HOW TO DO A SKI HOLIDAYS IN VAL D’ISERE ON A BUDGET?

Ski holidays get a lot of flak sometimes, and many people believe they are not the cheapest in the world. Counting up your transport to the resort, accommodation for the week, ski passes, equipment hire and activities… Then once you are on holiday, you think you’ll have loads more extra costs that you’ll need to dish out for. But no, this is not always the case! Here we are to show you how you can make the most of your ski holiday without blowing your budget, and in Val d’Isère of all places. 

Below you’ll find a selection of the best addresses in Val d’Isère for a drink, to eat and to have fun, all at low prices. Read on to discover our suggestions, we know your wallet will thank you!

 

An activity to do with family or friends

You cannot come to Val d’Isère without going ice skating. Located in the heart of Val d’Isère, this chilling activity will delight young and old alike. Open every day from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and then from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Don’t forget your gloves and especially watch your bottom, lots of laughter guaranteed!

Adult entry with skate rental: €9.50

Admission – 14 years old with skate rental: €8.50

 

ice skating VD

Discover electric mountain biking on snow

Have you ever done mountain biking before? Possibly you have tried it during the summer? Why not (re)discover this wonderful activity in the winter too? You can enjoy an electric mountain bike ride in Val d’Isère thanks to Oxygène Ski & Snowboard School. Explore the fantastic Val d’Isère old town or head up higher for a proper on snow experience, there is something for everyone! An unforgettable moment to share with family or friends. Fun guaranteed !

 

electric mountain biking

Cheaper accommodation is totally possible

Often many think Val d’Isère is out of their budget when it comes to accommodation. But this simply is not true! First of all you have to be flexible with your dates and don’t choose a ski holiday during the peak holiday weeks. We like to check out deals on websites such as Airbnb. The best time to come has often been said to be during January or March. Costs are lower and the slopes are quieter too. Big bonus!

Happy hour is here!

From 5 p.m everyday you can head to the Petit Danois for Happy Hour. This is where the speakers come alive with live music and you can dance with friends around an open-air clubbing aperitif in the center of Val d’Isère. Everyday from 4 to 5 p.m and then 9 to 10 p.m, it’s Happy Hour with free popcorn! 

A restaurant by the slopes that does not cost an arm and a leg

Le Bananas has been present in Val d’Isère for more than 30 years and is well known for its mouth-watering tex mex cuisine and warm atmosphere. Located next to the “Bellevarde Express” chairlift, it is an ideal place to stop off for a break during your day of skiing or snowboarding and grab a snack.

 

Bananas restaurant

Savoyard specialties for small budgets

Delicious tartiflettes, croziflettes and Savoyard fondues for less than €30 per person await you at La Casserole restaurant in Val d’Isère. These typical and essential dishes that you must taste during your visit to the mountains are often expensive… But we promise at La Casserole your taste buds and your wallet will not be disappointed.

fondue savoyarde

Rent your equipment for less than 20€ / day

Yes, that’s right, we at Ski Hut can offer inexpensive ski and snowboard equipment rental for the whole family, without setting aside quality and a super service. We have honest and transparent prices that are easy to help you budget your holiday in Val d’Isère this winter.

Ski Hut is located inside the Portillo building on the avenue Olympique. You’ll find us on the left after the service station just at the entrance. There are two stops in front of the Portillo, making it super easy for you, no matter where you are staying in Val d’Isère!

Ski Hut Shop Val d'Isere

WHAT EQUIPMENT IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Choosing the right equipment is not always easy, especially when you are not an expert in the field. However, choosing the right equipment for your level maximizes your sliding experience, allowing you to enjoy your holiday in the mountains more. Are you unsure about which Pack of skis and boots you should choose? Here is a little guide to our complete range; skis, boots, snowboards, childrens equipment, helping you choose the best option for you…

 

The 3 Ski Hut Adult Packs

At Ski Hut, you have the choice between 3 different adult categories: Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced:

– Beginner: You have little or no experience on skis. Are you on green or easy blue runs, are you not going fast and find turning difficult? Our Beginner Pack is perfect for you and you’ll progress beautifully. The skis have an injected foam internal structure making them lightweight and easier to move and turn on the slopes. They are a great option for skiing with your children on beginner runs and following them at their pace. Please remember the best height for beginner skis is no higher than chin level. Also don’t go too short, skis that are too short do not have the same center of gravity and you can become unbalanced more easily. Beginner skis are generally thinner to allow for an easier change from edge to edge when turning.

skihut-beginner

– Intermediate: Skiing is a wonderful hobby for you and you probably do one week or two weeks a year with friends or family. You know how to link your turns together and move at a comfortable medium speed on the slopes. You are generally happy on all pistes. Your goal? To build on your technique and gain more confidence when going quicker. If you recognise yourself in this description, choose our Intermediate Pack, they will help you push yourself on the slopes without losing control. Intermediate skis are a little heavier and bulkier than beginner skis. They are ideal for skiing on all slopes, but also great for playing in the fresh powder on the edge of the slopes too, and you can even use them in the snowpark for basic jumps. The ideal size for Intermediate skis is your height. They’ll allow you to advance in performance and stability.

