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Geneva Airport stands as one of Switzerland's premier international air hubs, an ideal gateway to reach the picturesque Alpine ski resorts. The journey from Geneva Airport to Val Thorens unfolds through two primary avenues:
Commencing your odyssey, depart Geneva Airport, steering your course southward along the A1 expressway, embarking on a trajectory towards France. After approximately 11 kilometers, the Swiss-French demarcation is gracefully traversed. Proceed onward for about 32 kilometers, subsequently veering towards the charming city of Annecy. Thereafter, your expedition unveils the resplendent expanse of Lake Annecy, with the option to trace its left bank (via route D1508) or the right bank, a wise choice during the bustling hours (D909A). Further along, you shall traverse Albertville and eventually merge onto the N90, a thoroughfare that guides you to the haven of Moutiers, some 26 kilometers down the road.
From Moûtiers, your sojourn to Val Thorens navigates you through the meandering roads of D915 and D91A, encompassing approximately 16 kilometers. The final leg of this journey, a winding serpentine route, may demand anywhere from 0.5 to 1.5 hours, contingent upon meteorological conditions (especially in the case of heavy snowfall) and the density of vehicular traffic.
The collective span of this expedition, spanning from Geneva Airport to Val Thorens, calculates to be approximately 155 kilometers (dependent upon the specific ski station you aim to reach). The mean transit time registers at 2,5 - 3,5 hours, although, on rare occasions during holidays, it might extend to a remarkable 6-7 hours.
The secondary passage to Val Thorens shares resemblances with the initial route, yet does possess certain deviations. It begins with your traversal across the Swiss-French boundary, an entry point identical to the prior route. You persist on the A41 motorway, however, refraining from detouring towards Annecy, proceeding forthrightly. After embarking on an 82-kilometer trek from Geneva Airport, you make a pivotal turn towards Chambery, accessing the N201, which subsequently transitions into A43 and N90. Your sojourn continues unabated, directing you through Albertville, mirroring the path of the former route, leading you to Moutiers.
The length of this itinerary, extending from Geneva Airport to Val Thorens, approximates 201 kilometers. Typically, the travel duration spans from 2.5 to 3.5 hours; although, during holidays or inclement weather conditions, the journey may extend beyond this estimate.
You order a transfer on our website | |
We send you a confirmation and contact details | |
Our driver meets you at the airport arrival with a sign displaying your name | |
The driver takes you to your hotel or apartment in Val Thorens | |
You make the balance payment to the driver |
Over the course of more than a decade, we've been steadfast in our commitment to providing unparalleled transportation services, including personalized transfers from Geneva Airport to the enchanting destination of Val Thorens. If you're envisioning a winter escapade amidst the pristine slopes of this ski resort, your journey begins with reserving a chauffeur-driven car through our esteemed service. Simply communicate your travel date and time via WhatsApp, email, or our user-friendly order form on our website.
Selecting a private transfer accompanied by your personal driver from Geneva to Val Thorens presents itself as the epitome of convenience for reaching your holiday haven. Let's delve into a few pivotal considerations that should shape your choice of transportation.
Transfer versus Taxi:
The taxi option comes at a steep price, nearly double that of a transfer. A taxi ride from Geneva to Val Thorens can easily tally up to 650 CHF (for a standard vehicle), whereas our transfer service costs a mere 300 euro. Furthermore, taxi fares tend to be unpredictable, with fluctuations depending on the commencement time of your journey, the number of passengers, luggage, and supplemental fees for ski equipment.
Bus and train or transfer:
Opting for the bus and train route from Geneva to Val Thorens might seem more economical on the surface, but it necessitates multiple transfers and extends your travel time to approximately 5-6 hours. Trains only run up to Moutiers, mandating additional train or taxi transfers. Furthermore, you'll find yourself frequently managing and relocating your luggage and ski gear.
Helicopter versus Transfer:
While a helicopter ride from Geneva to Val Thorens boasts unparalleled convenience and speed, clocking in at just 35-40 minutes, this mode of transport does come with its drawbacks. The hefty price tag, at 2 365 euro (in addition to a supplementary 300 euro for luggage transfer by car, since helicopters lack capacity for large suitcases and skis), can be a deterrent. Moreover, flight cancellations or delays due to adverse mountain weather conditions are not uncommon. Keep in mind that a 30-minute arrival window is necessary before takeoff, and upon landing at Val Thorens airfield, a car transfer to your hotel is essential, resulting in a total travel time of roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, not substantially less than a ground transfer.
