Tignes is a high resort and is a large chunk of the Espace Killy group of which Val d'Isere is the other major resort. Because of its height, Tignes is about as snow safe as it gets, especially considering its got a great big glacier to play on just in case. Once upon a time it was possible to ski all ear round at Tignes, but unfortunately due to global warming, it is now only open for 10 months of the year.

Although, there is not a vast amount of terrain for beginners, there is more than enough and there are even 5 lifts at the base of the mountain which learners can use for free. The area beside the village and the Millonex chair is absolutely ideal for first turners and the “Swatch” park at Tignes is brilliant and is surely one of the best in France.

There are multiple lines of jumps from small to large and also a really good superpipe and boardercross. I thought that the jumps were very well built as all had very long landings and good transitions. Really a perfect environment to learn new tricks. The park is located at the Col du Palet at a high altitude to ensure great conditions. In the summer the park moves onto the Grand Motte glacier where the features remain a spiffing standard and a great deal of fun.

Intermediates will enjoy the massive number of pisted runs and comfortable lifts which allow exploration of both Tignes and Val d'Isere; believe me though, there's no way you'll see it all in a weeklong holiday...

For advanced skiers there is no doubt that Tignes is one of the best resorts in France. There is so much brilliant lift accessed steep stuff that you would struggle not to find good lines here. One of my personal favourite runs was accessed from the Col des Ves chairlift and goes by the name of Guerlain Chicherit (named after the particularly radical French extreme skier). The run passes over some steep rolling terrain on which there is a never ending array of windlips to boost off and cliffs to drop.

From a season goers perspective I would say that Tignes should definitely be in the shortlist because it has the volume of terrain necessary to keep you busy throughout the year and also the scene to keep you enthusiastic. It should also be in the shortlist for your weeklong ski holiday because it has something for every group and is as safe snow-wise as it gets.