Getting To Tignes: An Insider’s Guide

So, I’ve been based in Tignes for three winters now, and each season I’m always surprised at how many new things I discover. Usually, most ‘resort guides’ show you what’s on the surface of Tignes: the obvious bars, the noticeable runs, etc. This guide is to reveal five things that you didn’t know about Tignes. I want to say that it’s from a local’s perspective, but apparently you’re not classed as ‘local’ until the French Tabac owner replies to you in French, and I haven’t reached that stage yet…

First up I discuss ways to get to Tignes, and then the hot spots you shouldn’t miss.

How To Get To Tignes

By Air

Flying is a convenient option to get to Tignes. The nearest airports are Geneva (about 223 km), Lyon (about 223 km), and Chambéry (about 142 km). Each airport offers numerous international flights and comprehensive facilities. For instance, from Geneva, expect a transfer time of approximately 3 hours by road.

By Train

Travelling by train provides a scenic and relaxing journey. The closest train station is Bourg-Saint-Maurice, around 30 km from Tignes. High-speed services, such as the TGV, connect this station to major French cities like Paris. During winter, the Eurostar offers direct services from London to Bourg-Saint-Maurice.

By Car

Driving grants flexibility when getting to Tignes. From Geneva, follow A41, A43, and N90 to reach the resort. The journey typically takes about 3 hours, depending on traffic and weather. Ensure your vehicle is equipped for alpine conditions, especially in winter, by carrying snow chains or having winter tyres fitted.

Flying to Tignes

Flying offers one of the most efficient ways to reach Tignes. With three main airports nearby, visitors can choose the best option for their journey.

Nearest Airports

Geneva, Lyon, and Chambéry airports are the closest to Tignes. Geneva Airport (65 international routes) provides numerous flight options. Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport, around 220 km from Tignes, serves as a major hub, while Chambéry Airport, the smallest of the three, sits about 130 km away. For flexibility, Geneva and Lyon offer extensive services, but Chambéry’s proximity makes it ideal for shorter transfers.

Airport Transfers

From these airports, several transfer options exist. Coaches and private transfers operate regularly to Tignes. Buses from Geneva take roughly 3 hours, offering direct routes. For a faster alternative, private shuttles or taxis are available. Multiple companies provide shared shuttle services, which may be more cost-effective but take slightly longer. If carrying ski equipment, pre-booking transfers simplifies logistics.

Travelling by Train

Travelling by train is a scenic and comfortable way to reach Tignes. With high-speed routes and direct services, rail travel offers an efficient means of getting to this alpine resort.

Closest Train Station

The closest train station to Tignes is Bourg-Saint-Maurice, situated approximately 30 km away. This station is well-connected to major French cities, including Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, via high-speed services such as TGV. Eurostar also provides direct services from London to Bourg-Saint-Maurice during the winter season, making it extremely convenient for UK travellers.

Journey Times

Journey times vary depending on the departure city. From Paris, the high-speed TGV train takes about 4.5 hours to reach Bourg-Saint-Maurice. Trains from Lyon take roughly 3.5 hours. For travellers departing from Marseille, the travel time is around 6 hours. The Eurostar service from London to Bourg-Saint-Maurice takes about 8 hours direct. Upon arrival at Bourg-Saint-Maurice, onward travel to Tignes involves a 45-minute journey by road, either by bus, taxi, or private transfer.

Driving to Tignes

Driving to Tignes provides great flexibility and stunning alpine scenery. Whether from the UK or within Europe, it’s an adventurous way to start your trip.

From the UK

Travelling by car from the UK to Tignes involves crossing the Channel, with the Eurotunnel being a popular choice. Leaving from Folkestone, the Eurotunnel journey to Calais takes about 35 minutes. From Calais, the drive to Tignes covers 980 km, typically taking around 10-11 hours, depending on traffic and weather. Ensure your vehicle is well-prepared for the journey, carrying essential items such as snow chains and checking French road requirements, like high-vis jackets and breathalysers.

Routes and Tips

Several routes lead to Tignes, with the A40 and A43 motorways providing the most direct paths from major European cities. From Geneva, the A41 and A43 highways lead to Albertville, followed by the D902 straight to Tignes. In winter, ensure the car is equipped for alpine conditions, including snow tyres and chains. Check weather forecasts and traffic updates regularly to avoid delays.

Break up the journey by stopping at scenic spots like Annecy or Chambéry, both worth a visit. Refuelling before reaching alpine roads is prudent, as petrol stations become sparse in higher altitudes. Always carry a detailed road map and a fully charged GPS device to navigate the mountain routes effectively.

Travelling by Coach or Bus

Travelling to Tignes by coach or bus is affordable and convenient. Direct services connect major cities to this alpine destination, allowing hassle-free travel.

