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Our Favourite Ski Resorts in the French Alps
Dreaming of a winter escape to the mountains? Here are a few of our favourite ski resorts in the French Alps, each one offering its own mix of charm, scenery, and that special French art de vivre.
Every winter, the French Alps come alive. For many people in France, skiing isn’t just a sport, it’s a tradition. Families return to the same resorts year after year, friends meet for long weekends on the slopes, and villages tucked between snow-covered peaks turn into lively, welcoming places full of energy.
The Alps are home to some of the best ski resorts in the world, with something for everyone, from legendary destinations like Chamonix and Val d’Isère, to more relaxed and family-friendly resorts like Alpe d’Huez and Méribel. Whether you come for the skiing, the food, or simply the beauty of the mountains, the French Alps offer an unforgettable winter escape.
Here are a few of our favourite ski resorts, each with its own atmosphere, charm, and reason to visit.
Val d’Isère – Chic, Authentic, and Full of Charm
Nestled deep in the valley, Val d’Isère is one of the most elegant and authentic ski resorts in France. The village, with its stone and wood chalets, has managed to keep its traditional character while offering all the comfort of a modern ski destination.
We love the mix here, long ski runs, great restaurants, and plenty of ways to unwind after a day on the slopes. You can spend the morning skiing, enjoy a long lunch in town, and end the day in one of the beautiful spas for which Val d’Isère is famous.
Chamonix – The Soul of the Alps
Chamonix is iconic, a name known around the world and a destination that truly lives up to its reputation. Sitting at the foot of Mont Blanc, it’s a place where adventure and beauty go hand in hand.
This is the heart of alpine life, breathtaking peaks, legendary slopes, and a real sense of history. You can take the famous Aiguille du Midi cable car, one of the highest in Europe, for a panoramic view you’ll never forget, or ride the Montenvers train up to the Mer de Glace glacier.
Beyond skiing, we love Chamonix for its international energy. The town itself is lively, full of cafés, great restaurants, and stylish boutiques. It’s the perfect mix of sport and sophistication and a true symbol of mountain life à la française.
Val Thorens – The Highest Resort in Europe
If you love guaranteed snow and spectacular views, Val Thorens is the place to be. At 2,300 metres, it’s the highest ski resort in Europe and part of the famous Three Valleys, the largest connected ski area in the world.
Because of its altitude, Val Thorens offers excellent snow conditions all season long, perfect for everyone, from beginners to experts. But there’s much more to do here than skiing. You can try paragliding over the valley, the world’s highest zip line, or relax in one of the many luxury spas.
For families, the six-kilometre sledding run (the longest in France) is always a hit, and there are plenty of restaurants and cozy spots to enjoy an evening by the fire.
Alpe d’Huez – Sunshine and Variety
Known as the “Island in the Sun,” Alpe d’Huez enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year, which makes it one of the most pleasant resorts to visit in winter.
We love Alpe d’Huez for its variety: wide slopes for beginners, more technical runs for experienced skiers, and endless off-slope activities. There’s an open-air ice rink, paragliding, snowshoe walks, and a wonderful spa complex with pools and saunas.
The resort is also famous for its International Comedy Film Festival held every January, a fun and lively event that brings a festive atmosphere to the mountains.
Méribel – Elegance in the Heart of the Three Valleys
At the centre of the Three Valleys, Méribel is as charming as it is practical. Built mainly from wood and stone, the village has a warm, traditional feel. The slopes here are ideal for intermediate skiers, but beginners and experts will also find plenty to love and the connections to nearby Courchevel and Val Thorens make it easy to explore.
We like Méribel for its relaxed atmosphere. You can ski all morning, have lunch on a sunny terrace, and spend the afternoon exploring local shops or enjoying an après-ski drink by the fire. It’s a resort that perfectly balances elegance and simplicity.
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