Ski resort in france name. France ski resorts

Map of Ski Resorts in France with Landmarks

Alps on France map

Map of French Alps detailed

French Alps Map

The French Alps on the world map are located in the southeast of the country. This chain is part of the Western Alps. A geographical map of the French Alps will show that the total length of the uplands reaches 330 km. Geographically, the chain is divided into southern and northern. A detailed map of the French Alps will show that there are mountain-glacial uplands in the north. The highest point of the region is the Mont Blanc peak, which reaches over 4.8 km. The southern part of the chain, as the map of the French Alps will show, belongs to the Mediterranean landscape type. The proximity to the sea determines the corresponding climate.

The map of the French Alps with attractions contains both unique natural areas and architectural monuments located in resort cities. Of course, the main industry in the region is ski tourism. The map of the French Alps in Russian from Arrivo will help you navigate the resorts and slopes.

The vast majority of French ski resorts are located in the Rhone-Alpes region... Of course, there are not as many of them as, say, in Austria. And they are numbered only in the amount of 21 objects: Morzine, Le Geet, Avoria, Saint-Gervais, Megeve, Brides-les-Bains, La Plagne, La Rosienne, Les Sete-Lot, Les Arcs, Tignes, Val d'Isere, Courchevel, Méribel, Les Menuires, Val Thorens, La Tania, Alpe d'Euze, Les Dez Alpes and Villars de Lans.

In addition, 4 more complexes are located on the territory of northern Provence: Serre-Chevalier, Montgenevre, Rizoul / Vars, Isola-2000. The tourist centers presented in these enumerations were given in accordance with their location from north to south and from east to west.

The resorts have both gentle and rather steep slopes. And rest in these places only benefits from that. The mesmerizing beauty of the Alpine nature, the slopes available for skiing skiers of all skill levels - all this makes France one of the most attractive countries in the world in terms of mountain sports tourism.

Features of transport communication

Transport links are built in such a way that simultaneously all ski resorts in France, on the map marked on a relatively small area of \u200b\u200bits territory are served immediately three international airports - Lyon, Chambery and Grenoble... However, it is most convenient to get to Le Gets, Avoria and Morzine from the Geneva airport, that is, from the territory of the neighboring state. However, there are absolutely no difficulties with crossing the border within the European Union. After all, the access system between the countries that make up it is oversimplified.

Among the main highways connecting nearby airports and directly indicated objects of tourist infrastructure, one should highlight highway E70 (Lyon - Bourguin-Jalleu - Chambery - Rivoli - Turin), E711 (Bourguin-Jalleux - Grenoble), E712 (Grenoble - Chambery - Annecy - Geneva), E21 (Lyon - Bellegarde-sur-Valserine - Geneva). All other roads are of secondary importance. But precisely because of their existence ski resorts in Francewhich, judging by on the map, are very close to each other, have the opportunity to open their doors wide in front of numerous guests.

Concerning railway messages, then priority should be given here lyon junction... Even Geneva, which is, in fact, the capital of another state, does not have such a powerful and ramified transport system that this city possesses. Chambery and Grenoble can also delight tourists with stations. However, they, of course, do not have such a significant value.

Nevertheless, Lyon is inferior to its aforementioned French counterparts and even Geneva in one very important indicator - it is farthest from the represented ski resorts. Moreover, it is likely that when moving from a given city to a given target, you will have to make transfers at stations such as Macon and all the same Grenoble.

From abroad it will be faster

Studying map of ski resorts in France, we can come to the conclusion that it is still more convenient to get to some of them from the territory of neighboring states, namely, Switzerland and Italy. Judge for yourself, just above it was said that it is best to get to the three northernmost complexes from Geneva airport. At the same time, Provencal resorts and sports and tourist centers in the south of the Rhône-Alpes region can be reached from Turin.

The value of information about the location of ski resorts in France on the map

The information provided is very practical. Of course, among other things, it’s just so interesting, but where exactly is this or that resort, which major cities are closest to it. But when organizing any trip, you always need to think over the best ways to achieve your goal.

