Looking at the other reviews, it is clear that this format doesn't suit everyone. We had done our research, thoroughly reviewing the website and everything from the signature music to the warm welcome was spot on. We did get a good room with a balcony and view, it was totally fine for our needs, contemporary, clean and cleaned every day. Only considerations, which we did mention to some of the hotel team were the pillows - lumpy - take a travel pillow with you and there is no fridge in the room - we had a balcony and snow, so not a problem and quite honestly, when you are provided with a litre bottle of water every day and the bar is open all hours what more do you need?
The skiing - which is why you are there after all - we opted in for ski lessons (last ones were 30 years ago!) and went for the top group of on-piste skiing, we had FX as an instructor, he is from Vietnam originally but has spent the last 30 years in Val Thorens, knows everyone and is fantastic. He pushed us every day and at the same time ensured we were safe on bad weather days. We had a mix, 2 days great weather, 2 days snow, 2 days great weather again. We had a great time and were given tips to get out of the bad habits we had been using. The ski area is phenomenal and our last day with FX took us to Courcheval and Meribel - beautiful. Ski in and ski out was superb, we hired our skis from Skimium Oh Shop in the village, slightly cheaper than from the hotel and they were great. Boot room was fab, locker totally adequate and boots dry for next day.
Food at the hotel - not fans of buffets usually, but this is a whole different concept - stations of chefs finishing dishes plus a massive selection to choose from. The style of the food was typically french, but why wouldn't it be, we are in France!! Plus the quality of the offering was superb. Etienne the assistant head chef, was hands on, always checking the quality, quantity and serving - delightful to talk to and the escargot, fois gras, meat roasts were exceptional. If you wanted cooked to order further than the finish stations within the buffet you could eat at the 3rd floor restaurant Epicurious - we went once, but preferred the atmosphere and choice of the 1st floor buffet style restaurant. The house wines were all very drinkable, and you could order a glass and would be left the bottle, made after lunch skiing very relaxed - ha ha!
The entertainment - this was in the main bar and usually starting at about 9.45 - the energy, commitment and enthusiasm of the hotel staff performing was brilliant. The GM as Tina Turner, was 'simply the best'!! If you didn't want the noise and energy, you could drink in the 3rd floor Epicurious bar, so all needs are met.
Overall - would we go back? Yes! Did we love the food? Yes! Did we meet great people? Yes - Bruno from the guest welcoming team was lovely and always looked out for us to say hello and Gabby - the only American behind the bar - was delightful, fun and welcoming - our vote is keep her in Europe Club Med she's an asset!
Thank you Club Med - we look forward to seeing you again!
