Winter sports have the power to convince a large part of the French population. Indeed, this activity brings together sport, sensations, conviviality and sharing. This is why there are many families, groups of friends and even corporate teams in the resorts.
In addition, there is something for all tastes, for all ages and for all levels. Thus, even if sport is not your forte, you can still enjoy the landscapes, or more unusual activities such as snowmobiling or dog sledding in these ski resorts.
But you still have to choose your ski resort among all those that exist in France. There are currently about 350 regulated in the country. So how do you choose the right one? We have selected 10 resorts for winter sports that are worth the detour!
Summary
- 1. Val Thorens
- 2. La Plagne
- 3. Alpe d’Huez
- 4. Avoriaz
- 5. The big Tourmalet
- 6. Courchevel
- 7. Megeve
- 8. La Clusaz
- 9. The two Alps
- 10. Serre Chevalier
1. Val Thorens
In the Savoyard Alps, Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe. Indeed, his village culminates at 2300 meters above sea level and its summit at 3230 meters. In addition, it belongs to the ski area of 3 valleys which represents about 600 km of slopes in total. There is something for all tastes and for all levels. So, whatever your expectations of a ski holiday, you should find what you are looking for in Val Thorens.
2. La Plagne
Also in the Savoie department is the ski resort named La Plagne in the Tarentaise valley. If you are not from the area or if you are not a fan of winter sports, you may have never heard of this resort. And yet, it is the most popular in the world. With its 225 kilometers of alpine skiing, it is gigantic and welcomes more than 2.5 million visitors every winter.
3. Alpe d’Huez
In Isère, near Grenoble, this resort is well known for several reasons. With its 300 days of sunshine per year, Alpe d’Huez is also called “the island in the sun”. In addition to its very significant ski area, this ski resort hosts many sporting and cultural events every year. If you like winter sports, but also want to enjoy a more than friendly atmosphere, Alpe d’Huez is the ideal destination!
4. Avoriaz
À la frontière suisse, la station de ski d’Avoriaz est idéale pour les familles ainsi que pour les personnes qui aiment la tranquillité. En effet, avec son domaine relativement petit par rapport à d’autres stations voisines (mais quand même suffisamment grand), skier y est très agréable.
5. The big Tourmalet
This time, go to the French Pyrenees. This is the largest domain in the region! This resort is well worth the detour for its breathtaking landscapes, but also for its affordable prices. In addition, the resort is largely suitable for families. You can therefore enjoy your stay with your children in complete safety.
6. Courchevel
On the area of the three valleys in Savoie, this resort is renowned for its high standing. Indeed, luxury and chic are key words here. There are many activities and infrastructures. So, you will need time, but above all a substantial budget if you want to try everything!
7. Megeve
This resort in the heart of Mont-Blanc has it all! In addition to its incredible landscapes and architecture, Megève has an interesting history and heritage. By going there, you can also taste many more than delicious dishes in addition to practicing sports and enjoying the snow!
8. La Clusaz
In Haute-Savoie, La Clusaz is a traditional, human-sized ski resort not far from Lake Annecy. The slopes are superb and ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers. This station is however less frequented than the known stations of the region.
9. The two Alps
In Isère, les deux Alpes is the second oldest ski resort in France, about sixty kilometers from Grenoble. This resort is home to the largest glacier in France, so it is possible to ski there in winter as well as in summer.
10. Serre Chevalier
Serre-Chevalier is a resort in the Alps where conviviality is essential! You will find quality slopes, but also varied. It is in particular the perfect ski resort for people of intermediate levels.
