Tignes was originally made up of only two villages, Tignes and Brevieres. Things started changing in the 1920’s when rumours began spreading that the government was planning on flooding the old town of Tignes as a part of their hydro-electric power scheme.

The plan was to build a dam that was made to generate power for up to 10% of France! Although this part of the plan never came true, in 1952 the dam was built and the “Lac du Chevril” was made.

Nevertheless, the dam still stands as one of the tallest in Europe at a height of 180m (about the length of two football pitches) with a huge mural of Hercules painted by Jean-Marie Pierret for the 1992 Winter Olympic Games.

The dam now serves a bridge for both pedestrians and vehicles to connect the relocated village of Tignes and Brevieres, as well as a backup generator in case of a power shortage during the winter season. Every 10 years, the lake is drained for maintenance and the old buildings are revealed for an eerie view of the lost city.

Brevieres became seeming more popular in the 1970’s when the first lift was built to connect the village to the one of the largest ski areas in France known as L’Espace Killy, named after the French Olympic medallist, Jean Claude Killy. This connection opened up the slopes to the popular Val d’Isere and the other 4 villages that make up Tignes.

Not only is “Brev”, as it is known by the locals, the ideal resort for both beginner and advance skiers and boarders, it also has an ample amount of off the slope activities for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Care to get in touch with the wilderness? Try strapping on some snowshoes and discover the alpine forest trails on foot, weaving in and out of trees and beautiful lakes.

The best time for this is the spring, where if you are lucky you might be able to capture a glimpse of a chamois, or marmot hidden in the snow.

Night sledging is a great way to spend time with the big and small kids in your group. They have even recently added a toboggan run from the top of the Palfour lift in Tignes Le Lac.

If you are looking for something a bit more intense, you can go on a guided ice climbing adventure on the frozen waterfalls or run off of the side of a mountain for a paragliding experience you won’t forget!

Ask your chalet manager for more information on any of these activities, and he or she will be more than happy to book them for you.

Because Brevieres is situated on the far end of the ski region, this not only makes your wallet happy, but also doesn’t over populate the slopes. I have put together my own personal list of TOP 5 SKI RUNS IN TIGNES to ensure that you get the best insiders tips on the slopes.

In more recent years, Brevieres has grown in the public eye with the help of one man. It’s no surprise that one of the most challenging off-piste black slopes in resort is named after the showman and adrenaline junkie, Guerlain Chicherit who has been crowned as a Tignes celebrity.

Winning a world ski championship in 1999 and famous for his daredevil stunts like completing the first ever back flip in a Mini, Guerlain’s quirky charm is very much present in his chalets. He has currently designed and built 8 stunning chalets in Brevieres thus far, all with their own personal eccentric vibe.

L’Armailly is by far the most popular restaurant in Brevieres. I highly suggest a cheeky lunchtime vin chaud on their sun-trapped terrace or ask your chalet manager to book in advance for a memorable dinner. The portion sizes are generous, as well as their menu selection. Close your eyes and picture yourself in the cosy Savoyard ambiance while sipping a bold French wine accompanied by the aroma of fine local cheese and sink your teeth into mouth-watering meat dishes like the veal or lamb. Need I say more?

Le Bachal is a favourable restaurant for the family tucked away in the centre of town. Still inspired by the wonderful French “carte de jour”, these dishes come at a more modest price. The menu includes French classics like raclette and duck confit, as well as having a great selection of wines.

Le Moose is an English owned bar with a lot going on! If theme nights and live music is your forte, then this is the place to be. During the day, the atmosphere is more of a chilled-out vibe where you can order a delicious burger or falafel wrap and enjoy the simple things in life. But as the evening approaches, doors open late for drinks that might even tempt you to get up on the tables to dance and sing the night away.

The Boot Room is the new après bar run by the same group of young, vibrant friends that own Le Moose bar. They also cater delicious meals until 2pm like their legendary curry or fall off the bone ribs. They also have multiple big screens to make sure you never miss those big games. Be sure to check out their Facebook page for upcoming events such as live DJs, live football on TV, competitions, and many more!