The Alpine ski resorts of France are rightfully said to be some of the best winter resorts in the world. The French Alps are the world's largest center winter holiday: more than three hundred ski stations, almost 4 thousand lifts, and the shortest queues at them. There are more than four thousand tracks for amateurs connected and differing in the level of difficulty. alpine skiing, snowboards and other types of extreme winter recreation. If you ever come across a selection of resorts in france, check out this article!
On the slopes of the Alps, various competitions are often held, including world championships and the Olympics.
The most popular resorts in the region are Chamonix, Courchevel, Val d'Isere, Val Thorens, Les Deux Alpes, Tignes, La Plagne, Megeve, Meribel, etc.
Chamonix
Chamonix- the largest mining ski resort France, located in the heart of the French Alps at the top of the famous crystalline massif of Mont Blanc.
Chamonix Valley- a unique natural area near the borders of Italy and Switzerland is included in the list of landscapes that make up the world heritage. The longest slopes reach several tens of kilometers. The highest point in Chamonix is the famous "White Valley".
Its height reaches 3842 m, and its length is more than 20. Such extreme sports as ice mountaineering, rock climbing, winter rafting, paragliding, canyoning are developed here. In summer, the resort welcomes mountain bikers and climbers.
You can stay in the Chamonix resort in the following hotels:
- Les Chamonix Sud
- La Riviere
- Res. Chamois blanc
- Le Cristal D'argentiere
- Res. La Ginabelle
Espace Killy
Espace Killy is an area in the French Alps, named after its three-time world champion in alpine skiing, Jean-Claude Keely, which rightfully deserves a reputation as one of the the most wonderful resorts not only in the Alps, but all over the world. The popular resort towns of Val d'Isere and Tignes are located on its territory - ultra-modern slopes, suitable not only for beginners, but also for professionals.
On the glaciers of this region, you can ski not only in winter, but also in summer (thanks to the Pissaillas glacier), beginners in skiing have the opportunity to study in ski schools located right on the gentle slopes. Snowboarders can enjoy the ultra-modern corridors Le Lasvancher, Les Danaides, La Table and Kern. The resort is visited not only by sports enthusiasts, but also by those who want to try a helicopter ride, dog sledding, snowmobiling or snowshoeing.
Espace Killy can be reached from the following airports: Geneva - 160 km, Grenoble - 143 km, Chambery - 120 km and Lyon - 340 km. In addition, take the motorway via Albertville or Moutiers. Before resort area There are bus routes from Geneva and Lyon airports 3-4 times a day.
You can stay in such hotels:
- AVENUE LODGE 5 *
- AIGLE DES NEIGES 4 *
- CRETES BLANCHES 3 *
- BREVIERES CLUB HOTEL MMV (2 *)
Three Valleys (Les Trois Vallees)
The Three Valleys (LeTroix Vallee) is the world's largest mining region ski slopes with a total length of 600 km, located at an altitude of 1.3-3.2 km.
It includes a resort Val Thorens- "Roof of the Three Valleys", located at an altitude of 2,300 km, Its peak is a picturesque mountain peak Cime de Caron, offering a magnificent view of Mont Blanc.
Second resort - Meribel- "Heart of the Three Valleys". It is located at an altitude of 1.4 km and is divided into the classic French Méribel Center and the more modern Méribel Mottarea, both areas are completely covered with perfectly smooth slopes and cross-country trails. In addition, here you can play hockey, just go for a drive on the ice rink and even take part in sled races.
And finally the famous Courchevel- which is one of the most prestigious resorts in France, with a developed infrastructure, hotels of the highest level, excellent quality of service and a developed entertainment network. Courchevel is located at altitudes from 1300 to 1850 m. At the same time, a lover of ski slopes can ski every day on various slopes for a month, conquering new heights and slopes every day, never repeating his route.
In addition to the traditional tracks, professionals can appreciate the two Olympic jumping tracks. There are several ice slalom and downhill slopes,
Alpe d'Huez- one of the few resorts where a wide variety of tracks is presented in a relatively small area. A cozy compact village in the shape of a triangle is located above the Romansh valley; most of the hotels and residences are located next to the track or the ski lift.
Among the French themselves, the Alpes Duez has earned the romantic name "Sun's Frame" due to the fact that the slopes located on the upper plateau and facing south from early morning until late at night bathe in the sun.
It is the fifth largest French skiing region. The most famous trails in Europe are located here: the Saren descent with a length of 16 km, and the Tunnel trail, cut through the glacier.
