Just returned from a great one week holiday in a privately owned appartment which was advertised on the Valmeinier site. Most of the accomodation was near to the slopes and some was virtually ski -in, ski-out. We thought the accomodation (75 euros each) and lift pass (170 euros) were good value but if we had booked through Locasun (e.g. Camille A) or through the Valmeinier Central reservation (for wb 23rd March), we would have got a 50 euro reduction on each person's lift pass.
The village is small and everything is within walking distance. The Spar supermarket isn't huge but stocks most things. We had to be out of our accomodation by 10am but our transfer wasn't arriving until 3pm so we used the 'Baggagerie' which was next to the Maison de Valmeinier (lower level - there is a free lift to take you down). They even have a shower room there so you can get an extra morning's ski in.
Everyone is very friendly in the resort. Not everyone speaks English which gives it a traditional feel. The nicest runs, I thought, were on the Valloire side but it doesn't take long to get across. Beware, there is no public transport between Valmeinier and Valloire - we had to get a 40 euros taxi back when someone in our group couldn't ski it.
I would thoroughly recommend the area for intermediate skiers and boarders. My husband and son took boards and had a great time. Although the resort isn't massive we didn't get to cover the whole resort in a week. The mountain restaurants, as expected, were dear (chips 5 euros). In Valmeinier 1500, a short walk from the Roi and Armera lifts, there is a small restaurant which the locals use. Chips are 3 euros and Plat du Jour 10 euros. (Kir only 1 euro 50!) For a great meal out in 1800, try Estaminet but you will need to book.
The only disadvantage is the transfer cost and time - over 2 hours from Lyons or Geneva. Worth it though!