Visiting Val Thorens in mid Jan 2011 - mixed ability group - several have expressed interest in touring / off piste - does any one have any recommendations about a local guide or guiding organization?

Have you considered Prosneige?

http://www.prosneige.fr/english.php

I’ve skied with Philippe and he seems to really know what he’s doing. They are more on the instructional side but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but obviously they shouldn’t be tackling glaciated terrain of which there is some around Val Thorens such as the Gebroulaz.

I would definitely suggest using a high mountain that can take you on the glaciers in the area. Some really nice days tours around there with good skinning to ski ratio. Have the name and number of a guide I use who is based in Courchevel (though I am sure would travel!). He is french, speaks excellent english, is good company etc. and would recommend him if you don’t come up with anyone in resort.

Simon Christie, who posts on this forum on occasion, is also based in the 3Vs

http://www.offpisteskiing.com/