Built for the 1992 Winter Olympics, La Tania is a small, friendly ski resort tucked between Courchevel and Méribel in the heart of the Three Valleys. Surrounded by forest and known for its tree-lined pistes, pedestrian centre and relaxed atmosphere, it offers a quieter and often more affordable base from which to explore the world’s largest linked ski area, with 600 km of skiing on your doorstep.
The La Tania gondola provides quick access towards both Courchevel and Méribel, while La Tania itself has some lovely green and blue runs through the trees back to the village, making it particularly good for beginners and families. There’s a dedicated children’s area and a choice of ski schools, while more experienced skiers can quickly head further into the Three Valleys or explore some excellent off-piste terrain around La Tania – including the locally infamous route known as the ‘Plumber’s Crack’!
Have you heard of the Three Valley Challenge, or Escapade? The challenge to ski the whole of the Three Valleys in a day traditionally starts and finishes in La Tania and was once a rite of passage for many keen skiers. Lift changes over the years mean the routes have evolved, but the challenge has been resurrected – so if you’re feeling adventurous, why not give it a go?
Why You Will Love It: La Tania is small, friendly and brilliantly positioned for exploring the Three Valleys, with tree-lined skiing, a pedestrian centre and a relaxed atmosphere that works particularly well for families and groups. I worked my first winter season here back in 2003 and loved it!
La Tania is compact and easy to get around, with a pedestrian centre and everything within walking distance. The lower village is home to the shops, restaurants and bars, while attractive wooded chalet areas extend further up the hillside. There’s also an escalator connecting the lower part of the resort with the higher chalet areas, making getting around that little bit easier.
Away from skiing, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the mountains, including snowshoeing, ice skating and sledging, together with around 60 km of groomed winter walking trails through the surrounding forests. Non-skiers can also buy a pedestrian lift pass and take the gondola up for lunch at Le Bouc Blanc before enjoying the walk back down. In the village you’ll find a bakery, supermarket, newsagent, sports shops, tourist office, medical centre, ski schools and a crèche.
For a small resort, La Tania has a surprisingly lively social scene. The Ski Lodge is well known for its live music, après-ski and sunny terrace, while the village has a good choice of restaurants ranging from Savoyard favourites and pizza to more refined dining. Events take place throughout the winter too, giving this little resort plenty of atmosphere once the skiing finishes for the day.
