Comparing Tignes Le Lac vs Val Claret: Where Should You Stay?

May 14, 2025 pierce

Planning a trip to Tignes and stuck choosing between Tignes Le Lac or Val Claret? You’re not alone. These two neighbouring areas are the heart of the Tignes ski resort – and while they’re close enough to walk or hop on the free bus between them, they each offer a slightly different feel.

So, which one’s better for your ski holiday? Well, that depends. Let’s take a closer look at the differences – from slopes and scenery to food, atmosphere, and everything in between.

Location & Layout: Getting Your Bearings

Tignes is made up of a few villages, and the two most popular options for accommodation are Tignes Le Lac and Val Claret. There’s also Tignes Le Lavachet, Tignes 1800, and the charming Tignes Les Brévières – but Le Lac and Val Claret are right in the centre of the action.

Tignes Le Lac sits by the frozen lake (hence the name) and is slightly lower in altitude. It feels like the central hub – with shops, restaurants, and plenty of ski schools. Val Claret is just a short shuttle ride up the road, a little higher up the mountain, and tends to attract a younger, more energetic crowd.

There’s a free bus service running regularly between all the villages, so you’re never really far from anything – even if you end up staying in one and skiing in the other.

Ski Access: Which Base Is Better?

To be honest, both areas offer great access to the slopes. You can ski in and out from most types of ski accommodation in Tignes Le Lac and Val Claret – especially if you’re staying right by the lifts. They’re both part of the vast Tignes–Val d’Isère ski area, with hundreds of kilometres of pistes, plus off-piste options for the more adventurous.

Val Claret has quick access to the Grande Motte glacier via the funicular and cable car system, which means snow-sure skiing even in early December or late spring. Tignes Le Lac, on the other hand, connects easily to the Tovière lift and onward to Val d’Isère.

If you’re travelling with beginners, Le Lac might feel a bit more beginner-friendly. The slopes just above the lake are a little gentler, and there’s a good mix of green and blue runs nearby.

Atmosphere: Busy Buzz or Laid-Back Comfort?

This is where personal preference really comes into play. Val Claret tends to be livelier – with more bars, clubs, and late-night options. It’s a popular choice for groups, younger skiers, and anyone looking for a bit of après ski action after the lifts close.

Tignes Le Lac has a slightly calmer, more rounded feel. There are still plenty of bars and restaurants, but the atmosphere is a touch more relaxed. Families often prefer it here, and it’s a good base if you want to enjoy the mountains without the full party scene.

That said, it’s not sleepy – just balanced. A few local spots in Le Lac get lively in the evenings, especially around the lakefront area.

Accommodation Options: Where to Stay?

Accommodation is plentiful in both areas. Tignes Le Lac has everything from cosy apartments to larger hotels – many right by the lifts. It’s easy to find ski in ski out places here, especially along the front de neige.

Val Claret also has a wide range of places to stay, including budget apartments, higher-end chalets, and a few lively hotels aimed at the younger crowd. Tignes Val Claret accommodation is great if you want to be close to the glacier and have a short walk to the main lifts in the morning.

You won’t be short on choice in either area – but the style, vibe, and price point can vary quite a bit. Here’s a quick snapshot to help narrow it down.

Tignes Le Lac Accommodation

1. Budget – Résidence Le Home Club
A no-frills apartment block that’s great for skiers who just need a warm place to crash. It’s basic but central, with kitchens for self-catering and easy access to lifts.

2. Mid-range – Hôtel Le Refuge
Right by the lake and minutes from the slopes, this charming three-star hotel offers comfort without being over the top. A friendly atmosphere, good breakfast, and panoramic views make it popular with returning guests.

3. Luxury – Hôtel Les Suites du Montana
Five stars and slope-side. This chalet-style hotel offers spacious suites with saunas, fireplaces, and ski-in ski-out access. It’s one of the most upscale options in Tignes and delivers a proper luxury experience.

Tignes Val Claret Accommodation

1. Budget – Résidence Le Hameau du Borsat
Affordable, practical, and right by the lifts – perfect if you’re prioritising skiing over luxury. Popular with students and groups, especially during peak weeks.

2. Mid-range – CGH Résidences & Spas Le Jhana
A modern apartment-style stay with access to spa facilities at a nearby sister property. A nice step up from budget options, with great views and cosy interiors.

3. Luxury – Hôtel Les Suites – Maison Bouvier
Tastefully decorated by Catherine Bouvier, this five-star hotel is ideal if you’re after a bit of indulgence. Spa, fine dining, spacious suites – all wrapped in tasteful Alpine design.

Le Lavachet, by the way, is worth a quick mention – it’s smaller and quieter, with fewer crowds, but still connected to the rest of the resort by bus. Some people love it for its peaceful vibe and slightly lower prices.

