It's the date that all winter sports fans have been waiting for: Saturday 22 November 2025, Tignes kicks off the winter season in the French Alps. Thanks to its Grande Motte glacier, perched at an altitude of 3,656 metres, the resort is kicking off the season ahead of everyone else, promising 163 days of non-stop skiing from 22 November 2025 to 3 May 2026.
Like every year, Tignes is looking forward to its opening weekend. The opening weekend promises to be sporty, festive and unifying, combining great skiing, a friendly atmosphere and not-to-be-missed events.
From Saturday morning, meet in Tignes Val Claret, in front of the Perce-Neige funicular, for the official opening of the ski area.
The first skiers will be able to put on their spatulas in a euphoric atmosphere: warm-ups, the first curves of the season, smiles frozen under snow masks... The pleasure of rediscovering the mountain in its purest state.
As for prices, the resort is playing the accessibility card to mark the occasion: 40 euros / day on 22 and 23 November and 50 euros / day from 24 to 28 November. A great way to celebrate first descents without breaking the bank.
The magical return of the torchlight descent
The highlight of the weekend takes place on Saturday at 5.30pm: the first torchlight descent of the season.
At the foot of the Grande Motte glacier, at an altitude of 3,456 metres, around a hundred "red jumpers" - instructors from the French Ski School and members of the Tignes Ski Club - will illuminate the mountain with their ballet of light.
A magical and symbolic show, which marks the start of winter to the applause of the public and in a festive atmosphere shared with all those involved in the resort.
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On Sunday 23 November, it's time for the Yéti Race, the fun and sporting event that every year brings together hundreds of participants ready to take on the icy challenges of the course.
And a few days later, Tignes will be hosting the prestigious Étoiles du Sport, another highlight of the winter calendar. On the slopes of La Grande Motte, winter 2025-2026 has begun. And it's already shaping up to be an unforgettable one.