Les Coches, Paradiski

Of the eleven 'villages' that constitute La Plagne, the lower-lying Les Coches (1450m) is one of the more attractive. Set in wooded terrain, it feels more like a traditional Alpine village, certainly more so than its monolithic brothers Plagne Centre and Plagne Bellecote. It benefits from being linked to the La Plagne domain by lift but not road, with its broad, boulevard pistes ideal for beginners and intermediates alike. There is scope for the advanced skier, particularly off-piste, while the new park at Plagne Soleil will please boarders wanting to improve their technique. There is also the Bellecote glacier at 3250m, so skiing is guaranteed in winter and summer. The views at the top are stunning.

Unfortunately, Les Coches suffers the same off-snow fate as the other 'villages' in La Plagne, with a lack of activities and decent nightlife. There are a few restaurants and shops, but nothing of true gastronomic excellence. Overall, Les Coches is a quiet, pretty village, tastefully built and with instant access to the La Plagne domain. Not great in the evenings, like the rest of the resort, but at least it looks authentic and not like a cruise-liner stuck up a mountain (see Aime La Plagne and Plagne Centre).