This is it - your key to the French Alps and all the skiing potential that comes with the territory. Runs for all skier levels, snow parks for daring boarders and an après-ski scene to tempt all tastes is just the start of what to expect in the top ski resorts near Geneva.

We’ve picked out a selection of fantastic spots that are conveniently placed for flying in and out of the airport. Each of them is a wintry winner, so come and choose your favourite…

La Clusaz

Once you touch down in Geneva, you’ll be just 66km from La Clusaz. If you’re looking for cosy, this little village is an idyllic place to base yourself for a holiday on the slopes. It’s a well-equipped ski resort near Geneva, made for beginners, mid-levellers and pros alike. But it’s particularly geared up for hardy tricksters!

The whole ski area consists of 84 tracks, with 125km of slopes that are linked by a nifty lift network. As for the views, vast and jagged ice-white peaks create a skyline to rival any other resort. During the evening, it’s all eyes on the produce – cheese, ham and wine are après-ski staples.

Morzine

Depending on the route you opt for, Morzine’s between 70km and 90km from the airport. This French ski resort is a family-friendly choice with a strong emphasis on slopes for all ages and abilities. It’s part of the wider Portes du Soleil area, which provides skiers with 650km of slopes to whizz down. Keen boarder? Nyon Snowpark is renowned for its narrow kickers.

Skiing and snowboarding aside, there’s a huge amount to do here. Mountain biking, fishing, sleigh rides, tennis, paragliding and husky dog sledding to name just a few – there’s even a cinema and bowling alley for the kids! As for mealtimes, you’ll be spoilt for Savoyard choice, but you can’t beat a good old-fashioned fondue.

Megève

Tucked away in the south-east pocket of France, the enchanting Haute-Savoie village of Megève is about 84km from Geneva Airport. It’s a peaceful ski resort, making it the ideal location for families, groups and couples all the same. Expect cookie-cutter buildings in the centre, which have a whimsical wonder about them when dusted with snow during winter.

Three separate mountains comprise the available skiing area, with 400km of pistes to enjoy. Head to the local ski school if you need to brush up on your skills or a cross-country area by contrast for any experts. Why not go one extra and enjoy a sledging experience?

Libraries, galleries and souvenir shops embellish the village, but it’s the rollcall of restaurants that’s so exciting. From local cuisine to fine Michelin-starred dining, here you’ll be in for more than a morsel of fab food.

Chamonix

Big, bold, beautiful – that’s Chamonix. This Alpine destination is undoubtedly up there among the absolute best ski resorts near Geneva. It’s around 100km away from the airport and has bragging rights to an exceptional setlist of slopes for newbies, mid-levellers, seasoned pros and even snowboarders. Embrace the 120 runs that snake through the mountains, with nearly 120 km of pistes to enjoy. The traditional-look town is a thriving base with sports shops, supermarkets, bass-fuelled clubs and bars, budget-conscious cafés, ambient restaurants and more. It’s got soul, that’s for sure.

Villars

There are several differing routes that’ll get you to Villars but cut your journey time slightly by following the 118km stretch that loops past Lausanne. Once you reach the Swiss village, four snowparks, three toboggan runs, 30km of hiking trails, 112km of slopes and more will be at your disposal. There’s a nursery for young skiers and a whopping choice of intermediate and advanced runs.

You’ll also have a cluster of bars and restaurants at your fingertips, where you can sample local specialties. Enjoy delicious fondue at Restaurant Vieux-Villars or potato pancakes at Auberge de Col de Soud.

Courmayeur

Venture 118km from Geneva Airport to the foot of Mont Blanc to discover this chic spa town. From bars to boutiques, it’s got a quintessentially Italian feel to it, which means pizza and wine nights are in order! The main street’s where it’s at if you want to explore classic Courmayeur to the fullest.

Courmayeur is linked to 41km of pistes by cable car – head up into the mountains to take on the mix of slopes. The sculpted couloirs of the red and black routes provide a few challenges, with moguls and jumps for a real test of your mettle!