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2023's Best 11 French Ski Destinations

Discover the Best Ski Resorts in France

The Alps reign supreme as a legendary ski destination, with the French Savoie boasting some of the most renowned resorts. While the Pyrenees and other French ranges offer skiing, the Alps are where champions are made.

French Alpine resorts provide reliable snow, diverse skiing experiences, and charming Alpine villages. Whether you're seeking luxury or family-friendly accommodations, the French Alps have something for everyone, along with breathtaking mountain vistas.

Ratings of resorts can vary, as they cater to different skiing preferences. Our selection focuses on resorts with the best overall appeal to skiers. To avoid queues at popular tourist spots, consider booking tickets online.

Explore our curated list of the top ski resorts in France.

1. Courchevel

Part of the world's largest alpine ski domain, Les Trois Vallées, Courchevel offers 150 kilometers of alpine runs and access to 600 kilometers across three valleys. With 60 lifts, it caters to all skill levels and is known for its off-piste terrain and luxurious atmosphere, including Michelin-starred dining.

Official site: www.courchevel.com

2. Val d'Isere and Espace Killy

Val d'Isere, part of Espace Killy, offers 300 kilometers of terrain above 1,550 meters. Known for its Europe's largest snow-making capacity, it provides a long season with excellent conditions and a variety of trails for all levels, including superb off-piste skiing.

Official site: www.valdisere.com

3. Chamonix

Chamonix, located on the 4,807-meter Mont Blanc, is famous for its expert terrain and off-piste skiing. Despite its reputation, it offers slopes for all abilities, with some of the best snow conditions in the Alps.

Official site: www.chamonix.com

4. Les Arcs and La Plagne

Les Arcs and La Plagne form the Paradiski area, France's third-largest linked ski domain. La Plagne is family-friendly, while Les Arcs offers more challenging terrain for experienced skiers.

Official site: https://www.la-plagne.com/en

5. Morzine and Avoriaz in Portes du Soleil

Morzine and Avoriaz are part of the cross-border Portes du Soleil domain. Avoriaz is known for its terrain parks, while Morzine offers a mix of trails for all levels and a classic Alpine village atmosphere.

Official site: http://en.morzine-avoriaz.com

6. Meribel

Meribel, within Les Trois Vallées, is ideal for children and offers a range of terrain for all abilities. The village is one of the prettiest in the French Alps.

Official site: https://www.les3vallees.com/en/ski-resort/meribel/

7. Alpe d'Huez

Alpe d'Huez Grand Domaine combines six resorts with a diverse range of pistes and parks. It's popular with families and offers stunning views from Pic Blanc.

Official site: https://www.alpedhueznet.com/ski-area/

8. Serre Chevalier

Serre Chevalier features 250 kilometers of pistes and a relaxed atmosphere. It's known for its excellent tree skiing and off-piste terrain.

Official site: https://www.serre-chevalier.com/en/winter/

9. Les Deux Alpes

Les Deux Alpes offers gentle terrain at the top, year-round skiing on its glacier, and challenging off-piste terrain at La Grave.

Official site: www.les2alpes.com/en

10. La Clusaz

La Clusaz is a traditional Alpine town with a variety of runs, particularly suited for intermediate skiers.

Official site: www.laclusaz.com

11. Megeve

Megeve offers hundreds of kilometers of terrain for beginners and intermediates, with a charming medieval village atmosphere.

Official site: https://forfaits.megeve.com

Best Ski Resorts in France for Families

Resorts like Avoriaz, Megeve, La Plagne, and Meribel offer special features for families, such as ski-in-ski-out convenience, beginner-friendly slopes, and fun learning environments.

Ski Resorts in the Pyrenees Mountains

The Pyrenees offer good snow, varied terrain, and budget-friendly options. Resorts like Grand Tourmalet and Gourette provide a mix of slopes for all levels.

Trail Ratings in France

Trail ratings in France differ from North America, with blue corresponding to beginner and red to intermediate. Ratings are relative to each resort.

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