Les Deux Alpes, France

Andy O'Neil from UNITED KINGDOM writes:

Just got back from a week in Les Deux Alpes. After reading the previous reports, I must say that I agree with many of the negative comments regarding this resort. The key problem lies with the general access back to the village especially if you are on a board. Whilst the two black runs are ok if you are experienced, the long, winding green is a waste of time if you are a beginner or intermediate even after ample snowfall which we were lucky to receive during our stay. The need for a blue or red grade run back to town really stands out and restricts the return journey for most to the long gondola rides. I will say though, that once up to altitude there are a number of runs which are world class, with wide open pistes, plenty of park area, and lots of potential for back country boarding. That said, the exposed nature of the glacier and mid regions results in the potential for extremely high winds which can severely detract from the whole experience. In fact this week we had winds in excess of 80kph which made conditions almost unbearable even with the glorious sunshine.

There is one final criticism. Unfortunately, there were a number of instances where our group came into contact with extremely rude and arrogant staff from both the lift company and the bar and shop owners. I wonder sometimes if the local French really appreciate the substantial foreign currency that is injected into their businesses by the many visiting nationalities, for the adverse comments were not only directed at the British. Maybe we should all look to resorts elsewhere for a few years to really change a few attitudes and actually make them grateful for our presence.
I know that this report is fairly negative and I haven't mentioned the high prices and filthy toilets, but we generally had a fun week and stayed in perfectly adequate accommodation for the money. It's just a shame that I don't think any of us will want to return to Les Deux Alpes.

2008-02-10