With the long ski season in Val Thorens – from November through May – this is really the place to be. Okay, okay, we’re kind of on Val Thorens. Why? Because for a winter sports resort, it really has everything.

You also sleep Hotel Marielle: A cozy boutique hotel, ski-in ski-out, right in the center and with a view of the slopes. In the morning, you have breakfast with a view of the lift; after skiing, you dive into the sauna and steam bath and finish off in the cozy bar. Le M restaurant in the sun, ski rental right in the hotel, and everything within walking distance. Yes, this is where you want to stay.

Okay, time for lunch. Important fuel while skiing. We did this at Caron 3200 en Chalet des 2 Lacs. Very different, both really cool. The Caron 3200 building has just opened, and you get here via the Cime de Caron. It is one of the highest spots in Val Thorens, with views over more than 1000 mountain peaks. You can eat inside or outside here with a view that you could seriously pull straight from a laptop screensaver. Occasionally there is a DJ, and then the dancing begins at 3200 meters high. There is also a very fancy wine bar, where they have a large wine selection and even serve their own wine. And shhh, there is a meeting room you can rent. Just try to concentrate! Then there is Chalet des 2 Lacs. Here you can order classic mountain dishes—1, 2, 3, cheese fondue please! The warm apple tarte tatin is also highly recommended.