For 60 years, UCPA has provided all-inclusive, sustainable, and community-focused ski holidays. Katy Dartford takes a look at how they are continuing to thrive.

As I arrived in Val Thorens in early December it felt like I was stepping into another world.

Driving in from the still autumnal Arve Valley the landscape quickly shifted from gold to monochrome. At 2300m above sea level it was snowing and the air buzzed with the excitement of the start of a new ski season.

But this wasn’t just any opening weekend – it marked the start of two special anniversaries. In 2024/25 the UCPA, the French non-profit that has introduced millions to outdoor sports, is celebrating 60 years and Action Outdoors, its UK partner, is marking 20 years of bringing the UCPA spirit to British skiers and snowboarders.

It felt like a privilege to be on the slopes before many other resorts had opened, experiencing UCPA’s unique offering in Europe’s highest ski resorts – one of the world’s most celebrated snowsport destinations. Located at the heart of Val Thorens, the UCPA centre was bustling with skiers from France and beyond. I obviously wasn’t the only person who thought it was a good idea to come here now.  

With its reliable snow, 170km of pistes with 3 new runs for 2024-25, Val Thorens is quite a draw for skiers and snowboarders of all levels at this time of year. As I explored the resort, I wanted to understand how UCPA had thrived for six decades, especially in an industry where rising costs, shifting demographics, and climate challenges have forced many similar organisations to close.

What is the UCPA?

The UCPA, founded in 1964, was born out of a national effort to improve access to outdoor sports in France. Kevin Lecot, a team leader at UCPA Flaine, explains: “The UCPA was created after France did really badly at the Olympic Games and came home without medals. The government decided to create the UCPA to enable thousands of young people to try or improve at lots of different sports.”

Originally aimed at 18- to 40-year-olds, UCPA has since expanded its offerings, welcoming guests up to the age of 55 with specific packages tailored for older adventurers. This evolution reflects the organisation’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

Today, UCPA is France’s second-largest ski school and operates in many of the country’s top ski resorts, including Val Thorens. Its all-inclusive model – covering accommodation, meals, ski passes, equipment rental, and lessons – has made skiing accessible to those who might otherwise find it financially out of reach.

Kevin highlights the community spirit that sets UCPA apart: “A lot of people come alone and find friends because, with a sport, it’s easier to meet people and speak with them at the bar and restaurant afterwards. It creates a good cohesion.”

The UCPA Val Thorens Experience

The UCPA Val Thorens centre is located right on the Moraine and Plein Sud slopes, allowing you to ski in and out. With shared rooms, a lively bar and buffet restaurant, it’s designed for  socialising and making new friends.

I admit, I had doubts about sharing a bunk room with strangers. It’s definitely not for everyone, but I found the shared accommodation to be a big part of the experience. “The communal aspect is what makes UCPA special,” said David Morel, executive chef at the UCPA in Val Thorens. “You come here not just to ski but to meet people. It’s lively, it’s social and creates memories you wouldn’t get elsewhere.”

I was also worried it might have a rowdy club 18-30s or holiday camp feel, complete with school canteen dinners. But I was again pleasantly surprised.

The buffet at UCPA is a highlight, with creamy gratins, hearty stews and fresh salads. The chefs take pride in their work and there’s a friendly competition to impress. Over a lunch of tartiflette and charcuterie, David told me how food plays a big part of the UCPA experience: “The buffet isn’t just for refuelling – it’s a space where people share stories, make connections and feel part of something bigger.”

While the buffet tempted me to sample everything, we are reminded to avoid overloading our plates and throwing food away, and once you’ve eaten you’re expected to clean your table up after your meal. While I usually avoid eating too much whilst skiing, I found the lunch breaks a good opportunity to rejuvenate weary legs after the morning, leaving me ready for another few hours of afternoon skiing.

In the evenings, the UCPA centre is just as lively with quizzes, karaoke and discos. The bar is the heart of après-ski but if you want more nightlife you can head into Val Thorens where there are chill bars and party clubs.

A Resort Like No Other

Val Thorens consistently ranks among the world’s best ski resorts for its snow reliability and cutting-edge lifts. As part of the Three Valleys ski area you can access 600km of pistes suitable for all levels.

But what if you can’t afford a catered chalet or you travel solo? This is where UCPA shines. By keeping costs low and focusing on shared experiences it means skiing is accessible to students, solo travellers and couples.

Meeting the modern challenge

At a time when skiing is increasingly being seen as an elitist sport, the UCPA’s model is more relevant than ever. By offering high quality skiing at affordable prices it’s a gateway for people to discover the mountains.

David says: “We’re getting more and more newcomers. That’s what makes this job so cool – it’s not just about feeding people or running a centre; it’s about introducing them to the mountains and watching them fall in love with it.”

This ethos explains why the UCPA is thriving as costs and climate change are reshaping the ski industry. By focusing on community, sustainability and affordability the UCPA is helping to ensure that skiing remains within reach for everyone.

Food, Fun, and Friends

Over the weekend I discovered what the UCPA does best – creating a sense of belonging. Whether it’s sharing stories over a meal or après-ski or setting up WhatsApp groups to plan future trips, the bonding is real.

As the snow fell thick and fast on my last ski day, my legs were put to the test by whiteout conditions. But knowing I’d be back to a warm meal (spag bol) and friendly faces at the UCPA centre made it worth it.

If you’re thinking of a ski trip to Val Thorens or any French Alps locations, the UCPA centres are a great way to do it and meet like-minded people. For 60 years it’s has been opening up the mountains for all and it shows no signs of stopping.

• For more information, visit action-outdoors.co.uk

Categories: France, Holiday Offers, News, Resort News & Reports

Tags: Action Outdoors, UCPA, Val Thorens