Pierre and Vacances Val Disere Balcons Bellevarde

Everything was so convenient for our family of three in La Daille, Val d'Isère. The bubble lift and train were just across the road, and regular buses made trips into the main town simple. There was a shop, bar, and takeaway pizza place nearby, plus a ski shop on site, so we didn't have to lug our gear around. Of the three apartments we booked, ours was the smallest, but it had everything we needed and was more than big enough. We'd definitely come back.

The team were welcoming and friendly, and their daily bakery order service was a lovely touch. The baguettes were delicious. I also appreciated the little cleaning kit with dishwasher tablets, cloths, washing-up liquid, and a sponge. It's useful and helps cut down on waste. The location made getting around easy. Buses leave from right outside every five minutes, the ski hire shop is next door, and the gondola and funicular are across the road. A couple of things could be better: the walls, especially in the bathrooms, need a wipe, and the extractor fan blows right at you while you're cooking on the hob. Otherwise, it was a perfect stay. One separate tip: the Spar in the commercial centre is shockingly expensive. We paid nearly €200 for sandwich fillings, snacks, and ingredients for four very basic meals. I'd shop in Bourg down the valley, or before arriving at the resort.

I was disappointed and will look at the many other places nearby next time. The room felt too small even with just two of us, and the main bed being a sofa bed took up space. The bunk bed in the entrance hall was cold. Getting in and out was a struggle, with narrow, steep, slippery stairs to climb carrying luggage and ski gear each day. This definitely isn't ski-in ski-out. Reception also closes from 12 to 4, which makes storing luggage difficult because you can't get to it while they're closed. We lost a key, which was our fault, and I understand there's a fee, but €80 is very expensive.

We had a great stay at balcons de Bellevarde. The apartment was spacious and well located.