Industry News
With a single-day lift ticket for resorts in North America surpassing the $300 mark for the first time and SnowBrains Editor-in-Chief Martin living it up in the Italian Alps this season, we thought we’d investigate an affordable option for US families to sprinkle a little European flavor on their annual vacation.
Knowing our readers like to ski hard, party harder, and rest and recover in luxury, we chose the all-inclusive Club Med in Tignes as our cochon d’Inde (that’s guinea pig in French, don’t you know) and were not disappointed.
Club Med Tignes, in Val Claret, one of the Alps’ most popular ski destinations, has been a fixture since 1958. Following an extensive renovation in December 2022, the resort now boasts 430 rooms, including 25 Exclusive Collection Suites, two restaurants (Val Claret and Le Solstice), six bars, and the largest indoor heated pool in Club Med’s Alpine portfolio. The resort offers various activities, including skiing, snowboarding, yoga, fitness classes, and spa facilities, with over 186 miles (300 kilometers) of ski slopes and direct ski-in/ski-out access. Offering France’s longest ski season from October to early May, it’s a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. And get this: an all-inclusive trip to Club Med Tignes for a family of four costs $8,340. A comparative trip to Aspen costs $16,948, more than twice the price. You might as well go to Tignes twice.
Other than the significant savings, here are Seven-Tignes reasons why Club Med Tignes should be your next family ski trip:
1) Euro flavour skiing
The lure of the Alps and European ski culture in a Club Med setting allows you to immerse yourself in all things Tignes. This spectacular resort has more than 186 miles (300 kilometers) of slopes at 11,500 feet (3,500 meters) above sea level.
2) Ski-in, ski-out access
Val Claret is a penthouse resort at the top of Tignes, above areas Tignes 1800 and Tignes Le Lac. Club Med guests head directly to the Tichot lift, a high-speed quad for four, to access world-class skiing and snowboarding right from the entrance of their luxury locker room.
3) A luxury locker as standard
Complimentary drink machines and boot dryers in each locker make booting up a breeze. For families with little ones, it’s easier than a walk in the park. What’s better than the whole family having cozy toes and warm hot chocolate to start the day?
4) 4* and 5* accommodation
Most of the hotel is 4*, blending chic French alpine decor with modern US amenities such as a raindrop shower, dual vanity, and a safe. The 5* suites have been designed for families to relax in the height of luxury with an exclusive lounge. Suites also offer guests more space in separate bedrooms, lounge areas, balconies, and a host of premium services, including a minibar and room service.
5) Jaw-dropping views of the Alps
From the comfort of the uber-hip and trendy lounge, sipping your après drinks has never been so glamorous. Impressive floor-to-ceiling windows capture the stunning alpine backdrop in all its glory.
6) Rentals without leaving the hotel grounds
An in-house rental service makes ordering and fitting your gear quick and painless. They’ll even drop your skis into your locker, so you’ll be ready to go first thing.
7) Group ski lessons – included for children, teens, and adults
With its ski school instructors available in the hotel, lessons here in France are of the highest quality. Whether ski or snowboard, there’s an easy chart to identify your level and get paired up with the right instructor, whether you’re beginning or upskilling. Private lessons cost extra and are not included.
8) Live entertainment and performances every night
Family-friendly resorts like Club Med know that skiing takes up only a tiny portion of the day. Once the sun sets, entertaining small children and teenagers is a different ball game. Live theatre, shows, and music occur each evening, creating a fun atmosphere for the whole family.
9) Relax and unwind while your kids play
A host of fantastic kids’ clubs are available to help keep children of all ages entertained on and off the slopes. Activities vary from creative workshops and yoga to walks, video games, and dances. Babysitting is also included for children over the age of four. For teens, littles, or adults who will never grow up, a ping-pong table is on hand to keep idle thumbs busy, and a library of books to immerse yourself in.
10) Gourmet buffet – food from around the world
This is not just a buffet. At Club Med Tignes, the choice of food astounds. From freshly cooked food stations to continental fare to full English, there’s no shortage of breakfast, lunch, or dinner. First-class fare from across the globe, not just French or US food. Make sure you take your stretchy pants or at least one set of clothes a size up.
11) Book a table for fine dining
After you’ve worked up an appetite, book a table at Le Solstice, the à la carte restaurant. Dishes include Caviar, Gravlax, and two pounds (one kilogram) of beef rib, as well as fondue, of course. Some dishes require a surcharge.
12) Crêpes, coffee, cakes, and cookies
Each afternoon, the lounge unveils a display of delicacies. The all-inclusive selection of French patisserie sweet treats and savory sandwiches, freshly made crêpes, and a barista coffee and sandwich kiosk are readily available for you to pick up.
13) Cocktails and mocktails
Like many European resorts, Tignes and Val D’Isere are renowned for their party scene. Fabulous bars Bollin and La Folie Deuce get the party started on the slopes, while all-inclusive drinks at the Club Med bar keep the party going well into the night.
14) Fitness center and wellness classes
Not everyone wants to hit the slopes daily, so a well-rounded schedule of fitness and wellness classes (including yoga and spinning) complements a fully equipped gym. This allows you to incorporate a cardio session, strength training, or mindful meditation into your ski vacation instead.
15) Sauna, steam room, outdoor hot tubs & pool
Muscles recover best when they can see their nemesis. Slopeside hot tubs sit alongside a relaxing indoor pool with loungers, sauna, and steam rooms. There’s no better way for non-skiers to spend time after a day of classes and retail therapy.
16) Self-care and pampering
No ski trip is complete without a trip to the spa to pamper your weary muscles. A full-service spa welcomes guests to enjoy full-body massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and more. A botanical garden aesthetic encourages soothing and energizing vibes to get you psyched for the next day’s skiing.
17) Be part of Club 45
Club 45 is a unique story in itself. Upon its 45th anniversary, Club Med launched a ‘one time only’ anniversary tee shirt. The Club 45 tee was instantly iconic, a proven hit with guests, staff, and visitors. You could say a legend was born. Their retail store has hundreds of colorways and variations of the classic tee. Get yours and join the party fun.
Bonus: 18) Above and beyond French hospitality
The resort staff was exceptionally friendly and consistently happy to greet and assist us. Concierge service was on hand at the front desk; forgetting a toothbrush was no problem. With minimal French in our repertoire, everyone spoke English incredibly, making communication easy.
Club Med Tignes is a game-changer for ski vacations, offering an unparalleled all-inclusive experience that combines luxury, affordability, and European charm. Its prime location in the French Alps, with ski-in/ski-out access, comprehensive amenities, and activities for all ages, presents a compelling alternative to North American resorts. The resort’s recent renovation provides guests luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining options, and world-class facilities. From stunning alpine views to a vibrant après-ski scene, it encapsulates the essence of a perfect family ski getaway.
While it’s a bit of a trek from the States, the journey is worthwhile. This European ski destination offers exceptional value without compromising on quality or experience. Whether you’re a ski pro or just in it for the hot chocolate and fondue, Club Med Tignes has something for everyone. The significant cost savings compared to similar trips in the United States might have you planning your next visit before unpacking from this one.
