When wondering which ski resort to choose for your vacation, a variety of criteria come into play depending on individual preferences: which resort has the most slopes? Which is the best family-friendly ski resort? What’s the ideal destination for adventure and thrills? Which ski area is best suited for beginners, and so on?
For some travelers, however, the charm of the resort and the beauty of its landscapes are among the main criteria. Here, we have listed a selection of the most beautiful resorts in France to help you find a charming, traditionally mountainous, and breathtaking destination!
Nestled in the heart of the Alps, Megève is an iconic resort known for its unique charm. Its cobbled streets, lined with traditional wooden chalets and elegant shops, create a warm and authentic atmosphere.
In winter, the village transforms into a true fairy-tale setting, enhanced by Christmas lights and a picturesque market. It’s a magical experience for both children and adults!
The surrounding landscapes, dominated by Mont Blanc, offer breathtaking views, perfect for nature and photography enthusiasts. You can explore them by skiing, snowboarding, hiking, paragliding, or dog sledding.
Megève is also a place to discover refined cuisine and enjoy top-notch facilities while soaking in the traditional mountain atmosphere.
This renowned Savoie resort, Courchevel, combines elegance, variety, and authenticity. Comprised of several villages, it offers distinct atmospheres, from the cozy intimacy of Courchevel-Le-Praz to the luxury of Courchevel 1850. Visitors can enjoy traditional chalets alongside modern infrastructures integrated into the landscape.
The slopes wind through forests and valleys, offering spectacular views of the snow-covered peaks. With access to the XXL ski area of Les 3 Vallées (shared with Les Menuires, Val Thorens, Méribel, and Brides-les-Bains), skiers can enjoy hundreds of kilometers of slopes and well-equipped areas.
Whether skiing or simply enjoying the scenery, Courchevel is a destination where mountain charm meets luxury amenities.
Pralognan La Vanoise enchants with its intimate and wild character. Located in the heart of the Vanoise National Park, a bit off the beaten path, it is surrounded by imposing peaks, glaciers, and forests.
This authentic Alpine village has preserved its architectural heritage, with stone and wooden chalets reflecting the mountain spirit. Visitors seeking tranquility find an idyllic setting for a peaceful holiday, with options for winter hiking as well as alpine skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing on a modest ski area (around 25 kilometers of slopes).
It’s an ideal destination for a family vacation, though winter sports enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy.
Although part of one of France’s largest ski areas, Châtel remains primarily a charming village at 1,200 meters altitude. Its lovely wooden chalets, the Lac de Vonnes, and the surrounding preserved nature contribute to its appeal.
You can enjoy the scenery while exploring Châtel’s ski area of 43 slopes, or expand your adventure with a Portes du Soleil pass granting access to 12 resorts, including Les Gets and Saint Jean d’Aulps on one side, and Switzerland on the other.
The village also offers non-ski activities such as an ice rink, sledding areas, snowshoe trails, an aquatic center, and even hot-air balloon rides for a unique perspective on the mountains.
Perched on a vast plateau, La Toussuire captivates with its exceptional sunshine and 360-degree panoramic views. The surrounding wide-open spaces invite adventure and provide breathtaking vistas of nearby peaks, including the Aiguilles d’Arves.
The resort has preserved a harmonious architecture, blending traditional chalets with modern residences to meet tourist needs. Perfect for families and lovers of grand landscapes, La Toussuire offers activities ranging from skiing on the Sybelles ski area to snowshoeing, dog sledding, electric mountain biking, and indoor entertainment (cinema, bowling, Opinel museum).
Unlike many Pyrenean ski resorts built solely for winter tourism, Saint-Lary stands out for its charming village at 830 meters altitude, overlooked by the ski resort at 1,700 meters.
This Pyrenean village has retained its traditional architecture with stone houses and narrow streets. Surrounded by majestic mountains, it offers diverse landscapes from snowy forests to pristine peaks.
Saint-Lary also attracts visitors with its warm ambiance, enhanced by thermal baths, numerous local shops, and regular events. It is ideal for those seeking an authentic experience and a close connection with Pyrenean mountain culture.
Located in the heart of the Vosges Mountains, Gérardmer charms visitors with its unique setting between mountains and lake. Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Vosges”, this small town offers a peaceful and romantic atmosphere with diverse landscapes. In winter, the frozen lake and snow-covered surrounding forests create an enchanting scene.
Gérardmer is also known for its local craftsmanship and traditions, giving it a strong identity. Whether skiing or strolling, the resort provides an accessible mountain experience and is especially appealing for families.
In the heart of the Jura, Les Rousses is a resort full of character, known for its northern-style landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. Vast snowy expanses, fir forests, and views of Mont Blanc give it a special charm.
Its architecture differs from typical Savoie or Haute-Savoie villages, yet it blends harmoniously into the landscape without high-rise buildings.
Les Rousses is also a hub for Nordic skiing, with numerous trails through nature. The sense of escape and Scandinavian-like ambiance is guaranteed.
Our selection of the 8 most beautiful ski resorts in France doesn’t mean other resorts are less attractive. It all depends on what you’re looking for!
If you want to ski at high altitude, above 3,000 meters, consider Val Thorens, Alpe d’Huez, Tignes, Val d’Isère, La Plagne, and Les Arcs in the Portes du Soleil area.
If you seek convenience in transport, shops, and on-site activities, consider Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Bourg-Saint-Maurice.
For maximum sunshine on the slopes, choose resorts in the Southern Alps like Isola 2000, Orcières 1850, or Serre-Chevalier.
For challenging and technical slopes, choose Val d’Isère, Alpe d’Huez, Avoriaz, and similar resorts. Conversely, for a family-friendly stay, domains like La Plagne, Méribel, or Gourette offer plenty of green and blue slopes and beginner-friendly areas.
In short, thanks to the wide variety of mountain villages and ski areas in France, every traveler can find their ideal destination: from those seeking the charm of the mountains in winter, to those learning to ski gently, to skiers in search of thrills and unique experiences!