From UK

Several operators offer coach services from the UK to Tignes, often including ski resorts in the itinerary. Eurolines and Snow Express provide routes that depart from London Victoria Coach Station, usually on Fridays, reaching Tignes on Saturday mornings. Journey durations average 18-20 hours, including ferry crossings. Coaches are equipped with reclining seats and amenities to ensure a comfortable ride.

From Nearby Airports

Buses from nearby airports provide regular and reliable connections to Tignes. Each airport—Geneva, Lyon, and Chambéry—offers dedicated shuttle services.

• Geneva Airport: Buses to Tignes operate frequently, with journey times around 3 hours. Companies like Altibus and Ben’s Bus offer multiple daily transfers, especially during the winter season.
• Lyon Airport: Direct bus services to Tignes take about 3.5 hours. Regular transfers are available via Altibus, ensuring timely arrivals that sync with flight schedules.
• Chambéry Airport: Given its proximity, buses from Chambéry reach Tignes in approximately 2 hours. Few operators, like Altibus, cover this route, making it a quick option for travellers.

Pre-booking bus tickets is recommended, especially during peak ski seasons, to secure seats and streamline transfers.

Environmentally Friendly Travel Options

Travelling to Tignes doesn’t need to leave a large carbon footprint. Eco-conscious travellers can explore several green alternatives to conventional travel methods.

Train Travel

Opt for trains if seeking a low-emission way to reach Tignes. Train journeys often significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to flying or driving. Travellers can take the Eurostar from London to Paris and then transfer to a TGV heading to Bourg-Saint-Maurice. High-speed trains like TGV emit fewer pollutants per passenger kilometre than cars or planes. For example, a TGV journey from Paris to Bourg-Saint-Maurice emits around 17 grams of CO2 per kilometre per passenger, compared to 153 grams for a car.

Carpooling

Consider carpooling if driving remains the preferred option. Sharing rides reduces the number of vehicles on the road, cutting down on emissions. Platforms like BlaBlaCar connect drivers and passengers heading in the same direction. Carpooling not only conserves fuel but also reduces travel costs. For instance, a shared trip from Geneva to Tignes can lower emissions and expenses by effectively using each car’s capacity.

Electric Vehicles

Switch to electric vehicles (EVs) for those planning to drive. EVs offer a cleaner alternative to traditional petrol or diesel cars, emitting zero tailpipe pollutants. Charging stations are becoming more widespread, with several available along the route to Tignes. Using EVs helps lower overall carbon footprints. When driving an electric car from Calais to Tignes, plan charges using apps like Chargemap or PlugShare, ensuring seamless travel.

Coach Services

Choose coach services for cost-effective and eco-friendly travel. Coaches contribute to fewer emissions per passenger compared to cars. Companies like Snow Express and Eurolines offer comfortable journeys from the UK to Tignes with reclining seats and amenities. Coach travel emits roughly 27 grams of CO2 per kilometre per passenger, making it a greener option. For instance, taking a coach from London to Tignes not only reduces emissions but also boosts comfort and affordability.

Biking

For the truly adventurous, biking part of the journey can be an eco-friendly and health-boosting endeavour. While not practical for the entire trip, combining trains and bikes for the final leg may suit those with a passion for cycling. Electric bikes provide an extra boost, making the alpine climb more manageable. Before attempting, ensure proper preparation, including weather considerations and physical capability assessment. Riding the final stretch from Bourg-Saint-Maurice to Tignes on an e-bike can be an exhilarating and environmentally responsible way to complete the journey.

Choosing any of these methods helps ensure a more sustainable trip to Tignes, aligning eco-friendly practices with the joy of alpine adventures.

Top Things To Do In Tignes

Palafour

The first thing to know about Tignes is that Palafour, the blue run in the centre of Le Lac, means more to most people than just a run. Yes, it’s a blue and it’s good for getting your ‘ski legs’ back, but it’s also a run that can change every time you set off from the chairlift. There’s always more than one option back down and there’s forever kickers and lips appearing off the sides, making it the best run for jibbing. I know people who happily lap Palafour for hours because of the variety it holds. Without sounding over-dramatic, this is more than a run, and the reason why two of my friends have ‘I Heart P4′ tattooed on them for eternity.

Lo Terrachu

Tignes is also home to Lo Terrachu, a bar, restaurant and hotel that is right on the lake at the edge of Le Lac, just before Val Claret. To some, this may cause shivers down them as it has been run by a certain tour-operator for the past five seasons or so, becoming quite run down in the process. I have worked in the Terrachu for this tour-operator for the past two winters, so I can hand on heart say that it is now totally different. Stepping into Lo Terrachu is like stepping back through time: The Rolling Stones are playing through the speakers, the purple walls are covered with music posters from the 60s and 70s, the bedrooms have been re-done and wicker chairs, incense and eclectic furniture adorn the rooms. Wood pigeon is served in the restaurant and amazing cocktails are served in the bar, all while Hendrix looks down on you from his psychedelic poster. This is definitely one of the coolest spots in Tignes. Don’t forget to look out for Terry the black cat that was born in the building’s attic.