Upon your arrival at Geneva Airport, locating our designated driver is a seamless process. After retrieving your baggage, our driver will be awaiting your arrival at the exit from the arrival zone, holding a sign bearing your name or surname.
Given the bustling nature of airports, sifting through numerous signs can pose a challenge, prompting us to provide you in advance with the driver's contact details, encompassing their name and WhatsApp/phone number. Although Geneva Airport boasts free Wi-Fi, connectivity may not be consistently reliable, making it advisable to activate mobile internet roaming for seamless WhatsApp communication with the driver.
Our driver diligently monitors your flight status through our dedicated app, ensuring that any flight delays are accommodated, with the driver patiently awaiting your arrival. In cases of substantial flight delays, we are prepared to arrange an alternate driver.
Notably, the transfer price incorporates a complimentary one-hour waiting period after your flight touches down. If you anticipate an extended stay at the airport beyond the initial hour, kindly apprise us at the time of booking, allowing us to tailor the driver's arrival time and prevent unwarranted supplementary charges (typically ranging from 50 to 80 euros per hour, contingent on the vehicle class).
On typical weekdays, the transfer from Geneva Airport to Val Thorens encompasses an approximate duration of 2.5 hours, though this timeframe can fluctuate significantly in response to traffic conditions.
Journey Duration from Geneva Airport to Val Thorens: Saturdays experience a surge in road traffic, as a majority of travelers opt for Saturday arrivals and departures, consequently elongating the journey to a duration of 3,5 hours.
For travelers returning from Val Thorens to Geneva Airport on weekday mornings, it's important to note that this timeframe coincides with the daily migration of French commuters to their workplaces in Switzerland, culminating in considerable traffic congestion at the French-Swiss border, thereby extending travel times to 3,5 hours.
Additionally, substantial travel delays can be anticipated during the onset and conclusion of French school vacations. As parents opt to savor quality family time amidst the snow-drenched Alpine slopes, these holiday periods, specifically the Christmas holidays from December 23, 2023, to January 8, 2024, and the winter holidays from February 17 to March 04. This means that in the first and last Saturdays at the beginning and end of these periods the travel time can be 4,5 - 5,5 hours..
Ensuring an impeccable holiday experience, we highly recommend meticulous planning when it comes to scheduling your transfers.
When you reserve a transfer to Val Thorens with us, we delve deep into the details of your baggage. This information is absolutely critical because overlooking any aspect could lead to spatial constraints within the vehicle, potentially requiring an additional car booking (if available) and incurring additional costs.
Suitcases come in a spectrum of sizes, and it is of utmost importance to measure them accurately and provide us with the precise specifications.
Size "S": height 48-53 cm; width 32-35 cm; thickness 20-23 cm
Size "M": height 58-63 cm; width 39-42 cm; thickness 23-26 cm
Size "L": height 65-70 cm; width 47-50 cm; thickness 26-29 cm
Size "XL": height 74-80 cm; width 51-54 cm; thickness 30-32 cm
From a luggage perspective, ski and snowboard covers can be classified into two primary categories: "soft" (compact) and "hard" (equipped with wheels).
Soft covers relatively space-efficient, typically slightly exceed the length of the skis or snowboards they house (1.3 - 1.7 m). These are easily accommodated within the car's luggage compartment, even in vans.
Hard covers, especially those equipped with wheels, demand substantial space in both length (up to 2.1 m) and width (up to 40 cm). Due to their minimal deformability, fitting them even within a van becomes quite challenging and consumes considerable space.
Beyond covers and suitcases, travelers frequently bring along backpacks, bags, ski boot bags, packages, baby strollers, and more. Regrettably, passengers often overlook mentioning these items, providing information solely on suitcases and ski/snowboard cases. This complicates the transportation process as smaller carry-on items tend to accumulate, often encroaching upon passenger legroom.
Please remember to apprise us of all your luggage items to facilitate our ability to allocate the appropriate-sized vehicle.
For a comfortable journey from Geneva Airport to the ski resort, selecting the suitable vehicle is paramount. Typically, this decision revolves around two key parameters: capacity and class.
