The best ski resorts in France are not all the same. Some offer great value, while others are not worth the price. There are several key factors to consider when deciding on a ski resort, including safety, terrain, service, and location. Read on to learn more.
Serre Chevalier
Serre Chevalier is located in the southern French Alps. It has a large ski area that extends west from the UNESCO World Heritage town of Briancon. The ski runs are largely located along the north side of a high ridge.
This is a great place for families and beginners. Many people choose to visit the area during school holidays. There are plenty of activities available in the summer, including mountain biking.
Serre Chevalier’s ski slopes offer good off-piste skiing and open bowl skiing. They also feature many tree-sheltered runs. In addition, they have a wide range of ski schools.
As well as the slopes, Serre Chevalier has a large spa and hot air balloon rides. A new winter attraction is the Giant Zipline, which offers a 300-metre vertical drop.
Although it’s not the most well-known ski resort, Serre Chevalier is a charming and authentic French ski village. You’ll find quaint bridges and stone churches. While it’s not the most expensive ski resort, it is less expensive than Haute-Savoie Alps.
The valley offers some spectacular natural attractions, including Ecrins National Park. The village of Nevache is particularly beautiful. During the summer, you can enjoy activities such as mountain biking and hiking.
La Plagne
La Plagne ski resort is one of the largest ski areas in France. It offers a wide range of terrain. From tree-lined runs to wide open bowls. This is a great choice for intermediates.
La Plagne has a great reputation for off-piste skiing. There are some steep couloirs, off-piste lines and some challenging black pistes. For expert skiers, there are some excellent guided freeride tours.
There are several new lifts to speed up connections between villages. The Plagne Centre area has an improved beginners’ zone. It is long enough to let you get used to the lifts and to relax before venturing up the mountain.
The area has a good selection of blue and red runs. You can also find some long, tree-lined off-piste trails. If you’re looking for a challenge, head for the glacier.
La Plagne is an ideal choice for mixed-ability groups. Beginners can practise parallel turns and improve their confidence before venturing up the mountain. Intermediates can enjoy some of the longer runs and off-piste, while experts can try some of the more challenging terrain.
La Plagne is part of the Paradiski domain, which is the largest in Europe. Paradiski includes the neighbouring Les Arcs ski area. These two areas are linked by the Vanoise Express cable cars.
Val d’Isere
Val d’Isere is one of the best ski resorts in France, and is also a top European ski resort. With over 300 km of pistes, the resort has a wide variety of terrain. Beginners can start on the nursery slopes, while intermediate and advanced skiers can enjoy the more challenging runs.
One of the main reasons Val d’Isere is such a popular destination is its snow. It has a reputation for being snow sure and has a lot of snowmaking capacity. There are also a number of off-piste areas, and the resort is known for its backcountry skiing.
The resort has a good public transport system, and a variety of hotels and chalets. Most visitors stay in the main village. Hotel prices are on the high side, especially around Christmas. But the central village has a nice pedestrian atmosphere and regular night markets.
The lifts and hotels in Val d’Isere have recently been upgraded. This includes the addition of a 10-person gondola that will serve the highest altitude hotel in France. Also, a new pedestrianized core is being built, linking the slopes to the village.
Val d’Isere’s central village offers all the charm of a classic mountain village. There is an excellent range of restaurants, and a lively apres-ski scene.
Peyragudes
Peyragudes is a ski resort in the Pyrenees, on the French side of the mountains. It is considered one of the best ski resorts in the French Alps. This ski area has a great variety of pistes for all levels of skier.
The slopes of Peyragudes are perfect for all ages and abilities. You can go on ski tours, or even take a snowshoe hike. In addition, you can try your hand at paragliding. These activities offer you a spectacular view of the surrounding peaks.
Peyragudes is a small but very popular ski area that offers great views and a peaceful setting. During the main school holidays, you can see plenty of families and visitors.
If you want to get the most out of your visit, then you might consider staying at one of the many ski hotels or slope-side accommodations. There are several restaurants and shops in the village.
Aside from skiing, you can also enjoy winter canyoning, paragliding and a tour of the snow factory. This resort also offers snow grooming and avalanche search device training.
Peyragudes is home to two terrain parks, and you can choose from several runs that suit your level of experience. There are four black runs and 17 red ones.
Val Thorens
Val Thorens is a ski resort located in the French Alps. It has become one of the most popular European ski resorts. The area is part of the world’s largest linked ski area.
Val Thorens is an excellent choice for beginners, intermediate and expert skiers. With over 140km of slopes, Val Thorens offers something for all types of skier.
