Colors of Val d Isere - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

The city with the beautiful name of Val d'Isere attracts travelers with its proximity to the most important natural landmark of France - the Alps. Local people themselves can be compared to this mountain range - proud, persistent, always keep their word and ready to whomever they can. Being true patriots, they prefer tourists to communicate with them in their native French. International English here is not appreciated here - even if their language is not ideal in the mouth of a traveler, it is still better to make a good impression with a conversation in French.

Another distinctive quality of the locals is punctuality. And the same is required from others, so you should never be late for a meeting. Local people are straightforward, they have a specific approach to any business, a sort of "business acumen". They always speak directly about something going wrong and leave twisting around to those who are used to all these things. You should not feel offended by this - at least you can be sure they are telling the truth. At the same time, they don't like arguing, always trying to maintain a neutral or liberal position. Of course, if it's not about their beloved France, which is undoubtedly the best country to live in, and Val d'Isere - the best place ever created by God.

The birthplace of the most famous skier Jean-Claude Killy (by the way, after whom the valley itself is named) is a great place for active recreation. And the fact is that a lot of sports festivals take place here. One of them is BMW Vald'isère Wintergolf Cup that usually falls at the end of March. The 3-day competitive festival is dedicated to a winter variant of the sport beloved by all aristocrats. A prize for the win in this competition would be a tasty morsel for many winter golf players, but it's also nice to watch and support your "favorites". Copyright www.orangesmile.com

In early April, the ski resort becomes even sportier, although it seems to be impossible. The thing is that this is time for opening Ski Touring Village. The festival lasts for 3 days, during which you can rent ski equipment for free - perhaps, Val-d'Isere becomes a real paradise for alpine ski fans. And if along with that you go on interesting tours widely offered to travelers, such a saturated holiday will surely be remembered for a long time. However, it is worthwhile to take care of registration in advance since the offer is limited.

In the middle of April, cinema and skiing enthusiasts gather in Val-d'Isere on the occasion of Festival International du Film Aventure et Découverte. The event annually attracts over 8,000 spectators wishing to watch movies dedicated to skiing. By the way, the entrance is completely free, which turns into an attractive plus for tourists visiting Jean-Claude Killy's hometown during this time. The event is also attended by eminent athletes and researchers who have devoted their lives to sports. The event lasts for 4 days.

Another interesting sports festival dedicated to yoga. It takes place at the end of April in Center des Congrés Henri Oreiller Val d'Isère and in the open air. This is 3 days, during which you can enjoy yoga, good music, and, of course, get a great charge of positive energy. Besides classical yoga, there are also martial arts, fitness, acroyoga, meditation classes, conferences are held, a fair and arctic Pop-Up cafe open. Where else could you enjoy all this but in a place where clean air gives the most pleasant feelings and sensations, and none of this is related to problems from the outside world that have remained somewhere far away? Of course, the right answer is here in the French Alps.

Those who can not live without a bike will appreciate such a festival as L'Iserane held at the end of June. During this time you can test your skills on the highest mountain pass in Europe, namely at an altitude of 2770 (this is the elevation of Col de l'Iseran) - the test is really for the strongest. It is also worth noting that this place is truly historic, so local residents never fail to mention this. Only cyclists can be seen here at this time - the pass is reserved especially for them, and the road D902 running from Val d'Isère to Bonneval-sur-Arc is closed. It should be taken into account by those who are planning to go in this direction in the late June.

And motorcyclists gather at Rallye Des Chamois, another event with a rich history held at the same time, just after the previous event. A real gift for those who've decided to attend the event will be a concert of a famous rock band - the festival's organizers try to invite popular bands to entertain visitors and cheer up bikers. Motorcyclists can also try their hand at conquering the highest pass in the whole of Europe. Well, all that spectators can do is to enjoy such a magnificent spectacle. Besides that, this is a great event for camping enthusiasts.

But not only sports festivals take place here. Thus, Classicaval, the festival of classical music, is very attractive for tourists wishing to spend a good time in the ski resort while enjoying quality classical music. This can be done at the end of January. The program includes performing classical works, and its traditional venue is St. Bernard Cathedral. Visiting it as participants is a great honor for musicians. Needless to say, these are always the most talented and eminent performers, conductors, and orchestras.

The end of the year is marked by holding St. Sylvester's Night - that's how the new New Year is celebrated here. For this period, Val d'Isere turns into a real Christmas village with its unique color. This night is associated with a local legend saying that St. Sylvester has prevented Armageddon in the VI century, having caught the most dangerous monster - Leviathan. That's what people celebrate here. It can be quite problematic to find a quiet place during this time - music plays and fun reigns everywhere, you can hear a noise and watch theatrical performances, and people have fun like their lives depended on it. In addition, here you can try traditional treats - chocolate, mulled wine. Of course, the culmination of the holiday is the fireworks.