Resort hotels:
- Res. L'ours Blanc
- Res. Le Cristal De L'alpe
- Res. Les bergers
- Res. Les Horizons D'huez
- Res. Les Melezes
Location:
The resort can be reached from Geneva, from where they go regular flights daily. On Saturdays, very quickly (only 1.5 hours) can be reached from Grenoble by charter flight.
Megeve
Megève is an excellent ski resort with three ski areas. These are Rochebrune-Cote, Mont-d'Arbois and Le Jail. On its territory there is also a museum under open air... Megève is rightfully considered the most elegant and sophisticated mountain resort France.
This is one of oldest resorts French Alps, and recently rightfully entered the club of privileged ski resorts "The Best of the Alps". The resort has a classic alpine village atmosphere. For example, it is forbidden to drive along the main street and you can only ride on horse-drawn carriages. The central streets of the town are paved with ancient cobblestones; some houses were built here at least 200 years ago.
The main attractions are old church built in the 13th century, medieval monastery and city tower... The skiing spots are located at an altitude of 1-2.3 km, and there are many slopes for both beginners and the most real extreme lovers.
Your ski vacation in Megève can be planned at once on three massifs that make up the Evasion ski area: Rochebrune-Cote 2000, Mont d`Arbois, Le Jaillet ...
Ski tours in Megève will satisfy skiers of all skill levels, as the resort can offer a wide variety of slopes.
For professionals - Mont Joly and Mont Joux, black and red slopes are in Rochebrune - Cote 2000 (Cote 2000).
For the intermediate level - the tracks in Mont d'Arbois, the tracks are more difficult - in the areas of Combloux and Le Jaillet.
For beginners - Rochebrune and Mont d`Arbois, associated with the lift.
Location:
Megeve Located 70 km from Geneva airport and a few km from neighboring Chamonix.
Hotels in Megève:
- Relais & Chateaux Flocons de Sel
- Chalet d'Antoine
- Les cimes
- Les fermes de marie
- Alpaga
Climate in the Alps
The tourist season in the Alps starts in December and ends in March. For a Russian tourist, the climate of the Alps will always be favorable. Winter is much milder and warmer here than in Russia. Average temperature in winter is + 1 degrees Celsius. And although freezing temperatures can occur at any time, it never drops below -10. The winds in the Alps are also not very strong. You can have a rest with children at any time of the tourist season.
Impressions of tourists
The French Alps leave only pleasant impressions for Russian tourists. Russians associate snow-white snow with severe frost or muddy roads. In the Alps, snow resembles clouds. Firstly, the climate of the Alps is very mild and warm, and secondly, there is very clean air and everything around.
Service at the alpine resorts of the most genuine European quality. Here you can find comfortable hotels, gourmet cuisine, and stunning ski slopes. For Russians, the French Alps are like winter at home, only cleared of all the flaws ...
If you like relaxing in the mountains, regardless of the season, we recommend that you read the following articles:
- - going to Italy you can look at the Alps from the other side.
- is a wonderful Polish resort with decent service.
- - as you know, Bavaria is famous not only for its castles, but also for its extremely beautiful mountain landscapes.
Don't rush to leave! Here are some more interesting articles:
Map of Ski Resorts in France with Landmarks
Alps on France map
Map of French Alps detailed
French Alps Map
The French Alps on the world map are located in the southeast of the country. This chain is part of the Western Alps. Geographic map The French Alps will show that the total length of the uplands reaches 330 km. Geographically, the chain is divided into southern and northern. A detailed map of the French Alps will show that there are mountain-glacial uplands in the north. The highest point in the region is the Mont Blanc peak, reaching over 4.8 km. The southern part of the chain, as the map of the French Alps will demonstrate, belongs to the Mediterranean landscape type. The proximity to the sea also determines the appropriate climate.
The map of the French Alps with attractions contains both unique natural areas and architectural monuments located in resort towns... Of course, the main industry in the region is ski tourism. The map of the French Alps in Russian from Arrivo will help you navigate the resorts and slopes.
France offers many ski resorts located in different parts of the country - in the southeast, in the Rhône-Alpes, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, on the border with Switzerland and Italy. The rest are located in the Pyrenees region, near the border with Andorra.
220 ski resorts await ski lovers in France, there is really a huge selection of all winter species alpine skiing. Freeride is practiced in deep snow in Chamonix at the foot of Mont Blanc, the Alpine Ski World Cup takes place in Val d'Isere or the 300 km of the Pistes de la Vallées, cross-country skiers can ski on the slopes of Villars de Lens.
Many ski resorts have a long history. The oldest resort is Chamonix, where the first Olympic Games were held in France in 1924. This has become a fundamental point for the development of other resorts that offer much more than just a winter getaway.
The most famous ski resorts in France
Northern alps
The best ski resorts in the world are located in the Northern Alps. There are first-class ski stations, both large and small. All places are connected by tracks and footpaths.
Tignes - for experienced skiers
The height of the slopes is from 1500 to 3500 meters (150 km). 155 tracks, of which:
- black - 26;
- red - 40;
- blue - 67;
- childrens or greens - 22.
The total number of lifts is 45. The approximate maximum amount per day is 43 €. The tourist resort will appeal to fans of freeride, ice diving, snowmobiling and paragliding. Also in your free time you can do heli-skiing, ice climbing, speed riding. Ski holidays in Tignes offer tourists numerous opportunities for recreation in France: cinemas, hotels, restaurants, playgrounds, clubs, shops, indoor pools.
Val D "ysere is the best
The length of the tracks is from 1550 to 3450 meters. The number of tracks - 154, of which:
- green - 20;
- blue - 67;
- red - 41;
- black - 26.
Lifts - 79. Estimated maximum amount per day - 49 €. With a long history, extraordinary slopes and exceptional services, Val d, Isère is one of the best ski resorts in France.
Courchevel - a luxury holiday
The length of the tracks is from 1850 to 2740 meters. Number of tracks - 98, of which:
- green - 19;
- blue 37;
- red - 31;
- black - 8.
Lifts - 87. Estimated maximum amount per day - 70 €. Courchevel is a place where people who appreciate quality rest in an elite setting.
Southern alps
The meeting of the Alps and the Mediterranean climate gives these places a special character with a southern accent. All modern ski resorts here are located close to the charming little old villages of France.
Oron - a democratic holiday
The length of the tracks is from 1600 to 2450 meters (135 km). The number of tracks - 42, of which:
- black - 8;
- red - 16;
- blue - 16;
- green - 2.
The total number of lifts is 11. Oron is located near Nice and its international airport... It is located in the heart of four French ski resorts that offer a variety of excellent quality ski slopes.
Pyrenees
A natural border between France, Spain, the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, the Pyrenees are an array of contrasts. The villages are home to the most modern, but affordable for most tourists, ski resorts.
Ax-les-Termes - for lovers of flat skiing
The length of the tracks is from 1400 to 2400 meters (80 km). Number of tracks - 35, of which:
- black - 6;
- red - 10;
- blue - 10;
- green - 9.
The total number of lifts is 17. The resort of France offers a snow park and gentle slopes of Bonascre and Baggins.
Central massif
Massif Central has everything you need for winter sports activities - cross-country skiing, dog sledding, paragliding, not to mention the gastronomic diversity and natural and architectural heritage of France.
Mont-dor - universal
The length of the tracks is from 1200 to 1840 meters (41 km). Number of tracks - 31, of which:
- black - 1;
- red - 6;
- blue - 8;
- green - 16.
The total number of lifts - 15. Estimated price max - 30 €. The resort is suitable for beginners and experienced skiers, they will teach you how to choose ski equipment, offer sledding, skiing, ice climbing, mountain tourism.
Vosges
The Vosges resort in France juts out over vast forests and lakes, kilometers of trails and snow, and offers excellent skiing trails. There are especially many family stations here.
Saint Maurice - for cross-country fans
The length of the tracks is from 1100 to 1250 meters (23 km). Number of tracks - 11, of which:
- black - 1;
- red - 2;
- blue - 3;
- green - 5.
The total number of lifts - 5. Estimated price max - 19.5 €. Perfect place for a healthy stay.
- these names are known not only to avid skiers or snowboarders, but also to people far from sports. In this article, we will tell you about best resorts France, where in winter it is pleasant not only to relax, but to ride with the breeze.
Chamonix, overlooking Mont Blanc
Chamonix is located in a beautiful location overlooking the highest peak in Western Europe - Mont Blanc. Height above sea level - 1035 meters. Chamonix is a Mecca for mountaineers in summer and skiers in winter.
In addition, nearby is nature reserve The Mer de Glace (Ice Sea) is one of the most visited in the world.
Near Chamonix you will find a bunch of not only ski entertainment... You can go to the town of Annecy, climb Mont Blanc by train, arrange walks in the caves and a lot more.
Three Valleys (Les Trois Vallées) - the largest ski resort
Three Valleys (or le Trois Valais) is a huge resort that combines several bases at once in the Vanoise mountain range. This includes:
- Courchevel (Courchevel - hotels on this link),
- Méribel (hotels),
- Le Menuires (Les Ménuires - hotels),
- Val Thorens -,
- La Tania (hotels),
- Brides
- and Orelle (Orelle - Hotel Deals).
Avoriaz - tranquility
Located at an altitude of 1800 m above sea level, Avoriaz is modern resort in the heart of the Portes du Soleil. Between the forest and the mountains, the village, completely closed to cars, fits perfectly into the alpine nature. After skiing on the Portes du Soleil ski slopes (total length 650 km), you can visit the Aquariaz, a hot spring center with a temperature of 29 ° C.
Although you won't see a single car in Avoriaz, there are other modes of transport. The proximity of the resort to nature is its main advantage.
The official website of the resort Avoriaz: www.avoriaz.com
Les 2 Alpes - the largest snow park
In the Oisans Mountains, on the border between the Southern and Northern Alps, lies the dynamic resort of Les 2 Alpes. It is the largest chain of ski slopes in Europe. The resort is located at 3600 m above sea level. So the snow lies here almost all year round, so skiers can be found here both in winter and in summer.
The station also continues to develop its snow park: a large playground, snow tube, wall, beginner's slide area and large pillows (huge mattress 15 m) are installed at the bottom of the slopes.
Chamrousse - a real Olympic village
On the southern outskirts mountain range Belledonne is the Chamrousse resort, built in the forest. It offers an exceptional view of the Grenoble Valley. The station was used during the 1968 Winter Olympics. Many future Olympic champions have competed or trained here.
Sharmus Resort Official Website: www.chamrousse.com
Saint-Dalmas le Selvage - cross-country skiing
Saint-Dalma-les-Selvage is the highest village in the Alpes-Maritimes (1347 m - 2916 m). The place is an ideal resort for cross-country skiers. In the heart of nature with untouched landscapes such as the Braïssa Isthmus (2599 m), Mount Aunos (2514 m), the Karl Cross (2529 m), the Moutière Isthmus (2454 m), ice waterfall Gialorgues, you must find your happiness.
An excellent place for snowboarding.
The official website of the resort of Saint-Dalmas-les-Selvage: hiver.saintdalmasleselvage.com
Le Sauze - family resort
Ski resort located in the Ubaye Valley. Soz became famous as family resort... In addition to the joy of skiing, don't miss a tour of Igloo Inuksuk Village, a real village with six igloos and Inuit traditions!
The official website of the resort Le Sauze: www.sauze.com
Megève - the most exclusive resort
Megève has retained its authentic mountain village charm. Surrounded by three mountain ranges with gentle slopes and green forests, stands a fourteenth century medieval village with luxurious shops, cobbled streets, a unique atmosphere and, of course, wonderful pistes.
It is a fashionable resort where chalets, hotels and restaurants compete tirelessly for their prestige.
The official website of the resort of Megeve: www.megeve.com
Serre-Chevalier - the sunniest resort
It is one of the largest ski resorts in the Alps with 250 km of ski slopes. Located at altitudes from 1200 to 2800 m above sea level. At the foot highest peaks is sunlit National park Ecrins.
Serre Chevalier is one of the sunniest places in the Alps, with the sun shining 300 days a year!
Serre-Chevalier official website: www.serre-chevalier.com
Enjoy your holiday in the French Alps!
France is one of the most best countries peace for ski holiday... Every year the slopes of this country attract amateurs active rest- More than two hundred ski resorts have been created on the territory of the French Alps. Excellent alpine landscapes, fresh mountain air, well-developed infrastructure and magnificent slopes await you. So that everyone can choose the best option to their liking and enjoy extreme riding or calm skiing on the picturesque plains, in this article we will consider only the best ski resorts in France.
1. Chamonix
One of the most visited ski resorts in France is the famous Chamonix, which is famous for the historical title of the capital. extreme species sports and claims to be one of the most famous winter recreation areas in the world. In fact, this resort is the heart of the largest ski area in the French Alps and is located at the foot of the Mont Blanc massif. highest point in the Alps. Chamonix is a destination for the contemplative traveler. From the tops of the resort, magnificent panoramas and snowy landscapes open up. The real thrill-seekers will be delighted by helicopter tours. In total, the resort has 100 ski trails of any difficulty level with a total length of 170 kilometers. Ski season here it lasts from December to May, in summer months Chamonix attracts fans of mountain biking and extreme climbing.
