What makes the French Alps Perfect for Skiing

For most British holidaymakers planning a skiing holiday, the French Alps are arguably the default destination. The region offers a range of attributes that makes it appealing to skiers of all levels of experience. Let's consider some of what makes skiing in this part of the world so appealing.

World-Class Ski Resorts

Of course, much of the appeal of the French Alps lies in the quality of the resorts you'll find there. These are established, mature resorts that offer a range of world-class facilities. The names of these resorts, Val d'Isère, Courchevel, and Chamonix, are known and recognised throughout the world.

Whether you're looking to stay in a chalet or a hotel, and tackle blue slopes or black ones, there's something in the region that will appeal. Skiing at Chamonix is particularly favoured by experienced skiers, thanks to its combination of amazing slopes and stunning views of the nearby Mont Blanc.

Diverse and Challenging Terrain

Arrive at the French Alps during winter, and you'll be confronted by mile after mile of gorgeous piste, catering to skiers of all levels. Certain resorts, like Les Trois Vallées, allow you to move from one resort to the next in search of novelty. If you're planning on travelling for more than a week, you'll have plenty of pistes to explore in these spaces.

Stunning Scenery and Natural Beauty

Much of the French Alps is covered with thick pine forests. You might find yourself sking between the trees on your way down, and marvelling up at glittering peaks and ragged cliffs. This kind of environment can be as inspiring as it is breathtaking, and it'll help to make your holiday that much more memorable.

Rich Cultural and Après-Ski Experience

So, how are you going to spend your time after the ski lifts close? In much of the French Alps, you'll have plenty of options to explore. There are amazing evening festivals, restaurants and bars, as well as one-off events. Sometimes, you might be able to enjoy night skiing on a floodlit piste, too.

Of course, this part of the world has been inhabited since long before skiing came here – and many of the villages have a rich history that's ripe for exploration.

If you're planning on pushing yourself on the slopes, however, you might prefer to put your feet up during the evenings, and recover ahead of the next day out on the mountain!