There is something truly enchanting about arriving in a ski resort blanketed in fresh snow, where the air feels crisp and the light dances across the peaks. Our visit to Val Thorens last winter was exactly that kind of magical experience, made even more memorable by our stay at Altapura, a refined five-star haven that blends Nordic-inspired style with the warmth of a traditional alpine retreat. From the moment we stepped inside, we were surrounded by understated luxury, thoughtful design, and a team whose genuine warmth made us feel immediately at home.
A Warm Alpine Welcome at Altapura
From arrival to departure, the service at Altapura was exceptional. At check-in, Sam greeted us with professionalism and charm, ensuring the process was seamless and that we were familiar with everything the hotel had to offer. Lito, the valet, was wonderfully attentive, handling our luggage and car with efficiency and a smile.
Antoine, the concierge, was another highlight. His deep knowledge of Val Thorens made planning our days effortless. He offered thoughtful suggestions for ski runs, dining, and après-ski spots, ensuring we experienced the very best of the resort. When it came time to leave, Lisa at checkout made sure everything was perfectly arranged, her warmth and energy rounding off our stay with the same polish it began.
A Chic and Cosy Retreat
Our Deluxe Room at Altapura was a beautiful blend of alpine charm and contemporary luxury. The natural wood, soft furnishings, and muted tones created an atmosphere of calm sophistication. After long days on the slopes, the room became our private sanctuary, a place to unwind and recharge. One of our favourite features was the large in-room television with complimentary movies, perfect for snowy evenings when the world outside disappeared in a whiteout. It was equally suited to families wanting entertainment for the children, couples enjoying a romantic night in, or those simply wishing to relax with some room service and a good film.
The room had everything we could need, from a sumptuous bed to a stylish bathroom complete with high-quality amenities. Every detail had been carefully considered to create an effortless sense of comfort, and the result was a space that felt luxurious yet welcoming.
Ski-In, Ski-Out Perfection
Altapura’s location is ideal for those who love the slopes. With ski-in, ski-out access, we could step straight from the hotel to the pistes each morning, making the most of our time in Europe’s highest ski resort. The in-house ski shop, managed by the ever-efficient Rémy, made the experience even easier. He ensured our equipment was perfectly fitted and ready each day, while the on-site lockers meant we could store everything safely and conveniently between outings. The ability to start and end our ski sessions right at the hotel door was a luxury that quickly became essential.
Val Thorens itself proved the perfect playground for all levels of skier, with beautifully maintained runs and breathtaking alpine views. Returning to Altapura after a day on the mountain felt like coming home, with every comfort waiting just beyond the entrance.
A Spa Sanctuary by Codage
After several days of skiing, a visit to the Spa by Codage was the perfect way to soothe tired muscles. The atmosphere was serene and elegant, filled with the scent of essential oils and the soft sound of water. We chose a couples massage in one of the spa’s calming double treatment rooms, and from the moment we began, the therapists’ expertise was clear. They focused precisely on our shoulders and backs as requested, releasing every ache and knot from days spent on the slopes.
The use of Codage oils and lotions added an extra layer of indulgence, their luxurious textures and subtle fragrances leaving our skin nourished and our minds relaxed. The experience was both deeply restorative and wonderfully tranquil, a perfect counterbalance to the exhilaration of skiing.
A Culinary Adventure at Altayaki
One evening, we dined at Altayaki, the hotel’s Asian fusion restaurant, which turned out to be one of the highlights of our stay. The atmosphere was chic yet relaxed, with chilled street-rap music giving the space a contemporary energy that paired beautifully with the sleek design. Our waiter, Matthieu, was engaging and witty, his personality adding a lighthearted touch to an otherwise refined dining experience. In the kitchen, Chef Alexis was creating dishes that combined flair, creativity, and exceptional flavour.
We began with edamame accompanied by pickled ginger and teriyaki sauce, a deliciously simple starter elevated by the sweet glaze. The homemade kimchi was wonderfully fiery, the perfect balance of spice and crunch. Next came the crab cake, inspired by a friend of the chef from the United States, who originally based it on a lobster recipe. It was delicate and full of character, a dish that captured the spirit of Altayaki’s inventive approach.
The vegetable samosas were crisp and golden, paired with a Japanese curry sauce that provided an unexpected but delightful twist. The aubergine dish was another standout, beautifully cooked and subtly sweet with layers of flavour that lingered. For mains, the sea bream with Asian vegetables and bean sprouts was fresh and light, while the wagyu beef with pumpkin was pure indulgence. The vinaigrette-based dip provided a perfect contrast to the richness of the meat, resulting in a dish that was elegant and perfectly balanced.
An Unforgettable Alpine Escape
The hotel’s combination of five-star luxury, contemporary design, and genuine warmth made our stay truly memorable. Every space within the property felt harmonious, from the stylish lobby to the inviting spa and the excellent dining venues.
What truly distinguishes Altapura, however, is its people. From Sam and Lisa to Lito, Antoine, Rémy, Matthieu, and Alexis, every member of the team contributed to an atmosphere that felt both professional and personal. Their kindness, attention to detail, and effortless charm made every moment of our stay truly exceptional.
For travellers seeking a winter retreat that balances adventure with indulgence, Altapura in Val Thorens is the perfect choice. It offers all the excitement of world-class skiing paired with the serenity of refined alpine living. Our winter stay was a masterclass in hospitality, comfort, and style, a reminder that the most memorable getaways are those where every detail is carefully crafted.
Hôtel Altapura Val Thorens
Rue du bouchet
73440 Val Thorens
France
