subject: Just As Much Fun The Non-skiers Val Disere Experience [print this page] The comfortable bus trip from Geneva to Val d'Isere is a little under three hours, and it is the perfect time to consider just which of the numerous non-skiing activities to enjoy on your holiday. The scope and diversity of action and entertainment on offer is quite staggering. From sledding to squash, chess to cheese-making you can be actively engaged from dawn until dusk and beyond. Here are five more activities, just to get you started.
Helicopter Rides
Take some time to get high above the bustle on the slopes. Get a breathtaking birds eye view of the local ski area and Tignes and go on to gasp over Espace Killy, the Tarantaise and further afield to Mont Blanc. See what you want, when you want: you can create a bespoke itinerary and, weather permitting, the flights can be taken at a time suited to your schedule.
Guided Snowshoe Walks
After a sedentary few hours journey from Geneva to Val d'Isere a walk through the breathtaking terrain is certain to get your blood moving again. It is said that if you can walk you can snow-shoe, and a guided hike is an effective way to enjoy some light exercise whilst getting up close to the mountains flora and fauna. Hikes range from those of a couple of hours to a half or full day guided and outfitted adventure. Night-time hikes are also available for those nocturnal types wishing to experience the sights and sounds of the slopes after dark.
Spas
For those not shy of inactivity or indulgence a spa experience can be a wise investment, recharging you so you are able to enjoy even more of the activities on offer in this mountain wonderland. Massage for those aching legs aprs snowshoeing, yoga, Pilates, swimming, physiotherapy and all the luxurious extras such as beauty treatments and hairdressing are available. Many of the in-hotel spas offer child-minding facilities.
Shopping
Although tempting to do so, there is really no need to stop on the road from Geneva to Val d'Isere - the village at the top of the French Alps really has it all. Alongside the to-be-expected ski shops there is a vast selection of businesses ranging from jewellers, boutiques, children's clothing, home decor, gifts, and local produce including speciality patisseries, butchers and delicatessens.
Eating
The road from Geneva to Val d'Isere is littered with a mind-boggling array of fine, varied dining opportunities. However, you would be wise to avoid giving in to those urges and waiting until you can avail yourself of the ultimate mountain dining and entertainment experience - La Folie Douce. Dubbed the highest and coolest club in the Alps, it is claimed to have taken the aprs ski set to a new level. La Folie Douce is rated fourth out of the five top restaurants in the area by Trip Advisor. This huge, sprawling establishment of chalet inspired architecture, houses two restaurant options, fine dining and an affordable buffet of international cuisine. Catering to all ages, it is a cacophony of music, cabaret, singing and dancing, eating, drinking and laughter. Many say that the funky, friendly, life affirming, nonstop party atmosphere is one of the highlights of their stay.
And More
Also on offer for the non-skier are cinemas with films in French and English, an outdoor skating rink, ice karting, paragliding, dog sledding, ice climbing, bridge tournaments, tours to a dairy farm with cheese-making and tasting, or classes at one of Frances best patisseries - proving that this is definitely an exciting destination for the non-skier as well.
