Why Skiing in France Should Be on Your Holiday Wish List – Before the old ski-hacks and ex-seasonaires complain that I’m stating the obvious here about ski holidays in France, let me introduce this article by making a plea to the already-initiated, to understand what it is and what it is not.
My intended audience is not someone who already knows the immeasurable joys of a week’s vacation skiing in the French Alps. Here I want to try to explain to everyone else, those who have never felt the thrill of the high mountains, exactly why this is the thing that’s missing in your life.
Because, when winter rolls in, so does the allure of a snowy escape.
For the initiated, who know a perfect winter adventure means hitting the slopes and embracing the thrill of skiing, they also know this is not a vacation reserved purely for the sporty or super-outdoorsy. For-sure many are addicted to the adrenaline rush of carving downhill in a gang of friends or with the kids, but the serenity of snow-covered landscapes is as much, if not more, of a draw – France skiing holidays are a unique blend of exhilaration and tranquillity – the yin and yang which combine to create a zen-like week in the most dramatic landscapes on earth.
When it comes to choosing the ideal skiing destination, France stands out as one of the world’s most popular destinations for good reason. Women Talking looks at why a ski holiday in France creates an unforgettable experience, for beginners and experts alike.
What Makes A Ski Holiday So Thrilling?
Having turned my hand to skiing on just the one occasion, I’m afraid I have to start with the well-worn cliché that skiing in France certainly offers something for everyone. Whether you get your kicks from the epic landscapes and time out in the alpine wilderness, or are looking for heart-pounding excitement, and a full-body workout, here’s why people can’t get enough of the slopes:
- A Mental Escape: Skiing requires focus, which makes it a great mental escape from normal workaday stresses. When you’re navigating down a slope, you’re in the moment, your mind freed from everyday worries. The adrenaline, combined with the joy of each run, leaves you feeling refreshed – every new lift ride back up is a moment to revel in and reflect on the last beautiful descent accomplished.
- The Rush of Speed and Control: There’s nothing like the thrill of schussing down a mountain at speed, the wind on your face and the snow flying around you. It’s a sport that lets you explore your limits and improve your skills. As you gain confidence and control, you can take on steeper slopes and tighter turns for gradually more added challenge, and every level-up unlocks new parts of the mountain to explore and new vistas.
- Natural Beauty and Fresh Air: Skiing to me feels spiritual. It allows you to immerse yourself in nature completely. Personally, standing at the top of a mountain with breathtaking views stretching for miles is something you cannot experience in a picture book – it’s visceral – you must be there and feel it. In France, ski resorts are all located in areas with stunning alpine landscapes, charming villages, and crystal-clear skies. You get to experience all this beauty up close and breathe in fresh, crisp mountain air.
- A Full-Body Workout: Skiing is not only exhilarating but also an excellent workout. It engages multiple muscle groups, from your legs and core to your arms, offering a fun way to stay active even in winter. Better still, the intensity is entirely controlled by you and how you’re feeling at any given moment. Any slope can be skied as relaxed and cruisy, or full throttle as you like. My approach, of relaxedly carving between cappuccino stops, feels chilled and is an incredibly sociable way to ski, chat and generally hang out with besties and family… but it still burns hundreds of calories without noticing. By the end of the day, I’ve always earned that fab fondue or tempting tartiflette!
France is renowned for its world-class ski resorts, so I guess it’s no surprise it’s the go-to destination for winter sports enthusiasts from all around the world. The French alps have an incredible variety of ski resorts, each with unique characteristics and terrain. From the challenging runs of Chamonix and the expansive Three Valleys favourites like Val Thorens and Courchevel, to family-friendly resorts like La Plagne, dare I say it again, there’s something for everyone. France is ideal for both seasoned skiers looking for demanding pistes and beginners eager to learn.
For après-ski from relaxed and charming to lively and even pretty wild, it’s hard to beat a ski holiday in France. For foodies, the local cuisines of France’s authentic old mountain towns take gastronomy to another level. After a day on the slopes, my absolute favourite bookend to the day is to unwind with friends over mulled wine, indulge in the local cheese fondue, or maybe warm up with rich French hot chocolate. Many resorts offer a vibrant après-ski scene with bars, cafes, and restaurants that blend French hospitality with mountain charm – think La Folie Douce in Val d’Isere or Le Rond Pont (‘the Ronnie) in Meribel if you want to dance at some of the most famous. After the après (does ‘after the after’ even make sense?) French cuisine is the absolute tastiest way to refuel after a thigh burning day on the slopes (or dancing on the tables), you’re guaranteed to find high-quality dishes in whatever form takes your fancy, from rustic mountain fare to gourmet dinners. France ski holidays are the best place to tuck into a rich raclette and carb-tastic staples bud did you know that Courchevel for example has the highest number of Michelin star restaurants outside of Paris?!
Perhaps the biggest appeal for ski vacations in the French region of the alps, is the ease of travel and accessibility. France’s ski resorts are highly accessible from all parts of Europe especially from the major airport hubs. Most are located just a few hours from the major skiing airports of Geneva, Lyon, and Grenoble, so travel is easy and convenient. For international travellers, major airports connect to shuttle services that can whisk you straight to your chosen resort without hassle.
Tips for Planning Your Ski Trip to France
- Choose the Right Resort: Research the resorts carefully to find one that fits your skill level and preferences. Popular options with really big ski domains include Val d’Isère, Chamonix, Méribel, and Les Arcs, but consider somewhere smaller if you’re a beginner, as all the extras like lift pass and ski school are likely to be a bit cheaper.
- Book Early for the Best Deals: Skiing in France is popular, so booking accommodation and ski passes in advance can help you secure better rates. Earlybird rates are generally on offer from the winter before, and the smartest regulars often book next winter as soon as they get back from this year’s ski holiday.
- Dress in Layers: This one caught me out! Mountain weather can change quickly, so wearing multiple layers was a game-changer, because allows you to adjust to varying conditions and stay comfortable.
- Take Lessons if You’re New: Do not let your friends or family members try to teach you to ski or snowboard! Almost all of the big French ski resorts offer English-speaking instructors, so even beginners can easily get started and learn the basics safely.
If I’ve convinced even one more reader to give it a go, I’ll be satisfied – if you’re looking for an immersive experience in breathtaking nature, luxurious relaxation, and thrilling adventure France could be your answer! So, get your nearest and dearest onboard – book a ski hotel or catered chalet, heck even go self-catering if you need to mind the pennies… just make sure you get out there. I promise it will be a winter adventure you’ll never forget.
See you on the slopes or send me pics when you get back!
Poppy Watt