2. Courchevel
There is hardly a single person who has never heard of the famous ski resort of Courchevel in France. This is a recognized world leader in terms of service level among ski resorts, here you can often meet famous politicians and world stars. It is famous for its special lifestyle with a kaleidoscope of entertainment for all tastes, where many cultural events are constantly taking place. The presence of 102 skiing tracks with a total length of 150 kilometers of varying degrees of difficulty will make it possible to spend time interestingly, both for amateurs and real masters. The resort is ready to welcome connoisseurs of winter holidays from November to April.
3. Val Thorens
The superb Val Thorens is the tallest. It is located in a unique natural area- in the center of a large natural park with six glaciers. On the slopes of this picturesque resort, there is always a stable and high-quality snow cover, partly covered by snow is provided by snow cannons. The concept of "skating from the door" is perfectly implemented here - skis are put on immediately at the exit from the hotel, and at the end of the route, it is enough just to drive up to the doorstep of the residence. Val Thorens has 68 ski slopes with a total length of 150 kilometers. The skiing season lasts from December to early May.
4. Meribel
Meribel is a winter resort full of French charm and charm, with its own unique architectural style and flavor. It's calm and quiet place perfect for family vacation... The resort offers 150 kilometers of well-prepared ski runs that offer fantastic opportunities for beginners and experts alike. In addition to traditional winter sports, Meribel offers many other entertainment options. V Olympic Park there is a large pool with water slide, sauna and ice rink. Sleigh rides or dog sledding will leave an unforgettable experience. And after your sporting achievements, it is worth taking a walk in the nearby mountain villages, the local trails are very beautiful.
5. Alpe d'Huez
The largest ski resort in France, Alpe d'Huez, offers excellent conditions for maximum comfortable rest the whole family. Alpe d'Huez is characterized by great quality natural snow cover, but snow cannons are installed in low areas. Skiing routes of all difficulty levels, from amateur to professional, are at the service of skiers. The total length of the ski runs is 240 kilometers. An interesting fact is that the sun shines in Alpe d'Huez 300 days a year, it is really the sunniest resort. The season here starts at the end of November and lasts until the beginning of May. But you can enjoy the beauty of the Alpe d'Huez even in the summer.
6. Megeve
This superb and prestigious French ski resort includes three ski areas. Megève is designed for skiers of all skill levels, some of the tracks are laid on fairly gentle and wooded slopes, and the rest will satisfy the requirements of the most experienced athletes. From December to April, there are 135 slopes for alpine skiing enthusiasts, the total length of which is 445 kilometers. The town itself is famous for its exquisite architecture, and is surrounded on all sides by high mountains and fir forests. Travelers who are tired of skiing can be advised to stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town and visit the local attractions.
7. Les Deux Alpes
This ski resort international level, lying at the foot of one of the largest glaciers in Europe and receiving guests all year round. Les Deux Alpes has 104 pistes with a length of 225 kilometers. The local slopes offer excellent beginner trails, ideal for learning and strengthening skills. There are many teaching schools in the region where you can take group or individual lessons. By the end of the training, the student will not only be able to ride confidently enough, but also get real pleasure from the descent. This resort is especially loved by young people, choosing it because of the cheerful atmosphere and relatively low prices.
8. Avoriaz
The modern ski center Avoriaz in France has excellent opportunities for winter recreation, a well-developed infrastructure and comfortable hotels with a "skating from the door" system. The total length of the ski slopes is over 650 km. This is due to the location of the resort in the center of the ski area, which unites several complexes. Snow cover is guaranteed here from December to April. Walking around Avoriaz will be a great pleasure after skiing. This place is especially attractive for family vacations; a whole area is allocated here for children. The Children's Village offers young visitors skiing, towed ponies, and there are also special children's tracks with Disney characters.
9. Les Arcs
The French ski resort Les Arcs, founded in 1960, continues to develop dynamically and can now offer its guests a modern infrastructure at a high level. The resort has ski schools and children's clubs, where animators conduct a variety of game and educational activities. On the slopes of Les Arcs there are 106 trails 200 kilometers long. For high-level skiers, the descent from the top of the legendary black piste Aiguille Rouge will be attractive. Several world records have been set here and important and spectacular competitions are often held here. For skiers, Les Arcs is available from mid-December to early May. This resort is recommended for lovers of a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and untouched wilderness.
10. Val d'Isere
Val d'Isere is a ski resort in the south-east of France that combines the distinctive architectural style, traditional alpine hospitality and quality technical equipment. It is located in a picturesque valley, where the ski area has a length of over 300 kilometers of connected ski tracks, along which you can navigate without taking off your skis. Val d'Isere opens its slopes from December to May. The special charm of Val d'Isere is given by walking along the streets of the resort, which retain the spirit of antiquity and transport guests to bygone times.