Beginner skiers will love the gentle slopes of Rond Point des Pistes. Intermediate skiers can head towards Cime de Caron, a challenging climb. Those looking for an off-piste adventure should head towards the glacier du Bouchet.
For those looking to experience the thrill of an acrobatic flight, paramotor tours are available. An experienced instructor will take you on an exciting adventure. To book a lesson, you will need to make an advance booking.
Several freestyle competitions are held throughout the season. Val Thorens also has a dedicated beginner zone.
Aside from skiing, there are many activities to enjoy. The dog sledge ride is an age-old tradition in the area. This activity is a must for children. There is also a variety of apres-ski activities, including gourmet experiences and Michelin-starred restaurants.
There are more than 220K likes on Val Thorens’ Facebook page. The resort has won national awards ten times and has been ranked in the top three in the World Ski Awards.
Le Rond-Point des Pistes
Le Rond-Point des Pistes is a ski resort in France. It is located in the Val Claret area of Tignes at an altitude of 2100 metres. Located slope-side, it is perfect for skiing without the main lifts.
The resort is ideally situated for skiers who want to avoid the crowds. Guests can walk to St. Francois village, or take a free shuttle bus.
For those interested in skiing on more challenging black pistes, the Roche de Mio is an off-piste area that requires a guide. There is also a glacier, called the Bellecote, which offers a number of steep couloirs.
One of the most popular ski resorts in the French Alps is Val Thorens. The resort was built in the early 1970s, and is now a star in the French Alps. This is one of the best ski resorts for beginners and intermediates.
Another great ski resort is Courchevel 1850. This ski resort is located in the Three Valleys and boasts some of the best apres-ski in the Alps.
For those who want to get away from the crowds, the Pyrenees offer a range of excellent ski resorts at a budget-friendly price. These mountains are near the Spanish border, and offer varied terrain, good snow, and stunning scenery.
Chamonix
Chamonix is one of the most popular ski resorts in France. With a vast array of activities, Chamonix is a great place to spend a winter holiday. It is a town that is rich in history and culture. There are numerous hotels to choose from, and you will find plenty of restaurants to satisfy your appetite.
A great way to get around the valley is by bus. The bus station is located in the village of Les Houches, but you can also take the train.
Chamonix has several luxury hotels, as well as some budget options. The Grand Hotel des Alpes and the Auberge du Manoir are two examples. You can also opt for a chalet style hotel.
The area is home to a wide range of off-piste and expert terrain. Throughout the year, there is a good snow cover, and some of the lines are challenging.
In addition to its world-class skiing, Chamonix is known for its freeride spots. These include the Valley Blanche, which is a 20-kilometre run.
Chamonix also has a number of other things to do outside of the slopes. For example, the Merlet Animal Park houses animals from all over the world.
How to Save Money on Your French Ski Holiday
Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just starting out, there are a few ways you can save money on your French ski holiday. The best way to start is by making sure you are not overspending on flights, hotels, and transport. You should also try to avoid taking too much cash on your trip, as foreign currency can add up fast. Make use of a pre-paid credit card or a prepaid card to avoid transaction fees. For extra protection, a prepaid MasterCard or a prepaid Visa can be a good choice.
While flying to France is often the most convenient option, it is a costly one. If you can get to the Alps by car, you’ll be able to save a fortune. There are a number of factors that affect transportation costs, such as the season and the location.
Purchasing a ski pass before you leave for your holiday is a great way to save money. Most tour operators get discounted rates from the lift pass companies, so if you plan ahead, you can save up to PS130 per person. It’s not always easy to book an extended ski holiday, but a little effort can go a long way.
Food can be a big expense, particularly in the Alps. But it is possible to buy a tasty lunch for a fraction of the price of an expensive meal at a mountain restaurant. Some supermarkets have small sized sandwiches and raw ingredients for making your own. Try stopping en route to your ski resort at a large supermarket down the valley. This is a cheaper alternative, especially if you buy a baguette or a chocolate bar and fill your bag with goodies.
Taking a group of friends on a ski trip is another way to save money. Groups usually get special discounts, so be sure to ask when booking. Also, try to schedule trips outside the busiest times of the year. Doing so can mean you get a bit of skiing in without the crowds.
A week on the slopes in the French Alps can be quite expensive, but a midweek holiday can work wonders. Hotels are normally flexible on the dates you arrive, and if you can book a flight that doesn’t involve a morning flight, you can save a bundle.
Aside from saving money on transportation, you can also save on accommodation. Most resorts in the Alps have ski-in, ski-out lodgings, which can be a godsend if you’re traveling with a family. Another good tip is to stay in a chalet with catering included, rather than paying for a restaurant meal. However, this does mean you’ll be sharing a room with other people, so make sure you’re on your guard when you’re out on the slopes.
