Skiing In The French Alps

photo: Bazgal, Wiki Creative Commons

If a family ski holiday is on the agenda, why not consider skiing in the French Alps?

The Alps, located along the French – Italian border, have a very well established and deserved reputation for some of the best snow skiing anywhere in the world. The Alps is a vast mountain range with the famous Mount Blanc – the highest peak in the Alps and reaching up to 15,700 feet (or almost 5,000 meters).

France has the largest number of well-known resorts in the Alps, and all offer a wide variety of trails and activities, from beginners to experts. With a wide range of housing options for large and small groups and breathtaking scenery, quality family ski holidays in the alps are  more affordable and convenient than you might think.

Savoy, in southeastern France, is the region best known for its outdoor activities and mega ski resorts. You only need to decide what you want from your ski holiday: do you like to be where all the action is, with lots of options? Or do you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere?

Timing will have a lot to do with what you’ll find in terms of crowds, so choose carefully. In general, avoid the big resorts like Le Plage and Les Arcs, especially during school holidays, unless you absolutely love crowds.

photo: Creativecommons, Fourinas42

A bonus to staying at one of the many villages located at La Plage or Les Arcs is they are connected via the Vanoise cable car. I think it would be fun to go resort hopping via the rail and this is also a great way to take in the ambiance of each place and the gorgeous scenery.

Aside from downhill skiing, there are trails and parks for snow boarders, runs of all levels from toddlers to extremely advanced skiers, and plenty of non-ski activities like bowling, movies, ice skating, spa treatments, snow shoeing, and of course great restaurants.

If it’s quiet you seek, La Rosière might be for you. It’s much smaller than the nearby mega-resorts of Les Arcs and La Plagne, making it a good choice for smaller groups and families with children who want a more relaxed vibe. The ski area is sunny but gets a lot of snow, and there are splendid panoramic views over the valley to the Les Arcs ski area. The slopes suit intermediates and beginners best and are linked on the north ridge to La Thuile in Italy. How cool to ski in France and Italy on the same day!

Read more about skiing in the French Alps and the best time to go.

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