Small car: these sedans or crossovers, such as Audi A4, Volkswagen Passat, BMW X3, Mercedes E and S class, are apt for small groups with minimal luggage. They can comfortably accommodate 2-3 passengers, 2-3 size M or L suitcases, some hand luggage, and skis in soft cases.
Vans or minibuses: options like Renault Trafic, Volkswagen Multivan, Mercedes V class, or similar vehicles are ideal for groups of 4-8 passengers with 6-9 pieces of luggage, depending on their size (M, L, or XL). These vehicles can also comfortably house hand luggage and both soft and hard large ski cases.
Buses like the Mercedes Sprinter are capable of transporting 12-20 passengers along with 14-18 suitcases of various sizes and up to 12-16 skis/snowboards (depending on the type of carriers). If you have a substantial amount of luggage or oversized items, a trailer can also be arranged.
It's essential to note that each specific combination of luggage and group size is evaluated individually, and the vehicle is chosen accordingly for each transfer.
Travelers make their car choice based on their comfort preferences and the vehicle class.
Economy class: This budget-friendly option offers limited interior space and a relatively simple cabin. It includes models like Volkswagen Jetta or Ford Focus, as well as Fiat Scudo or Citroen Jumpy for vans.
Comfort class: Though pricier, this class ensures a more comfortable ride due to its spacious interior and enhanced materials. Passenger cars such as Volkswagen Passat or Toyota Camry, and vans like Renault Trafic and Volkswagen Multivan fall under this category.
Business class: Further up the price scale, this class provides heightened comfort with ample interior space and premium, modern materials. Vehicles like the Mercedes E class and Mercedes Vito belong to this category.
Premium class: Represented by the Mercedes S class sedan and the Mercedes V class van, this is the pinnacle of luxury. These vehicles boast exceptionally comfortable seats and features tailored to meet the expectations of the most discerning passengers.
Write to info@bycar.su | |
Fill out the order form on the transfer page | |
Send a message to WhatsApp or Viber |
You can pay your transfer in several ways. Do not forget that few services are included in the cost of the trip.
For those journeying from Geneva Airport to Val Thorens, a taxi transfer is among the viable options. As you step out of the airport terminal, an array of taxi vehicles awaits your arrival. Booking a taxi is a straightforward process-simply approach the nearest available taxi and communicate your desired destination.
It's important to note that most taxi drivers predominantly converse in French, with a limited command of English. Therefore, it's wise to come equipped with comprehensive information about your hotel, including its precise address and name.
The majority of taxis available are compact vehicles, typically sedans or crossovers, designed to accommodate groups of 1 - 3 passengers along with a modest amount of luggage. However, these vehicles may not have the capacity to carry ski equipment. If your group comprises more than 4 individuals or you are traveling with an abundance of luggage and ski gear, locating a suitable van at the airport can be challenging, particularly during peak holiday periods or weekends.
Determining the exact cost of a taxi journey from Geneva Airport to Val Thorens in advance can be a complex task, owing to the multifaceted pricing structure.
Daytime rates = 3,20 CHF per kilometer
Applicable from Monday to Friday (06:30 - 20:30) and on Saturdays (06:30 - 18:00)
Applicable for groups of up to 3 pax
Nighttime and off-peak rates = 3,80CHF per kilometer
Applicable from Monday to Friday (20:30 - 06:30), on Saturdays (from 18:00 - 06:30), and on Sundays and holidays
Also applies to groups of 4 pax
Pricing varies based on the number of pax
1-2 pax = 4,20CHF per kilometer
3 pax = 4,40CHF per kilometer
4 pax = 5,20CHF per kilometer
5 or more pax = 6,50CHF per kilometer
Let's now calculate the estimated taxi fare for the journey from Geneva Airport to Val Thorens under a few common travel scenarios involving groups of tourists:
First Scenario:
2 pax, 3 suitcases L-size, and 1 ski and 1 snowboard
Arrival scheduled for 12:00 on a typical workday (e.g., Wednesday)
Ride by passenger car
Route distance: 201km
Fare = 201 km*3,2 + 5*1,5 + 6,3 = 657 CHF
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Second Scenario:
2 pax, 1 suitcase XL-size, 3 S suitcases and 2 skis in a bag
Arrival at 16:00 on a Sunday
Ride by passenger car
Route distance: 201 km
Fare = 201 km * 3,8 + 1 * 3 + 3 * 1,5 + 2 * 1,5 + 6,3 = 780,6 CHF
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Third Scenario:
5 pax, 6 suitcases XL-size, 2 suitcases L-size, 3 suitcases S and 5 skis
Planned arrival at 13:00 on a Saturday
Travel by minibus
Route distance: 201 km
Fare = 201 km * 5,2 + 6 * 3 + 2 * 1,5 + 3 * 1,5 + 3 * 1,5 + 6.3 = 1081,5 CHF
In conclusion, the taxi fare approximates twice the cost of a transfer service.
