Avoriaz vs Val d’Isère

The height of the mountain is the difference in height between the lowest and highest point. Tall mountains can offer longer pistes, better views, and often better snowfall.

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A nearby airport is ideal, as journeying by car or bus through mountainous areas can take longer than on flat terrain.

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The summit is higher above sea level. This means the mountain can have lots of snow, even in springtime.

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Source: city's official website, 2019.

The level of the base of the mountain above sea level.

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The resort has played host to the winter olympics. This means it is likely to have a range of professional slopes, other winter sports, and finally, good facilities and well developed transport links.

The total number of ski slopes available at the resort.

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The size of area available for skiers to enjoy on the mountain as measured in kilometres.

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In resorts which allow off piste-skiing, you can ski anywhere which is great for adventurous types. However, there are hazards such cliff edges, avalanches or simply getting lost and suffering exhaustion.

Ski trail difficulty is measured in "percent slope", a system in which a 100% slope equals a 45-degree angle. Medium difficulty trails (marked with a blue square) have a slope gradient between 25% and 40%. These trails are ideal for regular skiers.

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Ski trail difficulty is measured in "percent slope", a system in which a 100% slope equals a 45-degree angle. High-difficulty trails (marked with a black diamond) have a slope gradient of more than 40%; such trails are designed for experienced skiers who enjoy a good challenge.

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Cross-country skiing is an Olympic sport that provides great exercise for both the upper and lower body. Resorts that keep the cross-country skiing trails open for the general public attract professional and casual skiers.

More restaurants and bars can indicate a lively nightlife, as well as offering visitors more choice.

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Rather than having to trek back to the base of the mountain, it is a lot more convenient to have restaurants and bars on the slopes.

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At the ice rink you can get your skates on and try your hand at a different winter sport.

Ice climbing is a great sport for adrenalin seekers. It entails climbing frozen cliff edges/waterfalls using tools such as ice axes in order to grip the surface.

A snowmobile tour is a great way to cover large distances in a short time. After lots of physically demanding activities, it can be good way to sit back and let the motor do the work.

This is a long track, usually made of concrete covered in ice. They are used for bobsledding, and some can be used for other sports such as luge and skeleton.

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With more hostels and hotels at the resort you have a range to choose from.

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Bigger number of kindergartens makes it easier to combine career opportunities with bringing up a child. Source: city's official stats, 2019.

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Camping can offer a cheaper alternative to hotels or B&B’s, and can provide a fun outdoors experience - although it might not be ideal in winter!

Five star hotels at the resort can indicate prestige. It can provide luxurious accommodation to those wanting to spend a bit more.

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A chalet is a type of house commonly found in ski resorts. Renting your own chalet can be fun and can often work out cheaper than staying in a hotel.

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Average snowfall in the month of December.

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Average snowfall in the month of March.

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Average snowfall in the month of April.

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Average snowfall in the month of January.

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Average snowfall in the month of February.

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