skihut-intermediate

– Advanced: You are at one with the snow and parallel turning to perfection! Every patch of snow calls out to you, both on and off-piste, and you can’t resist the temptation. Our Advanced level of skis is the perfect solution for you. These skis will become your allies for the week, aiding you in all circumstances. Much larger than those in our other categories, these skis cover a larger volume per cm2, helping you to not sink and ride that fresh powder like a God. If you’re interested in freestyle, make sure you choose skis that are not too big to help with your twists and rotations. Twin Tips are used for this specific type of discipline as they make landing or skiing backwards much easier. For you off-piste enthusiasts, the skis should be taller than you, helping to give you more lift on soft snow.

 

Good news: We have all these types of skis in our Ski Hut stores in La Plagne and Val d’Isère.

skihut-advanced

Equipment For Children

Ski Hut offers two ski Packs designed for children too. For the little ones (2-6 years old), our in resort ski technicians will offer the right equipment for their level, so they can discover skiing in the best conditions; small skis, small boots (and small poles if necessary). For the older children (7-12 years old), equally suitable equipment is available to rent. These skis are more stable, yet still light in weight, and they’ll allow your child to progress with confidence while having maximum fun.

ski_kids

Skis…and snowboards

For snowboard enthusiasts (beginners to advanced), Ski Hut also has exactly what you need! In resort our technicians will chat with you and find out your level. They’ll offer you the most suitable snowboard to suit your profile, and to ensure your riding on (or off) the slopes is maximised. Depending on your level choose between small or large boards, from soft to rigid, yes, we have something for everyone. Don’t waste anymore time, book now and then head to our Ski Hut shop to pick up your equipment… The slopes are waiting for you!

 

As you can see we have everything for everyone here at Ski Hut. And if you still have doubts, pop into one of our resort rental shops and chat to our expert ski technicians. Have fun on the slopes.

BOOK AT LA PLAGNE
BOOK AT VAL D'ISERE

SKI HUT, A MORE RESPONSIBLE WAY OF RENTING SKI EQUIPMENT?

 Did you know, in France 263 000 skis are thrown out each year (https://www.adnskis.com/#projet)? It’s a huge shame as most are still in very good condition and perfect for rental consumption, the only thing is they are not the latest models.

For many of us, trying to be more responsible with our consumption is now part of our everyday life. This responsibility does not have to stop there though, and can continue to your ski holiday. Here at Ski Hut we want to show you how you can rent more responsibly, at the same time as saving you money. Sounds impossible? Well read on…

 

The Ski Hut concept

Ski Hut is like no other rental store… We ‘re-rent’ skis and snowboards that have previously come from high-end rental shops. We give a second life to this equipment, which is usually in good condition, through our expert maintenance and servicing. Because we are not buying brand new, our prices are very affordable and do not change all season. There are no hidden costs. The price you see is the price you pay.

Thanks to Ski Hut, skis, poles, snowboards and pairs boots are thus kept in circulation thanks to our expert care and attention. Our goal is to allow you to enjoy the pleasures of skiing (or snowboarding), without breaking the bank, and while offering a small gesture to our planet with 2nd life equipment.

However, one thing that does not get overlooked, is the quality of our service. Our qualified ski technicians make every effort to provide you with the best advice and support when choosing your equipment. They also take great care servicing our skis and snowboards, helping extend their lifespan at the same time as providing the best possible sliding experience for you.

Shop Ski Hut

Skis and snowboards for everyone, at lower costs

We offer a variety of skis and snowboards for all levels, all tastes and all ages.

In fact, from 2 years old, your little ones can enjoy sliding on snow thanks to equipment perfectly adapted to them. For the older ones, they can also have lots of fun on the slopes with our range especially designed for 7-12 year olds. What is even better is, this all costs between 5€ and 8€ per day (skis, boots and poles).

As for you adults, you can rent your equipment according to your level, your confidence on the slopes and your desires. Beginners, intermediates or advanced, everyone will find skis (or snowboards) at Ski Hut!

Range-products

The Ski Hut Workshop

Ski Hut isn’t just about rental equipment. We also offer professional equipment servicing for your own personal skis or boards.

Choose between a simple edge sharpening or complete service, including filling, sharpening and structuring. At Ski Hut, you will find what you are looking for, always at a reasonable price! Our ski technicians take great pride and care in what they do, and your skis and snowboards are always in the best of hands.

 

workshop ski hut

So, as you can see, by choosing Ski Hut you’ll make your wallet happier at the same time as pleasing Mother Nature. So what are you waiting for? Book your equipment hire now.

