The best ski resorts in France

These charming destinations in France are home to fresh snow, quaint villages and stunning views all season long

Winter is approaching and it can only mean one thing—ski season is almost upon us. So get your ski gear out and prepare to hit the slopes. If you’re looking to get a head start, consider a trip to France where the season starts as early as November.

With a wide selection of world-class ski resorts, breathtaking alpine landscapes and charming villages, France is a wonderland for winter sports enthusiasts. What’s more, slopes cater to all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

If you’re still deciding where to ski this year, read on for some recommended French destinations to hit for fresh powdery snow.

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Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Aiguille du Midi (3,842 m) is mountain in Mont Blanc massif in French Alps.

Above Chamonix-Mont-Blanc (Photo: Getty Images)

For avid skiers, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc needs no introduction. Also known as Chamonix, the commune is popular all year round—from hiking in the summer to skiing in the winter. While it has a reputation for being one of the most challenging areas to ski and snowboard, the commune also offers beginner and intermediate slopes. The Les Touches area is suitable for novice skiers, while the more advanced should head to the Le Brevent area for its black pistes.

Val d’Isere

Above Val d’Isere (Photo: Getty Images)

Skiers and snowboarders looking for a challenge should put Val d’Isere on their list, with its challenging on and off-piste terrains. Advanced skiers can try their hand at the La Face de Bellevarde, a black-rated piste and a World Cup downhill ski course. Developed in 1992, the legendary course spans two kilometres with a 32.1 per cent incline. Apart from the slopes, the commune also offers a range of other exciting activities from dog sledging to paragliding. While you’re here, check out its vibrant food scene, which is only accessible on skis.

Tignes

Above Tignes (Photo: Getty Images)

Connected to Val d’Isere via chairlift, Tignes is known as one of the snowiest destinations in France. The commune offers 300 kilometres worth of pistes and over 70 chair lifts. Here, look forward to beautiful powder terrains suitable for all levels. Beginners will find nursery slopes at Le Lac and Le Lavachet, while intermediates looking to hone their off-piste skills can head to Le Spot for its dedicated off-piste area.

Les 3 Vallees

Aerial view of Val Thorens, trois vallees complex, France

Above Les 3 Vallees (Photo: Getty Images)

With 180 ski lifts and 600 kilometres of pistes, Les 3 Vallees is the world’s largest connected ski area. It’s also where you’ll find Val Thorens, the highest ski resort in Europe. The region offers a mix of starter and advanced slopes—beginner skiers can look forward to 43 green runs and 129 blue runs while while intermediate skiers can explore its 125 red runs. Looking to go off-piste? Try the Couloir Croix des Verdant and the Creux Noirs ski areas. Head up Le Signal and get to admire stunning views of Mont Blanc, or to the top of La Saulire for breathtaking views of the Alps.

Megeve

Above Megeve (Photo: Getty Images)

If you’re not looking to spend your entire holiday on the slopes, this village is for you. On top of its slopes, this ski resort village in the Alps is also boasts a number of chic chalets, medieval village centres and a vibrant food scene. The village is situated approximately 1,110 metres above sea level, which offers stunning views of the Alps. After a day on the slopes, visit neighbouring spa town Saint Gervais and relax in the hot spring.

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Topics

Ski Snowboard France Where to ski in France Chamonix-Mont Blanc Tignes Val d’Isere Megreve Les 3 Vallees

Tatler Asia

Hitting the slopes: The best ski destinations in France

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Val d’Isere

Tignes

Les 3 Vallees

Megeve