With access to the French, Italian and even Swiss Alps, Lyon couldn’t be better placed for a week (or even more!) on the slopes! Now which way to go, that’s the real pickle! How about one of these seven skiing superstars?
Alpe d'Huez
One of France’s oldest resorts
Home to the longest black run in the world, Alpe d’Huez might seem intimidating but that’s only its icy exterior! The resort is actually best for intermediate skiers, boasting 68 red runs. But that’s not all – the pistes here are mostly wide, so they’ll be great for beginners too. Oh, and the après scene, a selection of restaurants and snow activities… the ski-son would be over by the time we finished this list of fantastic features!
Val Thorens
Up in the (blue) skies
Perched at the pinnacle of the Alps, Val Thorens is another sky-high village well-known among snow enthusiasts. Here, pristine powder and a season that stretches well into spring is guaranteed. It’s the highest ski resort in Europe after all! Do we even need to mention ski-in, ski-out accommodation or are you convinced already?
Courchevel
Sophistication on the slopes
In the pocket of the Three Valleys, sits cool Courchevel. Renowned for its royal ambiance, top-notch accommodation and Michelin dining, Courchevel is the winter destination for those who appreciate a touch of glamour with their skiing. With a range of meticulously maintained pistes and a fab après scene, this resort caters to those seeking a refined mountain retreat.
Les Deux Alpes
For fun-seeking families
If you’re a family of skiers who can’t imagine their winter without some powder, pistes and parks, we have just the spot for you! One of the biggest snow parks in Europe sets Les Deux Alpes apart when it comes to shredding in the French Alps. Here, the easier runs are located at the top of the mountain, so beginners and experts alike can enjoy the knockout views.
Méribel
The firm favourite
Nestled right in the middle of the Three Valleys, Méribel offers a cosy blend of alpine atmosphere, lively après and diverse skiing terrain. Try to whizz through as many runs as you can – there are over 300, so you could probably pick a different route every time. Plus, that means there’s plenty for all abilities too! And if you’re more excited about an Aperol at lunch, Méribel has you covered too – music in the bars can be heard long after you unclip your skis.
Val d'Isère-Tignes
The best of both worlds
Now if there’s a place you won’t be bored, it has to be the French favourites, Val d'Isère and Tignes. The legendary slopes of these linked resorts cover over 300km of terrain! Beginners can start their days at Tignes’ nursery slopes, before ascending to the maze of green and blue runs. Over in Val d'Isère, the tracks cater to intermediate skiers, although skilled superstars have to remember – major tournaments have been hosted here for a reason. Bit of a freestyle fanatic? Seek out the untouched snow in both resorts.
Posted: 3rd Jan 2024. Updated: 23rd Sept 2024.