Experienced English-speaking drivers | |
Meeting you with a sign displaying your name | |
Fixed price | |
No extra charge if your flight is delayed | |
Road toll included | |
Free child seats | |
Wi-Fi | |
9 years of experience | |
We work in 8 countries in Europe |
In addition to the small airfield in Courchevel, Chambery airport is closest to Val Thorens. But mostly private planes fly into it or the cost of tickets is very high. Therefore, the most popular are the international airports of Lyon and Geneva.
from the airport of Geneva (Geneva International Airport - GVA) - 160 km
from Lyon airport (Lyon-Saint-Exupéry - Lyon-Saint Exupéry - LYS) - 199 km
from Chambery-Savoie Airport (CMF) – 122 km
Grenoble Airport (St Geoirs - GNB) - 194 km
Turin Airport (Torino Caselle - TRN) - 263 km
The ski resort of Val Thorens is a great place to spend your winter holidays if you like fun nightlife and high-level service. It is located in a national park at an altitude of 3,000 meters - a wonderful place! Val Thorens is called the "roof of the Three Valleys" because it is located in the highlands. The highest point is 3.300 m, and the ski village itself is 2.300 m. Most of the buildings in the village are multi-storey hotels. Val Thorens is characterized by high-level recreation, hotels here are at least 3 stars and it is quite difficult to find an inexpensive hotel, but the prices correspond to a high level of service.
Val Thorens is the highest resort in Western Europe, located in the vast and well-known ski area of the Three Valleys (Trois Vallees). The resort is great for skiing fans of all stripes, but not great for those who don't ski at all. There are no cars in Val Thorens - the resort is located right on the slopes, and at the entrance to the station the car must be left in the parking lot. Over the years of its existence, Val Thorens has evolved from a soulless station to a few cabins by the ski lift into a pretty pretty village.
Recommended for: riders of all levels, from beginners to experts, families, lovers of freeride, mountain restaurants, guaranteed snow, skiing to the door Not recommended: for lovers of nightlife, exclusive shopping and apres-ski, those who do not tolerate long transfers and serpentine, do not adapt well to altitude and cold, non-skiers
Val Thorens - Orelle - 140 km, Belleville Valley (300 km), all Three Valleys (more than 600 km of slopes) Val Thorens is located on different levels, on the southern slope, very convenient for skiing in the nearby valleys - both in the Belleville Valley, where Les Menuires and Saint Martin de Belleville are located, and in the Méribel Valley.
Due to the high location of the resort, snow is guaranteed even at the beginning and end of the season. Les Menuires is connected to Val Thorensam by bus. Below Menuire is the town of St. Martin de Belleville, where accommodation is cheaper.
Total length (in the Three Valleys) - 600 km, incl. blue - 40%, red - 45%, black - 15%
Season: from mid/late November to early May
Val Thorens is one of the most remote resorts from airports. The transfer from Geneva/Grenoble can take up to 4-5 hours due to traffic jams, especially on the serpentine from Moutiers.
Taxi from Geneva 450-550 euro, and transfer 260-350 euro; from Lyon (206 km) - 500-600 euro, transfer costs about 300 euro. The Three Valleys can also be reached from Italy: through the Frejus tunnel (3-3.5 hours from Turin). The nearest railway station is Moutiers (37 km), there is a bus from the station. It is better to reserve seats on the bus in advance, at least 48 hours in advance.
