France has long been the number one destination for British skiers. Its plethora of stunning Alpine landscapes, exceptional lift infrastructure, and a variety of on and off-piste experiences tailored to every type of skier do tick all the ski holiday boxes, but you could argue that so does Austria or Switzerland and even Italy, so why do we go skiing in France more than any other alpine destination?
The answer is that France does every kind of ski trip, and it does it superbly well. Whether you're planning a family getaway, indulging in luxury, or organizing a group adventure, France has something unique to offer. Here's why British skiers flock to the French Alps year after year.
The most family-friendly ski holidays are in France
Thanks to its well-equipped resorts and family-friendly amenities, France is a top choice for family ski holidays. Resorts such as La Plagne, Les Menuires, and Morzine cater specifically to families with beginner-friendly slopes, dedicated children's ski schools, and plenty of non-ski activities like ice skating, sledging, and even indoor water parks.
For example, La Plagne, part of the vast "Paradiski" area, has one of the biggest collections of accessible slopes, and the wide variety of green and blue runs is ideal for young or novice skiers. Families can also enjoy activities like dog sledding or snowshoeing in Morzine, adding variety to their holiday. Many hotels feature childcare facilities and family-focused accommodation in apartments, which can be booked with kitchens and larger living spaces, as well as even childcare and kids clubs, to ensure parents can enjoy some time on the slopes while their little ones are entertained in a safe environment.
Ultimate luxury on a ski holiday in France
For those seeking indulgence, France boasts some of the most luxurious ski destinations in the world. Take the bling Courchevel 1850, part of the Three Valleys ski area and synonymous with opulence, offering Michelin-starred restaurants like Le 1947 at Cheval Blanc, designer boutiques including Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and all sitting cheek by jowl with five-star chalets with private spas and even butler service.
Méribel charms its visitors with high-end chalets featuring infinity pools and catered dining services, while Val d’Isère impresses with its five-star hotels, such as Hôtel Les Barmes de l'Ours, with its exclusive wellness spa and fine dining. Luxury isn’t just in the accommodation – it’s also in the bespoke experiences, like heli-skiing, private ski lessons, and gourmet dining with spectacular Alpine views.
Snow-capped mountains in Val-d'Isère
Ludde Levin
Ski chalets and slopeside hotels in France
The convenience of staying in a traditional slopeside chalet or ski-in/ski-out hotel is undeniable, and France delivers on both fronts. Chalets like Sepia in Chamonix combine a cosy, picturesque setting with modern amenities like hot tubs, a home cinema, and a truly gourmet kitchen. These are ideal for small groups and families looking for privacy and comfort in this mecca of mountain towns.
Better still, slopeside hotels in both Avoriaz and Tignes provide unparalleled convenience with ski-from-the-door access to the slopes. With its car-free village, Avoriaz is particularly appealing for skiers who enjoy the ease of stepping out of their hotel and directly onto the slopes. Les Gets chalets have a wonderfully rustic yet luxurious feel, complete with roaring fireplaces, traditional wooden beams and Alpine decor, all adding to the magical winter atmosphere.
France is unbeatable for group ski holidays
France’s expansive ski areas and diverse terrain make it an ideal destination for group ski holidays, and Brit skiers vote with their feet. The enormous Three Valleys and Espace Killy regions are perfect for groups of mixed abilities, with everything from gentle nursery slopes to challenging black runs and off-piste adventures. Groups in Les Deux Alpes love the extensive terrain parks originally designed for snowboarders, while skiers enjoy the glacier runs at speeds that no one riding on just one plank can keep up with.
The après-ski scene in resorts like Val d’Isere and Val Thorens provides lively options for groups to unwind together, with wild bars like La Folie Douce, live music venues, and bustling nightclubs like Dick’s T-Bar all big on the wish-list for groups skiing and partying together. All French ski resorts have a selection of large catered chalets, which are the favourite of groups, and for those on a budget, apartments can be found that are big enough to accommodate groups, making it easier to stay together while enjoying shared living spaces and communal meals.
La Folie Douce in Val D'Isere
Really all-inclusive ski holidays in France
There’s no doubt that all-inclusive ski holidays are a stress-free way to enjoy the mountains, and France has the widest selection of this increasingly popular type of ski holiday. The majority of Club Med’s all-inclusive ski hotels are in France, with the ones in Les Arcs, La Plagne, Tignes and Alpe d’Huez providing comprehensive packages that cover accommodation, gourmet dining, ski passes, lessons, and even childcare. Les Arcs Panorama is particularly praised for its views (hence the name), modern rooms, and extensive wellness facilities.
At Alpe d’Huez, guests can enjoy the famously sunshine-filled slopes alongside family-friendly activities like tobogganing and indoor climbing. For beginners, all-inclusive packages often include group lessons tailored to the various skill levels, ensuring a smooth introduction to skiing without the hassle of booking separately. These ski-all-in packages are ideal for families and beginners who appreciate the simplicity of having everything taken care of and the opportunity to enjoy premium amenities without unexpected costs. Since Covid and the cost of living crunch, skiers and snowboarders still want to know their total budget before even leaving the UK, and an all-inclusive ski holiday provides precisely that.
Are all the best ski resorts in France?
The ski resorts of France are legendary because of their wide variety of experiences, accommodation and price points to suit every preference. From the high-altitude reliability of Val Thorens (the highest ski resort in Europe) to the charming village atmosphere of Samoëns and the upper-crust swagger of Courchevel 1850, there’s a perfect match for every skier.
A pot of fondue at La Grande Ourse
Airelles Val d'Isère
A skier walks through an opening in the mountain face in Val D'Isere
Are you a serious first-to-last-lift skier? Val Thorens is part of the Three Valleys, so you can clock up the kilometres all week long (600km, in fact) on guaranteed excellent snow conditions throughout the winter season.
Do you prefer it posher? Megève offers a refined and elegant experience, with horse-drawn carriage rides, boutique shopping, and fine dining, appealing to those who enjoy a touch of sophistication.
Just want to chill? Serre Chevalier has a famously laid-back vibe with sheltered tree-lined skiing, untouristy Alpine culture, and a focus on families and nature lovers.
Why France stands out
Beyond the fantastic skiing, France’s cultural richness, delicious mountain cuisine, and accessibility from the UK make it a perennial favourite. Can you imagine savouring a hearty tartiflette or raclette in a mountaintop restaurant overlooking the Alps or wandering through a quaint village market to pick up local cheeses and wines? The combination of world-class skiing and cultural experiences is unmatched, but add to this the ease of travelling via Eurostar to resorts like Les Arcs, short flights to Geneva or Lyon, or even driving from the UK, and it’s easy to see why British skiers keep returning to the French Alps. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or embarking on your first Alpine adventure, France offers the perfect setting for unforgettable memories.
