Ski touring in the 3 Vallées, or the desire to push back the horizon a little further
Published on 31/03/2026 - Written by Amélie
Less popular than downhill skiing, ski touring is attracting more and more enthusiasts every year. It's a great way to get away from the crowds on the marked runs, and enjoy the natural spectacle to the full.
As the largest ski area in the world, the 3 Vallées are the ideal place to try ski touring, especially if you already have some experience of the sport.
From Courchevel to Val Thorens, via Les Menuires and Orelle, the ESF invites you to enjoy a unique experience in the heart of the Alps.
Discover the area off the beaten track with ski touring
Ski touring is a combination of walking and downhill skiing. The activity consists of ascending on skis fitted with sealskins, then descending off-piste on snow that is often immaculate.
And yes, ski touring has the advantage of taking you to more confidential spots, where few visitors have had the chance to ski!
As well as offering this privilege, ski touring allows you to ski in a more environmentally-friendly way by avoiding ski lifts. If you're comfortable on skis and want to enjoy magnificent views of the snow-capped mountains of the 3 Vallées ski area, ski touring is the activity for you.
As well as offering this privilege, ski touring allows you to ski in a more environmentally-friendly way by avoiding ski lifts. If you're comfortable on skis and want to enjoy magnificent views of the snow-capped mountains of the 3 Vallées ski area, ski touring is the activity for you.
How do you ski tour in the 3 Vallées?
To enjoy ski touring in complete safety, it is essential to be accompanied by a professional. That's why the French ski schools in the sector offer guided outings by qualified instructors who know the area inside out.
Every aspect is taken into account to ensure that you are involved in the success of your ski touring excursion, from the right reflexes to the use of safety equipment and environmental awareness.
Courchevel 1650, Courchevel 1850, La Tania, Méribel, Les Menuires, Val Thorens, Orelle: the ESFs of the 3 Vallées are at your disposal to introduce you to the discipline in the best possible conditions.
Courchevel 1650, Courchevel 1850, La Tania, Méribel, Les Menuires, Val Thorens, Orelle: the ESFs of the 3 Vallées are at your disposal to introduce you to the discipline in the best possible conditions.
In complete safety!A serene outing to the 3 Vallées with the esfSki touring: new experiences with the ESF 3 Vallées
While all the ESFs offer ski touring lessons during the day, some have set up special sessions that take place after dark.
For example, the Val Thorens ESF invites you to its Rando by night, a 2-hour itinerary for a hike in the magic of the starry sky. Equipped with a headlamp, you'll be able to observe the resort in the twilight and enjoy the breathtaking calm of the sleeping resort. Same time, same duration at Les Menuires with the Starry Night Hike which will take you as far as the Refuge du Lac du Lou.
Whether you opt for a day or night ski touring outing, we strongly recommend that you book your lessons and services in advance from your resort's ESF website. Then enjoy your lessons in an exceptional setting!
Whether you opt for a day or night ski touring outing, we strongly recommend that you book your lessons and services in advance from your resort's ESF website. Then enjoy your lessons in an exceptional setting!