Val Thorens offers some great restaurants, including l'Oxalys, one of the best in the Alps. In addition, there are many restaurants in the resort, both themed and with local cuisine, as well as specializing in haute cuisine and fashion trends. The famous chef of the Oxalys restaurant (at the 4-star Residence L'Oxalys hotel), 27-year-old Jean Sulpice, recently received the top award from the Michelin culinary guide. The young chef studied and practiced with the stars of world gastronomy, such as Marc Veyra, Edouard Loubet, Pierre Ganer, Ferran Adrito and others, settled in Val Thorens four years ago. "He is a real culinary researcher and inventor. His unexpected cuisine is a delicate game with meat, local Savoyard fish and forgotten vegetables, such as the Jerusalem artichoke, rutabaga, squash, etc.) The chef enthusiastically studies the taste of various wild herbs, experiments with seasonal fruits and every time he prepares the most unexpected dishes in a new way in a cozy chalet, "- talking about him frequent guests of the restaurant.
Another amazing restaurant, l'Epicurien, has recently opened in the four-star residence of Village Montana. The main concept is a culinary journey across all five continents. The young chef Frederic Tarride uses his knowledge and skills of renowned teachers Alain Senderens and Alain Ducasse to offer original and exotic dishes. The menu includes foie gras with Sichuan pepper, gingerbread ice cream, Indonesian king prawns in walnut sauce. The wine list transcends French dominance with an excellent selection of wines from Argentina, South Africa, Australia and Brazil.
The 7,500 sqm sports center offers a wide range of cardio and weight training equipment, various group classes and instructor consultations. For the whole family there is an opportunity to play tennis, squash, badminton, table tennis, football, volleyball and other games, all the necessary equipment can be rented from the sports center. There is also a large aqua club with two swimming pools, saunas, jacuzzi and hammam. The beauty center at Fitz Roy's premier hotel specializes in Decleor cosmetics and offers all sorts of traditional massages and more exotic facial and body treatments. The spa at the Sherpa Hotel is powered by Maria Galland products (€60-74 for a 1h15 total massage).
The 7,500 sqm sports center offers a wide range of cardio and weight training equipment, various group classes and instructor consultations. For the whole family there is an opportunity to play tennis, squash, badminton, table tennis, football, volleyball and other games, all the necessary equipment can be rented from the sports center. There is also a large aqua club with two swimming pools, saunas, jacuzzi and hammam. The beauty center at Fitz Roy's premier hotel specializes in Decleor cosmetics and offers all sorts of traditional massages and more exotic facial and body treatments. The spa at the Sherpa Hotel is powered by Maria Galland products (€60-74 for a 1h15 total massage).
Alex
01/13/2022
We booked a Mercedes V class. The price of the trip was 400eur. The car is great, clean and new:) The driver was punctual and courteous. Thank you!
Helen
22/02/2022
Mike met us at the Geneva airport in the evening. Calmly and carefully took us to Val Thorens in 3 hours. There were child seats in the car for my daughters, and water bottles in the doors. Two weeks later, we left in the same car in the morning. I recommend this service to you!
Anne
03/07/2022
We were worried about being picked up at the airport, cause it was the first time we booked a transfer on this site. But everything was very well. The driver met us with a sign, his Whatsapp was sent to us in advance. We got to the hotel quickly and comfortably.
How to get from Geneva airport to Val Thorens?
Car: The most convenient approach involves securing a rental car or hailing a taxi, with an estimated travel duration of approximately 3-4 hours.
Train: Embark on a train journey commencing at Geneva's central train station (Gare Cornavin), destined for Moutiers station. Upon reaching Moutiers, you can transition to a taxi or bus for onward passage to Val Thorens. The entire expedition spans approximately 3-4 hours.
Bus: Some companies provide bus transfers from Geneva to Val Thorens. Travel time may vary, but it usually takes about 4-5 hours.
Private helicopter: For those fortunate enough to avail themselves of this option, a helicopter transfer from Geneva to Val Thorens offers an expedited travel experience, encompassing a mere 40 minutes.
How far is Val Thorens from Geneva airport?
Val Thorens is situated approximately 180-200 kilometers (approximately 112-124 miles) east of Geneva Airport in Switzerland, contingent upon your specific Val Thorens destination. Traveling from Geneva Airport to Val Thorens via automobile entails a journey of roughly 2.5-3.5 hours, the precise duration contingent upon road conditions and your selected route. Alternative modes of conveyance, such as train, bus, and helicopter, are also at your disposal; however, travel durations may exhibit variance predicated upon your chosen mode and itinerary.