Val d'Isere has rich tradition and changeable weather

Val d'Isere has rich tradition and changeable weather Val d'Isere, France  - Val d'Isere, venue for the February 2- 15 alpine ski world championships, has a rich skiing tradition and has produced some of the biggest names in the sport.

The local sports club prides itself on being the most titled ski club in the world, with the legendary Jean-Claude Killy and the Goitschel sisters Christine and Marielle among its luminaries.

"Val d'Isere adores skiing and skiing adores Val d'Isere," the venue claims on its website.

Located at an altitude of 1,850 metres at the far end of the Tarentaise valley in Savoy, the resort is known for the Espace Killy ski region, named after the triple gold medallist at the 1968 Olympic six-time world champion.

Despite much in the way of new construction the venue, which was scene of alpine competition at the 1992 Albertville winter Games, has retained its charm.

The venue is framed by the spectacular Solaise and Bellevarde mountains, with the two slopes - the women on the Solaise and the men on the Bellevarde - meeting at the joint finishing line.

The steep Bellevarde piste, designed for the 1992 Albertville Olympics and almost three kilometres long, is particular demanding.

The organizers are offering free entry to lure some 20,000 fans each race day, and with a record participation of 68 countries hopes to create a memorable atmosphere.

Their one concern will be the unpredictable weather conditions in the Savoy Alps, with fog and wind often a problem. (dpa)

General: 
Regions: