Top 15 Ski Resorts to Visit in France

France’s mountainous regions present an exceptional opportunity for skiing enthusiasts; however, selecting the appropriate resorts may be challenging based on individual skill levels and considerations for family skiing. Additionally, some may wish to explore various activities beyond the slopes or prioritize off-piste adventures, snowparks, and challenging black runs over après-ski experiences.

Some resorts cater to family-friendly holidays amidst enchanting winter landscapes, while others appeal to avid off-piste skiers and snowboarders seeking excitement. For those yearning for the thrill of red and black runs or the exhilaration of exploring ungroomed terrain, the following sections detail the premier ski resorts in France:

1. Avoriaz, Haute-Savoie

A notable feature of the Avoriaz design, located on the Swiss border, is that the slopes are predominantly shaded throughout the day, while the resort itself enjoys abundant sunshine. With over 130 kilometers of pistes nearby, the resort is centrally positioned in the Portes du Soleil area, featuring an additional 650 kilometers of skiing terrain and 283 runs.

The majority of the connecting slopes maintain high altitudes, thereby catering to skiers possessing intermediate to advanced skills. Notably, the resort offers an excellent ski school with tailored lessons accommodating parents’ scheduling needs. Freestylers can showcase their skills in the super-pipe and five snowparks, while those seeking off-piste options can enjoy the fresh powder accumulating during the season.

2. Ski Alpe-D’Huez, Isère

For groups of holidaymakers with varying skiing abilities, finding a suitable resort can be challenging. Alpe d’Huez stands out as a unique option that accommodates skiers of all levels, featuring one of the largest ski areas in France. Advanced skiers can venture to the more remote villages where exceptional challenges, such as the renowned Sarenne run, can be found. This means of descent is celebrated as the longest downhill black run globally, stretching for 16 kilometers down the slopes of Pic Blanc.

The lower slopes present options for cruisers and beginners, featuring wide and inviting green pistes.

3. Tignes, Savoie

For those seeking a guarantee of snow, this reliable resort situated in the esteemed Tarentaise Valley is worth considering. The presence of the Grande Motte glacier allows for an extended season, complete with a dramatic underground funicular connecting skiers to the slopes. Furthermore, Tignes is seamlessly integrated into the expansive Espace Killy region alongside Val-d’Isère.

Winter sports enthusiasts are drawn to Tignes due to its promise of an authentic skiing experience, offering a diverse selection of pistes suitable for both novices and experts, alongside an abundance of lift-accessed off-piste areas. Val Claret and Tignes-le-Lac are the highest villages here, conveniently providing access to the skiing terrain.

4. La Plagne, Savoie

Also located in the Tarentaise Valley, La Plagne comprises eleven smaller satellite resorts straddling an impressive elevation range from 3,250 meters to 1,250 meters. Furthermore, it provides easy access to the vast Paradiski territory, ideal for advanced off-piste skiers, which can be reached via the Vanoise Express Cable Car. This iconic ascent provides an unforgettable experience, traversing the steep Ponthurin Valley.

La Plagne caters to a diverse range of ski enthusiasts; for families with young skiers, the green runs at Plagne-Centre, Aime-la-Plagne, Plagne-Bellecôte, and Plagne 1800 are particularly suitable.

5. Chamonix, Haute Savoie

Some individuals may not be avid skiers but still wish to partake in a winter holiday. Consequently, for those planning a trip with such companions, Chamonix should be at the forefront of considerations. The experience here transcends mere skiing and snowboarding; it features iconic landmarks such as Mont Blanc and the transformative cable car ride to the Aiguille du Midi, which towers at 3,842 meters, offering breathtaking views of Europe’s highest peak.

Moreover, serious skiers will find an abundance of challenging terrains, including epic descents and expansive powder fields around Grands Montets and Vallée Blanche, which can be explored for weeks.

6. Serre Chevalier, Hautes-Alpes

Comprising a collection of villages nestled within the Guisane Valley, Serre Chevalier, while not as trendy as resorts like Megève and Val-d’Isère, boasts its own appeal. It is an inviting destination for individuals seeking serious skiing at an affordable price, with little emphasis on après-ski activities. The area encompasses six peaks, with the majority of skiable slopes around Villeneuve and Chantemerle.

The region is characterized by its historic villages, such as Briançon, a beautifully fortified township designed by 17th-century military strategist Vauban to reinforce the territory against external threats.

7. Val-d’Isère, Savoie

Val-d’Isère is a well-known resort located at the end of the Tarentaise Valley, famous for hosting the men’s downhill event of the Albertville Olympics in 1992 and regularly featuring on the FIS Ski World Cup circuit. This high-end destination offers luxurious après-ski experiences, numerous fashion boutiques, and some of the most opulent hotels in the Alps.

