Les Menuires

Without a doubt, Les Menuires is the most affordable way to experience Les Trois Vallées. It and Courchevel and Méribel share a ski region, although it offers less expensive lodging and a less glamorous atmosphere. The resort region is perfect for groups of friends who want to rent a traditional chalet, party on the slopes during the day, then retreat to their cocoon for handmade fondue and vin chaud during the evening.

This is the largest properly interconnected ski region in the world, with 370 miles of groomed and waymarked pistes with plenty of off-piste in between. Although it's best suited for intermediates, it actually has everything, from superb nursery slopes to powder lines that are rated by experts. It should be tried by everyone at least once.

It has never been fashionable despite being located below some of the best (and quietest) mid-level runs in the entire Three Valleys, partly because of the austere 1960s architecture at its core. So, if you don't mind the concrete-carbuncle vibe and stay in the convenient Sowell apartments with ski-in/ski-out access, you can actually get all of your holiday necessities for less money than at many less prestigious ski locations. The cost of ski school will undoubtedly increase. Families do, however, benefit from a wide variety of kid-friendly amenities, such as kids' clubs, two indoor public pools, a sizable soft play area, and a rail-mounted luge. Late-season skiers have easy access to nearby Val Thorens' high-altitude slopes as well.

Country: France
Best for: groups and down-to-earth charm

Average cost of a drink: Similar to UK prices, but make your way back down the mountain for Happy Hour in Les Houches’ bars (between 5-7pm). It’s not anarchic après-ski, but it’s still good fun.
Average cost for a ski pass: €47 (£41) for a day and €235 (£205) for 6 days.

Website: https://lesmenuires.com/en/