Val d’Isere Off-Piste by Expert Guide Christophe Kern

Local High Mountain Guide & off-piste expert Christophe Kern reveals the inside-scoop on his favorite ski resort, Val d’Isere. From his ‘must try’ off-piste ski spots to the best on mountain restaurants.

With over 25 years as one of the best high mountain guides in Europe Christophe Kern certainly knows his stuff! Christophe is partnered with one of Val d’Iseres finest ski & snowboard schools ‘Progression’ and is available throughout the season to build clients confidence and guide them to the best off-piste routes in the vast Espace Killy.

“For me skiing is an activity of elegance, that integrates the values ​​of pleasure and safety”. Christophe says.

His aim is to ensure every day is a success and build self-confidence, with routes adapted to an individual’s skill, abilities and needs. What’s more it’s all set at your own pace, so you can discover the finest off-piste at your own rhythm, whilst learning how to read the terrain and snow.

CHRISTOPHE’S FAVOURITE OFF-PISTE SKI SPOTS IN VAL D’ISERE :

The Espace Killy is a vast and varied ski area with plenty to discover and miles of beautiful quiet off-piste skiing. Christophe likes to start the discovery of the domain by the quiet slopes of the glacier of Pisaillas near the Fornet end of the Val d’Isere Valley and the Pays Desert. After that he can share the little secrets of the Fonds des Fours near the col of Cugnai at the top of the Solaise ski area.

If everybody is fit enough, the challenge is to ski long powder runs around the Signal and the col Pers in the Fornet area, according to Christophe these runs are among the most beautiful descents in the Alps.

The Best Lunch Stops:

“In few words, good time and good food, is what is the most important” says Christophe.

He has recommended several of his favorite places to stop for a hearty lunch. Each with a different location, stunning views, wonderful friendly service, ‘a la carte’ menus and a selection of delicious wine.

Atelier d’Edmond – in the Fornet.   Ranked number 1 restaurant in all of Val d’Isere on trip advisor, Atelier d’Edmond offers a delicious a la carte menu and rustic setting with friendly service.

The Edelweiss – near the Fornet.  From their tartiflette to seafood pasta this cosy chalet offers the perfect warming lunch 

La Peau de Vache – on the Face of Bellevarde.  A gorgeous piste side restaurant offering huge burgers, steak and more.

Panoramic – Tignes , La Grande Motte.   Views of Mont Blanc, lots of options for lunch, from their a la carte restaurant or they have a self service option as well.

What’s on offer:

Val d’Isere off-piste is a must try experience and Christophe can be your exclusive guide from 1 to 5 days. What’s more to keep the peace of the mountains he does not like to offer helicopter drops, so the ‘free rando’ or any hiking up the mountain is done on foot.

Powder hungry clients can choose from a range of fantastic options including:

First powder tracks – For beginners wanting to discover the mountain this winter

Ski Adventure Family (from 12 years) – Conviviality and good times shared

Off-piste / Free Ride – In search of the best snow in the resort

Freerando – Enjoy some short climbs on skins to find the best descents

Ski Touring – To go beyond the domain and enjoy the wilderness to be found there

Haute Route Expéditions – Chamonix-Zermatt, Monte Rosa, Gran Paradiso, Écrins National Park