Valloire is a perfect holiday location for winter sports fans

Welcome to the hidden gem family skiing resort that won’t break the bank.

Residents of Valloire are hoping French skier Jean-Baptiste Grange returns from Sochi with Olympic gold to add to the trophy cabinet in his father’s ski shop in the centre of the village.

This sense of community is abundant throughout the area, making it an ideal destination for families or friends seeking a friendly, traditional ski destination.

The resorts of Valloire and neighbouring Valmeiner sit in the ski area of Galibier Thabor in the French Alps.

Never heard of the area? Well, don’t be fooled into overlooking this place. Nestled just over the way from the renowned Three Valleys, Valloire has managed to retain its authentic Savoyard roots and the ski facts speak for themselves.

There are more than 150km of fine slopes spanning five mountain sides, 70% of which sit above 2,000m accessed by 33 ski lifts. From meandering tree-lined green and blue runs to off piste adventures for the thrill-seekers, there’s something to suit every ability, all for a reasonably priced ski pass at roughly €30 a day.

Two ski schools offer adults and children the opportunity to hone their skills or, to keep the really young entertained and give you peace of mind whilst on the slopes, there is a kindergarten at the foot of one of the two main cable car stations in Valloire.

All of that activity on the slopes will no doubt leave you in need of some mid-day sustenance, or a Genepi (the local liquor) or two.

Make a point of popping into Le Chalet de Montissot, one of the eight restaurants in the ski area, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by a woodburning fire and the friendly owner. Both food and drink are reasonably priced, whether you fancy a classic croque monsieur or warming bowl of goulash, there is ample choice on the menu.

If you prefer to bring your own, there are a few traditional salle-hors-sac (picnic rooms) dotted about the area too. Back in the village there are plenty of dining options and you really must experience some authentic Savoyard eats.

La Grange de Thelcide has a beautiful stable-like cosy interior, right down to the hide-covered menus. It offers a variety of Savoyard dishes, including a generously sized raclette for two which is highly recommended, accompanied by a local Roussette wine. Fondues meat or cheese were another popular choice, with the kitchen serving up this sociable dining option to friends and families who delighted in the delicious fares for what seemed like hours!

This is one place you definitely won’t leave feeling disappointed, or hungry!

The cheese and wine isn’t only reserved for dinner. The market every Friday offers residents and tourists the chance to stock up on local produce, from vin chaud to meats and cheese or nougat, there’s a treat to be found for everyone.

If you’re lucky enough to visit in January, another excuse to wander round the village is the annual International Snow Sculpture Contest, which sees artists from around the globe create some truly incredible masterpieces from gigantic blocks of ice.

And for those keen to take in some snow art on the slopes, take a trip inside the ice cave at the top of the main cable car from Valloire (€5 for an adult, under-5’s free).

Each year they rebuild the cave with a different theme and the snow-chiselled lions, elephants, clowns and acrobats in this year’s circus grotto were a spectacular discovery. There’s also plenty to keep the family entertained if you fancy kicking off your skis for an afternoon.

A husky ride or jaunt on horse and carriage offer the chance to explore the mountains using a little less energy. In addition, bowling, ice skating and the cinema are all in easy walking distance from the village centre. But if it’s relaxation and a little quiet time you’re after, pay a visit to Spa des Sens.

A little sanctuary of peace and calm with its warm fur-draped seating and open fire, my Californian massage was expertly delivered and a welcome tonic to my aching limbs. After a long day there’s no greater feeling than a hot shower to warm up again.

My three-star hotel, the Grand Htel de Valloire, just 30 metres from the foot of the slopes, offers a perfect mix of modern power showers and traditional furnishings, including the area’s trademark wooden heart-shaped designs.

Prices start from just €90 a day for half-board, and the gastronomique 5-course dinner included is well worth it.

With nine other hotels (one three-star and eight two-star) chalets and a wealth of self catered apartments, Valloire has simple, clean accommodation to cater for every budget all within a few minutes walk of the slopes.

If ski-in ski-out is more your thing, the purpose-built resort of Valmeiner was created with convenience in mind and is worth a look. So, if you’re thinking of squeezing in a ski holiday before the season is out, make sure Valloire tops your list.

A family resort with tons of traditional village charm, this option won’t bust your budget but will leave you thinking you’ve discovered a hidden gem.

Getting there both BA and EasyJet provide direct flights to Geneva, Lyon, Grenoble and Chambry airports. Transfer day is typically Saturday, with the easiest option then being to take a shuttle buses direct to Valloire. Book online at altibus.com. Rental cars are available from all airports, with a drive time ranging from two hours from Geneva or one hour 20 minutes from Chambry. Direct trains operate from Paris to Saint Michel de Maurienne then coach to Valloire and Valmeinier.