So, if you want to ride, say, on the slopes of Avoria or Le Jay, then you shouldn't fly to Lyon. It is enough to limit yourself to a flight to Geneva, and there either by a ferry across the lake, or by rail, or by motor transport along the highway - in a word, it's just a stone's throw!

Ski resorts in France are considered one of the most modern not only in Europe, but throughout the world. The French Alps open up magnificent landscapes to tourists, and skiing on the equipped tracks is breathtaking. Fans of downhill skiing, snowboarding, as well as bobsleigh and other types of winter sports come here.

All tracks are divided into categories, depending on the difficulty level. Some of them will be the most comfortable for beginners, while others will appeal to professionals. Sports competitions are often held on the local tracks, and the Olympics have also been held here three times. 200 resorts are interconnected so that every traveler finds the perfect one for themselves.

Skiing on plains or steep slopes takes place on trails that are illuminated at night. Modern ski lifts and comfortable hotels with a high level of service await tourists in.

Ski season in the French Alps

In the mountainous region of France, the ski season begins in February. It is during this period of the year that the weather is clear here.

  • The first snow covers the mountain slopes in November. At this time, from six to eighty centimeters of precipitation falls.
  • In December, the mountain peaks (at an altitude of 1.5 km) are covered with 90-120 cm of precipitation.
  • In January, this figure reaches 140-200.
  • In February, the ground is covered with 160-240 centimeters of snow.
  • And from March to April, the snow cover stays at the level of 140-220 cm.

There are also areas where the volume of snow can exceed four meters. Melting of precipitation begins in the second half of May.

Pricing policy for ski resorts in France

More than two hundred lifts and about 600 kilometers of marked trails await tourists in the Three Valleys region. Even a long stay at the resort does not involve repeating the routes, which impresses professional skiers. To relax in the Val Thorens resort in a 3 * hotel, tourists will have to pay about 750 euros for one week, and accommodation in a four-star hotel will cost two hundred euros more.

The most famous French ski resort, Courchevel, offers accommodation in the most luxurious hotels. Also, elite restaurants and boutiques are open here. For a week of rest in a three-star hotel, tourists will spend about 700 euros, in a 4 * hotel - 1300 euros, and in a 5-star hotel - about 2150 euros, per person.

More than three hundred kilometers of modern trails await travelers at the highest mountain resorts of Tignes and Val d'Isere. The snow cover here lasts all season. A week of rest for one person in a 2 * hotel will cost 720 euros, only 10 euros more expensive for a room in a hotel 3 *. For accommodation in a four-star hotel, they will ask for about 850 euros, and in a 5 * hotel - 1100 euros.

The best winter resorts in France

Among the most impressive resorts in France are the following Top 7 best:

  1. Meribel


At the heart of the Three Valleys ski system is this stunning resort. Excellent trails, equipped lifts and recreation sites will give tourists a pleasant pastime. This resort is deservedly called the "pearl" of recreation areas for skiers and snowboarders.

Original itineraries link the small town of Meribel, Meribel Village and Mottaret. There are 150 kilometers of trails for recreation and skiing. For beginners, there are 8 "green" routes open here. Trails for those with basic skiing skills are marked with blue markings. Twenty-three "red" slopes are suitable for experienced skiers, and nine slopes marked in black will appeal to extreme skiers.

This fabulous location features sunny slopes where warm rays keep skiers warm during the day. The resort has fifteen gondola lifts, as well as chair lifts and 14 drag lifts. To keep the snow cover even, 685 snow installations are involved.

Walking along the equipped paths, flying on a hang glider, traveling by cable car, a bowling alley, an ice rink and a swimming pool, as well as sports shops and many cozy catering establishments - all this awaits guests of the Meribel resort.


This tourist resort is equipped with comfortable lifts and cozy hotels for travelers. This place is open to tourists all year round, and invites outdoor enthusiasts to go skiing or snowboarding in winter, as well as enjoy the beautiful scenery at any time of the year.

