1. La Chavanette, AKA the ‘Swiss Wall’, Avoriaz
Upon arrival to the piste entrance you are quickly warned by the “For Experts Only” sign, of the challenges that await you! La Chavanette, also named the Swiss wall is considered to have one of the quickest descents. The first part consists of turns that quickly draw you into the run, soon after you encounter “the wall”, a 200m wide slope. The most challenging aspects come alive with a change in snow conditions, the wall is prone to icy conditions which immediately steps up the game of even the most advanced skiers.
2. The Champagne Run, Alpe d’Huez
This trying black run begins at an impressive 3330m at the top of Pic Blanc and drops to 2230m. Recommended for experience skiers only who can handle the endurance and speed of the particularly long run covering over 12km. The final destination is the village L’Enversin d’Oz in the skiing area of Vaujan, by the end of the Champagne run even the fittest will feel their body has been pushed to the limit.
3. Grand Couloir, Courchevel
Considered to be one of the best black ski runs in the Three Valleys. Setting off can be intimidating, as soon as you leave the cable car station the narrow track between rocks begins and real concentration is needed, once past this tricky start the run opens up and the decent really begins.
4. Grande Motte, Tignes
After reaching the top of the glacier at 3456m by cable car, prepare for a drop of over 1400m which will leave you at the Val Claret train station. It is important to pay attention to your breathing throughout the descent since an especially challenging aspect of this run is the high altitude which can lead to exhaustion.
5. OK, Val d’Isère
To reach OK either take the Olympique gondola from Val d’Isere or the Funival funicular rom La Daille. This famous run is the well-known training ground for professionals who participate in the Ski World Championships. That being said when there are good snow conditions this run is very manageable, you only need to watch out for other skiers and a few icy patches towards the lower end of the run. The terrain at the beginning is steep, it is best to avid skiing directly downhill on such parts, the run then continues into a long schuss and ends with a more technical track. Leading you to the river bridge in La Daille.
