France has established a strong reputation for its ski resorts’ and they are the most popular ski holiday destination for us Brits. Despite all the moans about its high prices, its charm wins us over every time. Each resort in France has its own character from a traditional feel to purpose built ski convenience, here are a few that you will have to visit at least once!
Meribel
Sitting at the heart of The Three Valleys ski area, Meribel is the perfect hub to access 600km of linked pistes in the epic ski area whilst offering traditional alpine charm. Accommodation in Meribel is largely chocolate-box like chalets which can be located further away from the lifts and require you to walk or take a bus to the lifts. It is situated at 1450 m but its highest runs at Mont Vallon reach 2,950m and have some of the best snow conditions.
A good choice for: extensive skiing, families, groups, après ski, non-skiers, a traditional feel.
Les Arcs
One half of the Paradiski area unlocking 425km of linked pistes with La Plagne, Les Arcs has a massive range of runs and put in a lot of investment into modern and efficient lift systems over the years. Notably the Vanoise Express double decker cable car linking Les Arcs and La Plagne which is has been referred to as one of a kind. There are seven different resort bases in Les Arcs at varying altitudes and each with their own character.
A good choice for: families, intermediate skiers, snowboarders, non-skiers, extensive skiing, ski in ski out accommodation, late & early season skiing.
Chamonix
Chamonix is a mecca for advanced skiing and is one of the most famous resorts in the Alps as the oldest ski resort and hosting the first ever Winter Olympics in 1924. It is nestled at the foot of the iconic Mont Blanc which forms its steep descents and extreme off piste terrain. The town itself still carries its historic alpine charm and many visitors claim it’s such a unique resort that is incomparable to any others.
A good choice for: advanced skiers, off piste terrain, short breaks, short transfers, a traditional feel.
Val d’Isere
Of course, we had to include Val d’Isere in our top recommendations! Val d’Isere is a world class resort and a gem for advanced skiers and confident intermediates. It forms part of the Espace Killy ski area which was named after the Olympic triple gold medallist for men’s downhill, Jean-Claude Killy. Its advanced terrain isn’t its only selling point, with guaranteed snow, 300km of terrain shared with Tignes and upmarket après ski are also huge attractions.
A good choice for: advanced skiers, off-piste terrain, après ski, non-skiers, late & early season skiing