So. Bar

Another hidden gem in Tignes is So. Bar in Lavachet. This little bar has been run by the two fantastic hosts JP and Fairy for the past three seasons. So. Bar is, thankfully, the antithesis of the big, generic ‘student/ seasonaire’ bars that have become popular in Tignes. It’s also without a doubt the best place to go if you’re a fan of the Vino. The bar offers fantastic wine as well as wine tasting, which, with JP’s copious knowledge on wine, makes it an unbeatable bar in Tignes. They also host regular open-mic nights, as well as their infamous ‘Anti-Quiz’. With incredible tapas and chilli also available, this is one of the best bar in Tignes.

The Hidden Valley

A literal hidden gem in Tignes is the ‘Hidden Valley’ on the way down to Val D’Isere, accessible from the top of the Tommeuses lift in Tignes. Now, this is not for the absolute beginner and often comes with an avalanche risk, but it isn’t the most difficult and can be done by the majority of abilities. It’s a natural off-piste run that takes a half-pipe/gully formation with boulders either side. Once you decide to take the route there’s no going back: there’s a reason why it’s also known as ‘Piste Perdu’. You also have to be prepared to take your skis or board off to clamber down rocks and crawl through ‘tunnels’. This ‘run’ down is definitely one for feeling a sense of achievement and adventure at the end of it, particularly when you join up with the piste and see looks of confusion on people’s faces as they wonder ‘Where did they come from?’

The Chardonnay Bowl

For all those powder hounds, there’s also the Chardonnay Bowl. This is a place where the punters will resolutely not head to, or know about. It’s about a half hour walk from the Merles chairlift, but it’s a hike that’s worth it. The Bowl is a dipped face that’s marked by five couloirs that act as access points. Below the bowl, is one of the steepest slopes in Tignes, with a seventy degree gradient in places. On a strong powder day, the snow allows a controlled but ridiculously quick run into the bowl. The face soon flattens out and that’s where you can enjoy laying down fresh tracks…. In the fresh pow, as we unfortunately say around here.

Like hiking to the Chardonnay Bowl, it’s worth going ‘off piste’ in the town of Tignes, as well as on the mountain, to discover Tignes’ hidden gems. And, if you find enough of them, the French Tabac lady might just reply to you in French one day.

Conclusion

Planning your trip to Tignes can be an exciting adventure in itself. With various travel options available, you can choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer the convenience of flying, the scenic journey by train, the flexibility of driving, or the affordability of coach services, each method offers unique benefits.

For those looking to minimise their environmental impact, trains and carpooling present excellent alternatives. Remember to prepare adequately for alpine conditions, especially if you’re driving. By pre-booking transfers and considering sustainable travel options, you’ll ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to the beautiful French Alps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the closest airport to Tignes?

Chambéry Airport is the closest to Tignes, approximately 130 km away, offering the shortest transfer time. However, Geneva and Lyon airports also provide good alternatives with more flight options.

How can I get to Tignes quickly?

Flying to Geneva Airport is recommended for international visitors. A transfer from Geneva takes about 3 hours by road. Alternatively, hiring a car is a flexible option.

Is Tignes a luxury destination?

Tignes offers a range of accommodation, predominantly apartments, with an increasing number of luxury hotels, making it an attractive option for upmarket visitors.

How long is the transfer from Geneva Airport to Tignes?

The road transfer from Geneva Airport to Tignes takes approximately 3 hours. Private shuttles, buses, and taxis are available for this route.

What is the most scenic way to travel to Tignes?

Travelling by train to Bourg-Saint-Maurice is a scenic option, offering beautiful views of the French Alps. The journey from Paris takes about 4.5 hours on the TGV, followed by a 45-minute road transfer to Tignes.

How far is Tignes from the nearest train station?

The nearest train station to Tignes is Bourg-Saint-Maurice, located about 30 km away. The onward journey to Tignes from this station takes around 45 minutes by road.

How long is the drive from Geneva to Tignes?

Driving from Geneva to Tignes takes roughly 3 hours. Ensure your vehicle is prepared for alpine conditions, especially during winter.

Are there buses from the UK to Tignes?

Yes, coach services such as Eurolines and Snow Express operate from the UK to Tignes, with travel times averaging 18-20 hours from London Victoria Coach Station.

Is train travel to Tignes environmentally friendly?

Yes, train travel is a low-emission option. TGV trains emit significantly less CO2 compared to cars or planes, making it a sustainable choice.

Are electric vehicle (EV) charging stations available en route to Tignes?

Yes, there are EV charging stations available along the route to Tignes, supporting environmentally friendly travel.

Written by Loulou Bayliss