22 and 23 November 2025, Val Thorens is celebrating its opening weekend, «La Grande Première», an event that has become legendary for all lovers of skiing and altitude. On the programme: skiing, equipment tests, festive entertainment, a raclette evening, mountain film screenings and even a one-man show. In short, everything you need to get back into the winter spirit and kick off the season with a smile.
The first resort to open in the Three Valleys, Val Thorens promises a weekend of pure skiing and snowboarding, punctuated by the first descents of the winter and the new-found sensations.
On site, the Place Caron test village will bring together more than 50 leading ski, snowboard, freeride and touring brands to present their new products for 2026. It's the perfect opportunity to try out the latest equipment, compare sensations and prepare for the season on the best possible basis.
Throughout the weekend, visitors will also be able to try out new activities with UCPA, enjoy a mini-snowpark, and test their knowledge in quizzes hosted by the resort's teams.
Gifts, goodies and even craft beers from Brasseurs Savoyards will be on hand to add a touch of conviviality to the day.
A festive atmosphere from Saturday morning
From 8am, Place Caron will wake up to the sound of the resident DJ's turntables. Early risers can enjoy a complimentary breakfast before putting on their skis and hitting the freshly opened slopes.
Throughout the day: tests, introductions, entertainment and mulled wine at 4pm to warm up before the lifts close.
On Saturday evening, the mood shifts to the entertainment side with a «Grande Première Séance», a screening of mountain films from 6.10pm in the Board's amphitheatre.
At 8pm, a free one-man show will round off the evening in Val Thorens church. With its mix of laughter and emotion, it's a quirky and cheerful way to welcome winter.
And for those with a sweet tooth, you won't want to miss the Raclette Party, one of the highlights of the weekend: a big convivial meal with a Savoyard flavour, where music, laughter and the scent of melted cheese mingle with the freshly fallen snow.
Sunday: skiing, fun and surprises right up to the last bend
On Sunday, the festivities continue from 9am: the tests start again, the quizzes are followed by a succession of events in the exhibitors' village.
Participants will also be able to try their luck in the Salomon testers' game, rewarding the best skiers and snowboarders in each category.
The prize-giving ceremony will take place at 3.30pm, just before the closing ceremony at 5pm. This is your chance to take home a prize and some great memories of the opening weekend.
And for an extra touch of adrenalin, visitors can take a helicopter ride from the altiport, with a 10-minute panoramic flight at a reduced rate (€85 per person).
Tailor-made packages for all enthusiasts
Val Thorens offers a number of special «Grande Première» packages for an unrestricted experience:
- Classic package from 191 euros / person, including 2 nights' accommodation, a 2-day Val Thorens-Orelle ski pass and access to all the tests.
- Learning package from 213 euros / person, plus 2 hours of ski lessons on Saturdays to get your reflexes back in shape before the high season.
New this year is the possibility of extending your stay until Monday, with one night and a 3-day package at a preferential rate.
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