Les Orres Ski Holidays

Set in the middle of a forest with spectacular views over the Embrun Valley, Les Orres is split into two different villages which are identified by their altitudes, Less Orres 1650 and Les Orres 1800. The presence of two villages within one resort gives a huge choice in terms of atmosphere, accommodation and facilities, and free transport links between the two lets you explore the shops, restaurants and activities as much or as little as you like.

1800 is a new purpose built village, established in 2008 and has a number of really modern facilities including newly built apartments, outdoor swimming pools and childcare as well as doorstep skiing. 1650 is the older and indeed prettier of the two and offers a larger variety of restaurants, bars and shops plus a popular ice-rink. They’re a 20 minute walk apart and a free bus circulates between the two until 7pm.

Across the two villages, there are 18 restaurants and 14 bars, with the majority being in the slightly livelier 1650. You’ll still find some restaurants and bars in 1800, besides a well-stocked supermarket, so no matter which resort you choose, you definitely won’t go hungry!

The French tourist board have given the resort special recognition for its outstanding facilities for children by awarding it the Famille Plus label.

The Les Orres ski pass gives you access to 100km of runs, allowing those of all abilities to do some great skiing or boarding. Both villages have fantastic ski links, with a variety of runs going right into the resort. As well as skiing and boarding, there are a number of other snow activities on offer. Children will love the snake tobogganing and the whole family will enjoy the alpine horse rides while thrill seekers should definitely consider a paragliding trip.

The skiing is best for beginners and intermediates, as it offers a huge variety of green, blue and red runs. Children are well provided for by the friendly and super experienced team at Club Piou-Piou in 1650 and La Farandole in 1800. Beginners have a number of gentle greens - the Fountaine on the Bois Mean side runs right through both villages and connects with the green Eidelweiss. Once you’ve conquered these, take the Champs Lacas lift up for some high altitude greens and blues, like the Silene (the views are stunning on a clear day).

Intermediates will really enjoy the reds stretching high above both villages. For serious altitude, head up to the Portette Peak at 2658m and take the Portette right back down to 1650. Alternatively, go towards L’Aupillion area to ski the Marmotte to 1800. For a really long scenic red, the Grande Caban is easily the longest run around.

Experts will find a handful of blacks to satisfy adrenaline cravings. Head towards the Boussolenc peak and start out on the Ecureuil black that connects with a blue to ensure you don’t wear yourself out too quickly. Once you’ve primed your ski legs, take the TSDC Fontaines lift, start out on the Soldanelle red and move on to the suspiciously named Horrible run, for a real test of your nerve.

With high altitudes and varied terrain, there’s a lot of off-piste to be explored. There are restricted areas on the map, so make the most of the powder in a safe way by hiring a local guide to show you all the best bits.

The area also has 40km of cross country ski trails and the Snowpark des Orres, which has a variety of obstacles, including a boarder cross and regular slopestyle events.

Whilst Les Orres is great for ‘things to do’ where events and activities are concerned, the après scene is pretty quiet. That said, as is the case for most things in life, if you want a party, you can definitely find it.

1800 is the quieter village of the two, but if you want a good meal, La Bouscatiere specialises in typical Savoyard dishes like tartiflette and raclette - their cheese fondue is a great choice. If cheese isn’t your thing, they also offer up a number of French delicacies, including foie gras and homemade bread. The Winter Bar has an extensive wine list and spirit bar, as well as tasty evening tapas.

A short bus ride away before 7pm and a taxi ride after that, 1650 certainly has a bustling après-ski scene. For a relaxed drink or two, A Grande Cabane is the perfect choice - kick back and relax with a glass of wine, cold beer or cocktail from their extensive bar menu. Anyone wanting to party until the early hours has Le Spot in the centre of 1650. With a late night DJ and a great choice of drinks, from shooters to soft drinks, you can party until your ski legs can no longer hold you up.

For a more sophisticated après, don’t miss the Salon de Thé overlooking the ice rink for some exceptional tea, coffee, hot chocolate and first class French patisserie.

For a really yummy evening meal, the Cote Terroir is a cosy and welcoming French restaurant with a wealth of homemade French dishes. They also have a shop on the side, where you can buy delicious homemade cheeses, breads and charcuterie.

For some top quality relaxation, head to L’Instant Etoile in 1650 to make full use of the spa facilities, including a steam room, sauna and massage treatments.