Risoul has grown in popularity over the past two decades and is now one of the few resorts which attracts most of the major international tour operators. Although the resort has few distinguishing features it is invariably described as, very pleasant for a purpose-built centre whilst the large Foret Blanche ski area of which it is a part is the largest doorstep skiing area in the Southern Alps. The idea to build a ski resort here dates back to the mid 1940s when the team responsible for envisaging the Espace Killy and the Trois Vallees looked at the area. However, work on Risoul did not start until 1970. The skiing, which is linked to the larger and older and `very French` resort of Vars, takes place in sunny bowls, with most of the runs ultimately returning to the resort base, so it`s hard to get lost. Pistes are usually quiet with lift queues a rarity, unlike the sun, which shines 320 days a year. Risoul is located 300km (187 miles) north of the Mediterranean city of Nice and within the Queyras Regional Park, an area of great scenic beauty. The resort has been sympathetically designed using local larch wood and the pink stone of Guillestre region.
Apres Ski
Lively and informal with a number of popular bars to choose from • The Yeti with varieties of Dutch beers, La Place, La Licorne, Le Cherine and The Morgan nightclub.
Eating Out
Very reasonably priced and lots of choice • Pizzas from €7.6 • 3-course meal from €15 • Cheese or meat fondue from €20 including wine and dessert • L'Assiette Gourmande for excellent French cuisine and Le Cherine. Or why not try La Tradideria, La Dalle en Pente and La Marmitte
Activities
Outdoor ice-skating rink in Risoul and Vars • 35Kms of Snowshoe and walking trails • Skidoo rides • Cinema
Other Amenities
• Shops • Games hall • Bank • 45 mins by car or bus to the nearby historic town of Briancon with its medieval fortress and modern sports centres with top class ice hockey matches.
calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras
