France is one of the highest-rated ski destinations in the world thanks to its family-friendly resorts and charming Alpine villages. Whether a beginner or a seasoned veteran, you'll find resorts catering to your skill level and interests.
If you're planning a ski getaway but unsure which country to visit, check out our top reasons for picking France.
Unparalleled Variety of Ski Resorts
France has 249 ski resorts, from the vast interconnected Three Valleys and Paradiski to smaller, low-key destinations like Isola 2000. The Three Valleys encompasses 370 miles of runs across seven resorts, including the lofty Val Thorens at 2,300m and Courchevel and Meribel with its catered chalets.
At French ski resorts, you can enjoy experiences for families, partners, groups of friends, or solo travellers. Foodies love Megève for its Michelin-starred restaurants, La Dame de Pic, La Table de l’Alpaga, ad Flocons de Sel. The resort also boasts excellent skiing, with 250 miles of runs in the "Little Switzerland of the Alps".
World-Class Skiing and Snow Conditions
With high-altitude resorts like Val Thorens at 2,300m and Tignes at 2,100m, you're guaranteed snow cover throughout the winter ski season. French resorts are known for their extensive and well-maintained piste networks, with modern ski lifts to take you up to the slopes while you enjoy the view.
Les Arcs, alongside being a top skiing destination, is perfect for trying out snowboarding. It was one of the first to embrace the sport in the early 1980s and features easy slopes for beginners, and tree runs with excellent off-piste areas once you get more comfortable.
Excellent Accessibility and Travel Options
The convenience of travel from the UK to French ski resorts also plays a major role in their popularity with Brits. Most UK airports offer direct flights to airports in Geneva, Lyon, and Grenoble, and theEurostar takes you straight into Paris with trains across the country.
All of your passport checks are in the UK, so once you're headed for Albertville or Bourg-Saint-Maurice, you can jump straight off the train to catch a coach to whisk you to your resort.
Apres-Ski and Cultural Experiences
Apres-ski is one of the most celebrated parts of the French skiing experience. At Val d'Isère, you are spoilt for choice, with award-winning gourmet French and international cuisines at L'atelie d'Edmond and dancing through the night at Folie Douce and La Fruitiere.
For those seeking a high-altitude experience, Paradiski's lively apres-ski and vast ski area make finding quality Arc 2000 ski holidays easy. La Bergeri kicks off tunes and a great atmosphere from 3 pm every day, making it the go-to destination before heading out to Le Bonnet to enjoy live DJ sets and the party atmosphere.
Family-Friendly Facilities and Activities
Families are spoilt for choice in French resorts, with most including ski schools, childcare facilities, and dedicated kid's play areas. At Meribel, the Piste des Inuits and Yeti Park offers kids interactive games and slides.
Piste Des Inuits takes inspiration from northern winter lands and makes learning the basics fun, while Yeti Park's snow tunnels and surprise animations will captivate them. At Ranch Nordique, you can treat the kids to a pony-drawn sledge ride for a peaceful opportunity to discover the mountains.