With a focus on varied terrain adaptable for all skiing abilities, Val-d’Isère seamlessly connects with neighboring Tignes, forming the Espace Killy with an impressive total of 300 kilometers of pistes. While intermediate skiers will revel in the vast array of options available, experts can conquer extensive off-piste zones served by an outstanding lift network.

8. Peyragudes, Hautes-Pyrénées

Peyragudes was established through the merger of the villages of Peyresourde and Agudes. It caters mainly to individuals with some skiing experience, offering a wonderful selection of 20 blue and 20 red runs. The slopes feature varied aspects, allowing certain pistes to be optimal in the morning while others provide better conditions in the afternoon.

The standout piste for confident skiers is Vallée Blanche, providing an impressive vertical drop of 1000 meters.

9. Méribel, Savoie

Located on the western flank of the Tarentaise Valley, Méribel is a purpose-built resort established in the 1930s. Its charming village-like atmosphere endears it to visitors, as it favors chalet-style accommodations over high-rise buildings. Positioned within the expansive ski area of Les Trois Vallées, which ranks among the largest globally, Méribel offers a vast skiing experience.

The wooded slopes are dotted with quaint sub-villages, all efficiently connected by a well-designed lift network and shuttle services. Intermediate skiers will find plenty to enjoy here, with 36 blue runs constituting more than half of Méribel’s total pistes.

10. La Grave, Hautes-Alpes

La Grave offers a return to skiing as it was intended by the region’s pioneers, emphasizing off-piste and adventurous skiing. It is essential to note that this destination is strictly for experienced skiers. La Grave lacks traditional resort features, with no marked slopes; instead, skiers must rely on guides whilst navigating challenges with over 2,000 meters of elevation change.

For those adept at descending mountains and seeking solitude, La Grave is an excellent choice, albeit with the potential for weather-related closures. Additionally, La Grave is recognized as one of France’s “plus beaux villages,” featuring an assemblage of stone and slate residences facing La Meije, a majestic 4,000-meter summit overlooking the slopes.

11. Valberg, Alpes-Maritimes

While many skiers gravitate towards the more renowned Isola 2000 on the opposite side of Mercantour Park, Valberg presents a similarly convenient option to Nice Airport while offering a larger ski area. Here, visitors can enjoy 90 kilometers of pistes, 25 kilometers of Nordic trails, and a newly established snowpark.

The resort’s welcoming atmosphere distinguishes it from more prestigious locations, providing great appeal to visitors. Families will find ample evening activities available, including an ice skating rink, a cinema, and a sizable heated pool. Youngsters can also begin skiing as early as three years old at the resort’s Parc des Boursin.

12. Megève, Haute-Savoie

Megève has garnered a longstanding reputation as a favored destination for Europe’s elite, originally developed by the Rothschild family after their discontent with Saint-Moritz. The resort features a medieval core expanded in the 1920s, offering both quaint aesthetics and modern amenities. The resort’s charm lies in its walkable streets, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the ambiance post-skiing.

Additionally, skiing in Megève provides the opportunity to navigate through secluded woodland slopes, as the terrain’s absence of rocky outcrops permits skiing with minimal snow cover.

13. Isola 2000, Alpes-Maritimes

Situated at the border of Mercantour National Park, Isola 2000 is conveniently accessible from the French Riviera. Historically part of the Kingdom of Piedmont, it became French territory post-World War II. The resort’s elevated altitude, exceeding 2,000 meters, ensures reliability in snow conditions.

Isola 2000 is particularly recognized for its family-friendly green runs, enabling youthful skiers, teenagers, and parents to enjoy skiing together. However, it is worth noting that the resort lacks aesthetic appeal compared to destinations like Megève, where the vintage concrete buildings may appear dated.

14. La Clusaz, Haute-Savoie

La Clusaz, nestled in the Aravis Range, emerged as a snow sports destination at the onset of the 20th century, coinciding with the opening of a roadway to Annecy that encouraged tourism. Despite its lower elevation, access to La Clusaz can be challenging, which helps mitigate overcrowding from day-trippers.

The high gradients surrounding the village facilitate a variety of challenging runs, making this resort ideal for intermediate and expert skiers, with 200 kilometers of diverse terrain. Experienced skiers and snowboarders will particularly appreciate the red, black, and free-riding opportunities in the L’Aiguille and Balme sectors.

15. Saint-Lary Soulan, Hautes-Pyrénées

Stationed on the west side of the Néouvielle Massif in the Pyrenees, Saint-Lary-Soulan excels in catering to families with its array of facilities. Alongside more than 100 kilometers of downhill slopes, it ranks among the largest skiable expanses within the Pyrenees, while also offering relaxation options for those who need respite from skiing.

Long-standing as a spa destination due to its therapeutic waters, the village has introduced the Sensoria therapy center, providing an excellent service range including wraps, massages, a solarium, and pools designed to alleviate any discomfort. Additionally, the resort features a “Kidpark” and snow kindergarten at Pla’ Adet, ensuring enjoyment for younger skiers up to twelve years old.