Getting there can also be cheap, especially if you decide to take the train. The Eurostar takes about two hours to reach Paris, while an hour on the bus or a thirty minute taxi ride will get you to your destination in the Alps.
When is the Best Time to Go Skiing in France?
If you are planning a trip to the French Alps, you might be asking yourself, “When is the best time to go skiing in France?” While the ski season is a short one, there are a few months out of the year when you are more likely to find good conditions and decent prices. However, you’ll want to be sure to book your trip well in advance if you want to enjoy the benefits.
There are three main times of the year that you can expect great skiing conditions in France. The first is in the early winter months, from December to March. This is the optimum time to take a family ski holiday as the kids are on school holidays, and the slopes are less crowded.
Another time to visit the French Alps is during the last two weeks of December, when the weather is generally mild and the slopes are in the midst of their seasonal thaw. You may even get lucky with a bit of snowfall.
Besides the fact that the French Alps are the country’s most popular vacation spot, they offer a variety of options for a winter escape. Many resorts in the French Alps are only open on weekends. Others have only a few kilometres of pistes. It is also possible to take a trip to some of the more fancier resorts such as Courchevel, Megeve, and Val d’Isere.
If you are looking for the most affordable skiing trip, you should probably stick to January. Prices tend to be more reasonable at this time of year, and the weather is not quite as cold. However, this month is not as busy as February, and you’ll be able to find a number of ski resorts that are offering discounts of up to 50%.
You’ll also want to plan a trip in the middle of the season, when the weather is more bearable. Ski resorts close during the summer, and you’ll find that some restaurateurs are more willing to take a break from serving their customers. Also, you’ll have the chance to stock up on some new gear, as many of the best bargains are on sale during this time of the year.
You should be aware, however, that while you’ll likely find good skiing conditions during the latter half of the winter, you are more likely to have a tough time finding the perfect skiing spot. If you can’t find a place to suit your needs, it might be worth considering a two-part ski holiday.
One of the biggest advantages of taking a skiing trip in the French Alps in the winter is that you’ll be able to get away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. The town of Avoriaz is transformed into a fairy tale village, complete with a multitude of activities to keep you occupied while you’re waiting for your turn on the slopes. For a more mellow experience, you might consider a trip to one of the smaller, less expensive ski resorts such as Tignes or Les Deux Alpes.
Tips For Renting a Car for your Ski-Holidays in France
If you’re planning a trip to France, one of the best ways to experience it is by renting a car. There are a number of different rental car companies in the country, including Solrentacar, Sixt, Europcar, Avis, and National. You’ll want to compare prices, make sure you are eligible to rent, and check out ratings for the company you select.
It’s important to note that you must be at least 21 to rent a car in France. If you aren’t, the company may require an additional payment. Also, you will need a valid driving license and credit card in your name. The minimum age requirement varies among companies.
If you plan to drive on the motorways in France, you’ll need to pay tolls. However, the rates are usually much lower than in the U.S. In fact, they’re often more than double the rate in Canada.
Aside from tolls, you’ll need to pay for fuel. Gas in France is typically twice as expensive as in the United States. Therefore, it’s important to keep a close eye on your tank. Whether you need to refuel on the way or while you’re traveling, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead.
Lastly, you’ll need to consider whether or not you need to purchase collision insurance. This will protect you against any damage to the car or other property that you cause. Depending on the rental company, you may be required to have this insurance. Many rental cars also come with unlimited third-party liability coverage.
Before you leave for your rental, you’ll need to inspect the car to see if it’s in good condition. Some rental cars have small dents or scratches, so you should take note of any issues before you drive away. Other damages can include a crack in the roof or a faulty tire. Make sure to document any problems you discover.
When you return the car, you’ll need to fill it up with gas. The gasoline in France is called “benzine” or “petrol.” Normally, unleaded gasoline is labeled “95” at the pump. On the road, diesel is more common than unleaded. And, since France has a high percentage of mountainous terrain, you might need snow chains during the winter months.
Driving in France is generally very safe, but you should exercise caution at higher altitudes or at night. Traffic jams and confusing intersections are common in the big cities. To avoid these hassles, it’s best to avoid driving during the rush hours.
If you’re planning a multi-stop road trip, it’s a good idea to book accommodations and transportation in advance. This will allow you to save money while you’re out on the road. Whether you’re visiting the Alps or the Pyrenees, there are a number of attractions to enjoy.
Regardless of where you plan to visit, it’s a good idea to bring a passport. The French government will accept a US-issued driver’s license in English.
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