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Peak perfect: the 5 best ski resorts in France

The Mediterranean • Insider guides • Peak perfect: the 5 best ski resorts in France

Discover the magic of the best ski resorts in France

France’s ski scene is full of diverse ski terrains, historic resorts and unparalleled experiences that distinguish it from other European destinations. The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, in particular, boasts some of the world’s most renowned resorts, each offering unique attributes. For instance, the region is home to Europe’s largest skiable glacier, providing year-round skiing opportunities. A distinctive feature of French resorts is their extensive interconnected ski areas. Les Trois Vallées, for example, is the largest linked ski domain in the world and offers seamless access to multiple resorts on a single lift pass.

Chamonix

Chamonix, located beneath the jagged peaks of Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest mountain, this French Alpine town has lured adventurers since the first recorded ascent in 1786. What truly sets Chamonix apart is its extreme terrain – serious skiers flock here for the Vallée Blanche, a legendary 20-kilometre off-piste descent through glaciers and crevasses, accessible only via the iconic Aiguille du Midi cable car. Beyond skiing, the town exudes an authentic Alpine vibe, with its lively après-ski scene and markets selling Reblochon cheese and handmade wooden crafts. Cultural significance abounds too. It hosted the first Winter Olympics in 1924, cementing its place in sporting history. For those less inclined to ski, a ride on the historic Montenvers Railway to the Mer de Glace glacier offers breathtaking views, while ice caves sculpted anew each year provide a fleeting but magical experience. With a mix of high-octane adventure and rich heritage, Chamonix defies the cliché of a winter getaway, offering instead a dynamic hub where adrenaline meets legacy.

Val d’Isere

Val d’Isère stands out as the quintessential Alpine playground for both seasoned skiers and those drawn to its storied legacy. Sharing the renowned Espace Killy ski area with Tignes, it boasts over 300 kilometres of pistes, including the legendary La Face de Bellevarde, an Olympic downhill course that tests even the most advanced skiers. The village itself is steeped in history, dating back to the 17th century and its stone-and-wood architecture reflects a traditional Savoyard aesthetic while housing world-class amenities. Unlike many purpose-built resorts, Val d’Isère maintains a lived-in feel, hosting seasonal events like the Critérium de la Première Neige, which attracts top-tier ski racers every December. Beyond skiing, the resort offers unique experiences such as ice driving on a dedicated circuit or relaxing in designer chalets with Michelin-starred cuisine. For non-skiers, a snowshoe trek to the nearby Manchet Valley offers a quieter way to experience the region’s dramatic landscapes. In short, Val d’Isère offers a multifaceted appeal that few other resorts can match.

Courchevel

Courchevel isn’t just part of the world’s largest linked ski area, Les Trois Vallées – it’s the crown jewel, celebrated for its mix of elite luxury and expansive terrain. Spanning five distinct villages, its pistes cater to all levels, from the sweeping green runs of Courchevel 1650 to the adrenaline-pumping couloirs above 1850, some of the steepest in the Alps. What truly sets Courchevel apart is its culinary refinement. Michelin-starred restaurants such as Le 1947 offer gastronomic experiences that rival its slopes, and the resort is known for its high-end chalets complete with private chefs and spas. For a cultural twist, the annual International Fireworks Festival lights up the snow-covered valley, blending pyrotechnics with the alpine backdrop. Non-skiers are equally catered for, with options like winter hikes to the frozen Lac de la Rosière or ice skating at the chic Forum rink. A rich heritage of hosting elite clientele – from royalty to Hollywood stars – adds to its allure, yet it remains welcoming to all who appreciate quality. Whether drawn by its impeccably groomed runs, après-ski sophistication or bespoke experiences, Courchevel offers a level of prestige that makes it a standout in the Alps.

Les Arcs

Les Arcs stands out for its avant-garde architecture and exceptional diversity in skiing terrain. Conceived in the 1960s by visionary designer Charlotte Perriand, the resort’s villages – Arc 1600, 1800, 1950, and 2000 – blend modernist aesthetics with seamless access to the slopes. It’s part of the Paradiski area, linked by the jaw-dropping Vanoise Express cable car, which soars across a 1,800-metre gorge to connect with La Plagne. Les Arcs is a haven for intermediates, but it also boasts some of the Alps’ most thrilling descents, like the Aiguille Rouge run, a 7-kilometre, 2,000-metre vertical drop that challenges even experts. Beyond the pistes, the Mille8 development offers an innovative twist with its illuminated forest trail and year-round aquatic centre. For après-ski, Arc 1950’s pedestrianised village provides a lively yet family-friendly vibe, while Arc 1800 caters to night owls with its bars and live music venues. Les Arcs also prides itself on sustainability, with efforts like the Funicular railway that reduces road traffic.

Morzine

Morzine offers a unique blend of traditional Alpine character and vast skiing opportunities as part of the Portes du Soleil, one of the largest ski areas in the world. The resort is renowned for its accessibility, with slopes that cater to all levels, from the cruisy blue runs around Pleney to the more daring black descents of Chamossière. Unlike many purpose-built resorts, Morzine retains the charm of a working mountain village, with its slate-roofed chalets and a weekly market showcasing local delicacies like Abondance cheese. Morzine has been a popular destination since the 1930s, making it one of the pioneers of French ski tourism. For thrill-seekers, the neighbouring Avoriaz snow park – just a lift ride away – offers some of Europe’s best freestyle terrain. Off the slopes, Morzine is equally vibrant, with its après-ski scene ranging from cosy fireside bars to live music venues. Unique experiences abound, such as evening snowshoe treks lit by headlamps or paragliding over the valley’s dramatic landscapes.