Skiing in France and the French Alps.
Skiing in the French Alps boasts some of the best ski resorts in France and the best ski conditions in the world.
You’ll find a diverse collection of ski resorts, connected to huge ski circuits; including the largest in the world, exceptional modern facilities, and a wealth of off-the-slope activities. Overall there is little to fault a skiing holiday in the French Alps.
Spectacular scenery and stunning mountain vistas are a large attraction to skiing in the French Alps, as well as experiencing the country’s typical charm and character.
Of course being in France also means delicious world-famous cuisine found in the many mountain huts and village restaurants.
The Best Ski Resorts in France.
France’s Skiing.
The French Alps are found on the south west of the country. Having borders with Switzerland and Italy. It is possible to ski across borders in many resorts, and there is certainly culinary and cultural crossover.
There is also some skiing on the France:Spain border in the Pyrennes, but nothing to compare with skiing in the French Alps.
From mountain villages that have become picture perfect ski resorts with authentic chalet style properties. To large purpose built ski resorts, high in the mountains, offering function over charm. The French Alps has it all.
The proximity of France to the UK means that virtually every UK based skier has visited the French Alps. Most learning to ski on their gentle green slopes, not found in many other countries.
Most ski holiday companies offer great value ski packages to France, usually landing in Geneva, Lyon or Chambery airport. Transfers to resort can be long, due to the sheer volume of coach traffic navigating the mountain roads each Saturday. Of course, there is also the option to drive, taking a ferry or Eurostar adds at least a day to each end of your holiday, but does give you greater flexibility and choice.
The best ski resorts in France are also the most popular ski resorts in France. Do think carefully about where and when you book to avoid the worst of the ‘Disney-line’ style queuing. Of course being the most popular ski resorts in France means they also have the funding to ensure their ski infrastructure is among the best and quickest in the World.
Overview of France.
- Capital: Paris, in the north-centre.
- Land area: 633k sq km.
- Population: 69 million.
- Telephone: The international dialing code is +33.
- Mobile/Data: ; Orange, SFR, Bouygues and Free. It is in the EU roaming zone.
- Time: Central Europe Time Zone (CET), consistently 1 hour ahead of the UK.
- Languages: French. In ski resorts you’ll find hot spots of German and Italian and in most resorts you’ll find excellent English spoken.
- Driving: On the right. UK sticker, hi-vis jackets, headlight deflectors, warning triangle and carrying your documents is mandatory. Winter tyres or chains are mountain law from November to March.
- Visas: Most tourists can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. France is in the Schengen area.
- Currency: The Euro, credit and debit cards are as widely accepted as in any other European country.
- Tipping: A 15% service charge is included in menu prices, Staff are paid a full living wage. A small cash tip is a nice, voluntary gesture for good service.
