A historic event of the men's Alpine Ski World Cup, the Critérium de la Première Neige brings the world's elite to the legendary Face de Bellevarde in Val d'Isère every year.
For its 71st edition, the Critérium offers two men's World Cup races on the Face de Bellevarde: a giant slalom on Saturday and a slalom on Sunday, each raced in two runs (first run at 9.30am, second at 1pm according to the event's usual schedule).
This stage is one of the most watched on the men's World Cup calendar, as the Face de Bellevarde is considered one of the most technical and spectacular courses on the circuit, with a finish right in Val d'Isère village.
One of the oldest events on the circuit, first held in 1955, the Critérium de la Première Neige owes its reputation to the slope of the Face de Bellevarde, known for its steepness and changes of camber that forgive no mistake in line for the fastest skiers on the circuit.
The proximity of the piste to the village is a large part of the event's appeal for spectators: unlike other World Cup venues isolated at altitude, the finish is a few minutes' walk from the shops and restaurants of central Val d'Isère.
The crowds around this event go well beyond local sports fans, with international visitors travelling specifically to follow the races, especially for the full weekend.
From Courchevel, a transfer for this stage is generally planned as a day trip rather than a complete change of accommodation, as the drive between the two resorts is perfectly reasonable within a day.
How to organise your transport for this event
- 1The two days of competition bring large crowds to Val d'Isère: book your transfer in advance for that specific weekend.
- 2The finish of the piste is right in the village, making it easy to walk there once your chauffeur has dropped you off.
Our services for this event
Plan your transport for this event: book online or request a quote, depending on the service.
