Planning a company retreat has never been more important. After years of hybrid and remote working, businesses are increasingly realising that in-person connections fuel collaboration, strengthen workplace culture, and boost morale.
While city conferences and country house hotels remain popular choices, there’s a growing appetite for something a little different – something that combines adventure, luxury, and genuine team bonding. Enter the corporate ski break.
For companies seeking a memorable destination, a ski holiday in Val Thorens ticks every box. This high-altitude French resort is known as one of the best in Europe, offering not only world-class skiing but also excellent facilities for groups, modern accommodation, and plenty of après-ski opportunities. Whether you’re organising a small leadership offsite or a larger team incentive trip, Val Thorens stands out as a destination that blends business goals with unforgettable experiences.
The Slopes and Shared Adventures
One of the biggest benefits of a team ski break is the chance to share exhilarating experiences. Val Thorens, as the highest ski resort in Europe, offers snow-sure conditions from November through May. This reliability makes planning a winter retreat far less stressful – you can be confident that the slopes will be ready when your team arrives.
The resort is part of the famous Three Valleys ski area, which means access to over 600 kilometres of interconnected pistes. This variety is ideal for corporate groups because not everyone skis at the same level. Beginners can take advantage of excellent ski schools, while experienced skiers and snowboarders will find plenty of challenging runs to test their skills. The range of options ensures that every team member can enjoy themselves without feeling left out.
Skiing itself is a natural team-building activity. From encouraging a colleague on their first run to celebrating together at the bottom of a black slope, the slopes offer opportunities to support, motivate, and bond. For non-skiers, Val Thorens also provides alternative winter activities such as snowshoeing, tobogganing, or even zip-lining across the valley. These adventures are fantastic ways to encourage teamwork and ensure inclusivity for all participants.
Accommodation and Productive Spaces
While the skiing is a major draw, corporate retreats must also strike the right balance between leisure and business. Val Thorens has developed an impressive infrastructure that caters not only to holidaymakers but also to professional groups.
Many of the resort’s chalets and hotels are designed with corporate guests in mind, offering flexible meeting spaces, breakout rooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi. This means it’s easy to schedule strategy sessions, workshops, or presentations during the day, before heading out to enjoy the mountains. The compact nature of the resort also makes logistics straightforward – accommodation, meeting venues, and ski lifts are all within walking distance, which saves time and ensures a stress-free experience for organisers and participants alike.
For larger groups, modern hotels such as Hotel Pashmina or Fahrenheit Seven provide dedicated conference facilities alongside comfortable rooms and wellness centres. For smaller executive teams, private chalets offer both privacy and a sense of exclusivity, with staff on hand to prepare meals and ensure everything runs smoothly.
The setting itself inspires productivity. There’s something about discussing new business ideas against the backdrop of snow-covered peaks that encourages creative thinking. Many companies report that the change of scenery helps colleagues to step out of routine mindsets, leading to fresh perspectives and innovative problem-solving.
Après-Ski and Networking
Of course, no ski retreat would be complete without après-ski, and Val Thorens is renowned for its lively yet sophisticated scene. After a day on the slopes, teams can come together in an informal setting, sharing stories over mulled wine or relaxing in a spa. These moments are often where the real connections are forged – away from laptops and meeting agendas.
For something memorable, groups can book a private dining experience at one of the resort’s excellent restaurants, many of which focus on fine Savoyard cuisine. From cheese fondues to Michelin-starred menus, there’s a wide range of options to suit different budgets and tastes. Dining together in a relaxed environment is a fantastic way to strengthen team bonds and reward hard work.
If your team enjoys a livelier atmosphere, Val Thorens offers several famous après-ski venues, such as La Folie Douce, known for its open-air parties with live DJs. These experiences provide the perfect balance of fun and camaraderie. On the other hand, those seeking a calmer evening can enjoy a wellness session in the resort’s spas, complete with saunas, hot tubs, and mountain views – ideal for unwinding and recharging.
Crucially, these social moments help foster stronger workplace relationships. Staff who might rarely interact in the office can connect on a more personal level, which often translates to improved collaboration back at work. The relaxed yet energising environment of a ski retreat creates a sense of shared achievement and lasting memories that can’t be replicated in a boardroom.
When planning a corporate retreat, the destination matters. It needs to be practical, inclusive, and inspiring. Val Thorens delivers on all counts. With its snow-sure slopes, excellent range of activities, versatile accommodation, and vibrant après-ski scene, it offers the perfect blend of business and leisure.
A team trip here is not just about skiing – it’s about creating shared experiences that bring colleagues closer together. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a ski lesson, brainstorming in a chalet meeting room, or celebrating a successful quarter with a glass of champagne overlooking the mountains, the benefits extend far beyond the holiday itself.