BOOK AT LA PLAGNE
BOOK AT VAL D'ISERE

SKIING ON A BUDGET IN LA PLAGNE

It’s a well known fact that skiing, whether with your friends or family, is not one of the best budget-friendly holiday options. Travel, accommodation, lift passes, ski lessons and equipment hire all add up. By the time you’ve made it to resort your wallet might be groaning. But not to worry! We’ve come up with a list of the best places in La Plagne to have a drink, a bite to eat and enjoy yourself without breaking the bank. So give your wallet a breather and follow our top tips!

 

Our top tip for… staying in resort without spending a fortune

Are you visiting la Plagne with a group? Book your stay at Ho36, a new generation youth hostel, in dorms of 4-14 people from just  20€ per night! Families are also welcome and can book one of 20 private rooms sleeping 2-6 people from 85€ per night.

Our top tip for….skiing more for less!

Plan your trip over a weekend. The lift pass company (SAP) offers two types of reduced price lift passes every weekend of the season! “SAMEDIJESKIE” (Saturday I ski) et “DIMANCHE MALIN” (Crafty Sunday) are adult lift passes priced at 36 € and 44 € respectively. They are only available to buy online so jump onto https://www.skipass-laplagne.com/en/ and start saving!

La Plagne ski resort

Our top tips for… eating and drinking on the slopes

Fancy a drink on the slopes without spending and arm and a leg?

Stop off at Fort Colorado. Order a hot chocolate or a beer and snack on a hot-dog or panini in an unusual setting with a relaxed atmosphere for less than 10€! Marion  and her team are open for business every day from 11am – 7pm, on the slopes just above the snow-front in the centre of la Plagne. It has the added bonus of also being accessible to non-skiers.

Fast food on the slopes of Bellecôte 

Fast and inexpensive, take a break at the Bonnet at Plagne Bellcote to recharge your batteries. Here you will find a burger, chips and beer for less than 20€. You can even take-away to have a picnic on the slopes.

A snack stop for less than 10 €

After a long day of skiing you will have earned an afternoon tea stop at FLOE. Go for a belgian waffle, a tiramisu, a lemon mousse or a homemade crumble. There’s something for everyone and all at great prices. You’ll find this café above the bus station in the centre of resort with its sun loungers looking out at the view of Mont Blanc..

Our top tip for… having fun!

Activities to enjoy with friends or family

Don’t leave resort without having a go on the ice rink.  Great for kids as well as adults, the ice-rink is open from 10am to 10pm every day during school holidays. Spills, thrills and laughter guaranteed.

Entry with ice-skate hire: 8 € 

Under 12s with ice-skate hire: 5 € 

Family ticket (2 adults and 2 children): 20 € 

Our top tip for… eating like a local

The best Savoyard dishes on a budget 

Delicious tartiflettes, croziflettes and cheese fondus for just 19.50€ per person await you at La Godille restaurant at Belle Plagne. These local dishes are ofen quite pricey but we promise, at La Godille your belly and your wallet won’t be disappointed.

Our top tip for… partying in resort

Après-ski and evening venue

From 3pm things are just warming up on the terrace of SOMEWHERE! Have a drink and get your boogie on in the open air to a selection of DJs, in Plagne 1800. Home-made shooters are a must-try and the more you drink, the better the value!

1 shooter = 4 €

3 shooters = 10 €

10 shooters = 30 € 

Go out without breaking the bank

Scottys Bar is the pub to go to in Plagne Centre. Music, DJ and a French-English atmosphere, there’s plenty going on to keep you dancing all night long. Pop in on a Sunday for their best deals on beer and cocktails!

And of course, our top tip for… hiring your ski equipment

Rent ski/snowboard equipment for less than 10€ per day!

Ski Hut offers you low cost ski and snowboard hire without compromising on quality or service. Our honest and transparent prices make it easy for you to budget for your ski holidays.

 

Ski Hut is located at the entrance to Plagne Centre, on the left by the petrol station near the Bergerie ski lift. There is a large free car park in front making it practical for you to pop in and collect your pre-ordered equipment.

Book your equipment now!

SKI HUT: BEHIND THE SCENES

As you might already know, at Ski Hut our mission is to provide ski and snowboard equipment at low prices without compromising on quality or service. We believe in complete transparency when it comes to service so that you, our customers, know exactly what it is you’re paying for. To that end we wanted to show you exactly what happens to your skis before you pick them up at one of our shops.

So if you want to know what goes on behind the scenes here at Ski Hut, welcome to a peek behind the scenes, where Guillaume talks you through exactly what happens to your skis before you rent them.

So now you know how we treat your skis at Ski Hut in between each and every rental, why go elsewhere and pay more for less?

Rent skis in Val d'Isere
Rent skis in La Plagne