincidence that the last edition of the Freeride World Tour was held here for a few days in January 2025. So, are you ready to follow in the footsteps of all these international athletes?
It's no coincidence that the last edition of the Freeride World Tour was held here for a few days in January 2025. So, are you ready to follow in the footsteps of all these international athletes?
Val Thorens: a paradise for passionate riders
Every year, many riders come to Europe's highest resort to indulge their passion: freeriding. Sometimes until May, these sportsmen and women meet here to discover or rediscover some of the most beautiful runs in the world. And it's not just the French who enjoy it, as it's not uncommon to come across skiers from all over Europe and beyond.
The Freeride World Tour has chosen to hold its 2025 edition in Val Thorens, and will continue to do so until 2029, largely because of these factors (altitude, panoramic views, etc.). During this event, many athletes challenged themselves on the face of the Lac Noir, whose summit is situated at 2,500 metres. Could this be your next freeride challenge?
The Freeride World Tour has chosen to hold its 2025 edition in Val Thorens, and will continue to do so until 2029, largely because of these factors (altitude, panoramic views, etc.). During this event, many athletes challenged themselves on the face of the Lac Noir, whose summit is situated at 2,500 metres. Could this be your next freeride challenge?
Discover the best runs in the 3 ValléesFreeriding in Val Thorens: an adrenaline-pumping experience
As well as the Lac Noir face, there are several other freeride spots waiting to be explored in Val Thorens. Depending on your level, you can choose to tackle the Cime Caron (expert profile), at an altitude of over 3,000 metres. Up there, you can first stop for a while to enjoy the magnificent panorama before descending almost 900 metres.
Less experienced skiers can head for the much more accessible Lac du Lou. With its moderate slope, this off-piste run is better suited to those just starting out in freeride. The best thing, though, is to be accompanied by an ESF instructor for added peace of mind!
Less experienced skiers can head for the much more accessible Lac du Lou. With its moderate slope, this off-piste run is better suited to those just starting out in freeride. The best thing, though, is to be accompanied by an ESF instructor for added peace of mind!
Take freeride lessons with ESF Val Thorens!
Would you like to start freeriding or perfect your knowledge of the mountain environment to improve your safety at altitude? If so, we recommend that you book freeride off-piste lessons with ESF Val Thorens. These lessons, for groups of 1 to 8 people, will enable you to discover new routes and learn how to handle your safety equipment (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe, etc.).
Your children can also try their hand at freeriding with the ESF Val Thorens. The Team Rider course is dedicated to them, with lessons in freeride and freestyle. To take part, however, they must be at least eight years old and have an advanced level of skiing. To find out more, feel free to explore our online site!
Your children can also try their hand at freeriding with the ESF Val Thorens. The Team Rider course is dedicated to them, with lessons in freeride and freestyle. To take part, however, they must be at least eight years old and have an advanced level of skiing. To find out more, feel free to explore our online site!
Freeride for younger riders!