Food, Shops & Nightlife: What’s On Offer?

Both areas have a decent mix of restaurants, snack bars, and shops. Val Claret leans slightly more towards quick bites, student-friendly prices, and sports shops packed with gear and rentals. You’ll find a few popular burger places and late-night haunts here too.

Tignes Le Lac has a more traditional Alpine feel in parts – with fondue spots, wine bars, and more relaxed dining. There’s a nice mix of casual and cosy. That said, don’t expect rustic wooden chalets everywhere – Tignes is modern in style, especially compared to resorts like nearby Val d’Isère.

Summer in Tignes: A Quick Aside

If you’re thinking beyond the ski season, both Le Lac and Val Claret have plenty going on in summer too. Mountain biking is a big draw – the lifts run in July and August, and the trails are brilliant. Val Claret gives quicker access to higher terrain, while Le Lac sits closer to the lake itself, where you’ll find paddleboarding, archery, and even a beach area.

Again, the free shuttle bus makes it easy to move between them – so your choice doesn’t need to be too final.

Travel & Transfers

Wondering how to get to Tignes? The nearest major airports to Tignes are Geneva, Lyon, and Grenoble – with Chambery a bit closer but with fewer flights. From any of these, a transfer to Tignes takes around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and weather.

Thinking of booking your Tignes transfer? Alps2Alps offers reliable, affordable transfers from all major airports to the villages of Tignes – including Tignes Le Lac, Val Claret, Tignes 1800, Le Lavachet and Tignes Les Brévières.

FAQs: Tignes Le Lac or Val Claret?

Q: Which area is better for beginners – Tignes Le Lac or Val Claret?
A: Tignes Le Lac tends to be slightly more beginner-friendly. The local ski slopes are a bit gentler, and ski schools like ESF and Evolution 2 have a strong presence. That said, both villages are connected – so no matter where you stay, you can explore the full range.

Q: Is Val Claret better for après ski than Le Lac?
A: Depends on your taste. Val Claret has a slightly livelier late-night scene – places like Cocorico and Couloir Bar keep things buzzing. Le Lac’s après ski is more laid-back, with cosy bars and lake views. Less rowdy, more relaxed.

Q: How do I get between Tignes Le Lac and Val Claret?
A: Easy – there’s a free bus service running between all the main villages of Tignes, including Le Lac, Val Claret, Le Lavachet, and Tignes 1800. It runs regularly and late, so hopping between bars, shops, or ski lifts is no big deal.

Q: What’s the main difference in ski access between the two?
A: Val Claret edges ahead for glacier access. You’ve got the funicular and cable car straight up to the Grande Motte, which is great for high-altitude skiing. Le Lac still has excellent ski-in ski-out access, especially around the Palafour and Aeroski lifts.

Q: How far is Tignes from the nearest airport?
A: Geneva is one of the most convenient airports to Tignes, around 3 to 3.5 hours away depending on weather and traffic. Other nearby options include Lyon, Chambéry, and Grenoble – but Geneva tends to have the best flight variety.

Q: What about summer stays – Le Lac or Val Claret?
A: Le Lac is better if you want to be near the lake (paddleboarding, archery, chill-out spots), while Val Claret gives faster access to higher terrain for mountain biking and hiking. Both offer a base for summer in the Alps – it really depends on what you’re into.

Q: Can I visit Val d’Isère from Tignes?
A: Definitely. Tignes and Val d’Isère are connected by lift and piste as part of the shared ski area. In winter, you can ski straight over. In summer, it’s a little trickier – but still accessible via shuttle bus or mountain routes if you’re keen.

Let’s Sum It Up

If you want easy access to ski slopes, ski schools, and a good balance of energy and calm – Tignes Le Lac is a solid choice. Great for families, couples, and anyone looking for variety without the party-heavy vibe.

If you’re travelling with friends, planning a few late nights, or want to be close to glacier skiing and high-altitude terrain – Val Claret might suit you better. It’s fun, fast-paced, and has everything you need within a short walk.

In the end? You can’t really go wrong. And thanks to the shuttle bus and lift system, it’s all one big, connected ski area. So wherever you stay, you’re never far from the action.

Secure your Geneva to Tignes transfer for a door-to-door service that’s easy, hassle-free, and timed perfectly with your flight.

Ready when you are.

Author Information

This article was co-written by…

Denis Elkin, Chief Marketing Officer

Bringing over 10 years of experience across travel, ride-sharing, transport, mobility and tech, Denis Elkin, our Chief Marketing Officer, has a passion for seamless journeys and mountain adventures. When he’s not crafting killer marketing strategies, you’ll find Denis exploring new slopes or enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the Alps.