Val d'Isere, France

In France's Rhone Alp region, Val d'Isere (pronounce it: val de saire/sare/ser) makes up half of Espace Killy which is widely thought of as one of the most brilliant and beautiful ski areas in the world. In keeping with the attractiveness of its surroundings, the resort itself is a compilation of alpine hamlets made up of cosy wood and stone chalets. With the original village dating back to the 13th century and eye-catching church steeple at its centre, the whole place is truly oozing alpine charm. And while dreamily trad in appearance, Val's numerous bars, clubs and restaurants form a buzzing après ski scene and you’ll find all modern conveniences at your fingertips.

Its good looks and great après are certainly deciding factors for choosing ski holidays in Val d'Isere, but what really seals the deal is the world-class skiing and snowboarding terrain. At an altitude of 1850m, the resort is well placed for good snowfall throughout the season – usually opening before, and closing later than most other resorts. Some say the snow-sure slopes the best in the world for intermediate and advanced levels, and they’ve been home to some of the very best names in snow sport – most notably Olympic legend Jean-Claude Killy who the area’s named after.

This quality, powdery terrain is accessible by a fabulously fast and efficient lift system and, with an Espace Killy lift pass, you're granted access to Tignes (which forms the other half of Espace Killy). In total you've got 300km of slopes to roam, including 2 glaciers, 2 snowparks, slow-paced beginner areas and oceans of off-piste.

With so much to do on and off the slopes, Val d'Isere works well for couples, groups and families alike. It has been awarded the 'Family Plus Label', and it's not hard to see why. As well as children's ski schools, there's a great kids area in the leisure complex, as well as various childcare options, the new Val Kids mini ski area (where tots can try their hands at driving a cable car!) and a children's sledging slope.

In Val d'Isere you'll be skiing in the tracks of some of the world's greatest skiers. Olympic medallists Marielle and Christine Goitschel learned to ski there, not to mention triple gold winner Jean-Claude Killy, after whom the wider ski area is named.

As an indication of its premier status, the resort has hosted championships including the 1992 Olympics the World Alpine Ski Championships in 2009, along with the World Cup every December.

If some of the best skiers in history have learned here, beginners can too. The resort has 2 nursery slopes, one in the centre and another at La Daille. Beginners can practice on the 2 'Slow Zone' areas on Solaise and Bellevarde called Madeline and Verte. The Col de l'Iseran runs are also wide, gentle and relatively quiet areas to build confidence. Learning to ski in Val d'Isere is also very good value, thanks to the free lifts that serve the beginner runs.

For intermediate and advanced skiers, Val d'Isere is debatably one of the best areas in the world. Two must-ski runs are the "OK" piste (which features in the annual World Cup) and the mogulled "Face" piste on Bellevarde (of Olympic and World Championship fame). Off-piste opportunities are abundant, as are challenging mogul runs.

Val d'Isere loves snowboarders, and the relationship is firmly mutual. All pistes are open to boarders and there are oodles of good freeriding terrain and deep powder runs to enjoy. It's especially good for intermediate and advanced boarders, and because of the small number of button lifts, access to slopes is a never a drag!

Val d'Isere has its own snow park, the Oakley Valpark, at an altitude of 2,500m. It has loads of kickers, rails, jumps, and obstacles with an airbag and quarter pipe, divided into separate zones for different abilities (including a fun zone). The snow park has its own sound system and a chill zone with a BBQ. For younger enthusiasts, the Acticross is a family orientated area with gentle bumps, jumps, curves, super tunnel and a fun slalom.

Famed for its après ski, you're unlikely to have a dull evening in Val. The resort has 4 nightclubs including the legendary Dicks T Bar (open from 4pm - 5am). Living up to its name, you'll experience ‘sweet madness' at Le Folie Douce, which boasts some of the best après ski in Europe. “Bananas” is another favourite, well known for its fantastic cocktails and convenient slope-side location.

In Val d'Isere's 92 restaurants, you'll find dishes to suit all tastes from traditional Savoyarde indulgence to Margarita pizzas in one of the many family friendly restaurants or takeaways. This includes Michelin starred Atelier d'Edmond which serves a fusion of gourmet cuisine and local delicacies. Round the back of the Billabong/Quicksilver shop is a great American diner-style cafe where friends and families can relax in the laid back atmosphere and enjoy the tasty food.

Off-slope facilities are superb and varied, making this a great destination for non-skiers. Outside, the village has a natural ice rink where you can skate amid beautiful surroundings and there are some great walking routes and snowshoeing, ice-climbing, ice-driving, husky rides and even paragliding. Every Thursday evening wander into the town centre to enjoy spectacular illuminations, live music and street entertainment, before heading to one of many après ski bars.

The huge Centre Aquasportif has something for all ages, however you like to spend your spare time. Swap slope-side for the complex's “Beach-Side” area where there's a swimming pool and separate leisure pool. Little ones can enjoy the paddling area while you relax with the currents and massage jets. Savour some peace, quiet and pampering in the Wellness Zone's sauna and stream room, where you can also have a hydro-massage or some spa treatments. There's a state of the art gym, and a range of sports halls where you can play a game of squash, volleyball, football, basketball, badminton or table tennis.