In addition to snowboarding and downhill skiing, they offer sports such as telemark or squall riding. Snow remains on the tops of the mountains all year round. There are three hundred kilometers of modern slopes and one hundred high-speed lifts (including a funicular with sitting cabins). This resort is visited by both beginners and professional athletes. Competitions are often held here.

  1. Val Thorens


This resort is considered the most democratic in France. It can be easily reached from many cities by plane or train. The varied recreation includes leisure activities and winter sports. Most of the hotels here have access to the ski lifts. The overhead lift can transport 150 people at the same time. For the convenience of skiers and snowboarders, the slopes are equipped with avalanche systems. Snow cannons and other snowmaking systems provide excellent coverage throughout the season, which starts in November and ends in May.

The local snowboard parks are distinguished by the presence of jumps, quarter-pipes, half-pipes and other ski areas where competitions are held. Val Thorens has thirty-one lifts and sixty-six marked trails, with a total length of 140 kilometers. Relief descents, challenging trails or a gentle area at the foot of the mountain for beginners - all this will appeal to athletes of all levels.

There is a ski school for adults and children. Also, the resort has an aquaclub (with a pool and a sauna), tennis courts, squash and volleyball zones, a climbing wall, a rollerdrome, gyms and even a paragliding club. Mini-clubs and Fun Park are organized here especially for children, where there is a pool filled with balls, slides for kids, trampolines and an inflatable palace. Among other things, a large variety of cafes, restaurants, bars, discos and nightclubs are open here.

  1. Chamonix


This mountain valley will give tourists an unforgettable experience. A fourteen-kilometer natural glacier and a twenty-kilometer ski slope are connected here. The snow cover is preserved here from December to May. Forty-seven lifts and seventy-eight tracks, with a total length of 140 kilometers, will conquer any skier or snowboarder.

In addition to boarding or skiing, you can go for a snowshoeing, snowmobiling or dog sled ride to the icy summit. Also, tourists are offered hang gliding and helicopter flights. Among other things, there is a bowling alley, an ice rink, a swimming pool, dance floors, bars and restaurants where you can have fun.

  1. Courchevel


The most beautiful and famous resort is considered one of the most presentable French regions. This elite holiday destination is distinguished by a developed infrastructure, amazing natural resources, as well as a large number of chic restaurants, hotels and entertainment venues, from the windows of which you can see the peak of the famous Mont Blanc mountain.

Here you can go ice skating and go bowling, squash or tennis. A large selection of trails for beginners, as well as extreme routes, are popular with snowboarders and skiers. Sixty-two lifts are open here, and the length of the multi-level tracks is one hundred and fifty kilometers.

  1. Les Arcs


This popular resort is located in the province of Savoy. Several villages, connected to each other, are located on different levels. A large number of lifts (fifty-four in total), professional equipment, as well as tracks with a total length of about 420 kilometers impress tourists. Slopes of all levels are equipped here. You can ride here from December to the end of April.

Professionals practice off-piste skiing on the slopes of the resort. All slopes are illuminated at night. Cross-country trails will appeal to skiers. The snowboard park amazes with the number of jumps and tricks, as well as a half-pipe and a border cross track. There are schools for beginner skiers and children.

Among other things, you can visit an ice cave or a museum, as well as go hang-gliding, ride horses or dog sleds, play paintball, relax in the sauna, swimming pool or solarium.

  1. Megeve


The very "heart" of the Alps at the foot of Mont Blanc can be seen by visiting this fashionable resort. This place is very prestigious, so hotel rooms are booked here in advance. A huge number of a wide variety of entertainment, as well as unforgettable skiing or snowboarding await tourists here. The length of ski trails is 440 kilometers. A multifaceted vacation will appeal to connoisseurs of luxury.

Answers to frequently asked questions from readers

What is the temperature in French ski resorts in winter?

The Alpine mountains are famous for their wonderful weather all year round. The temperature is pleasant even in winter. The following temperature indicators are characteristic for the entire season:

  • november and March: from 0 to -2 ⁰С;
  • december and February: from -2 to -4 ⁰С;
  • january: from -5 to -7 ⁰С (very rarely -10 ⁰С);
  • april: from +2 to +4 ⁰С.

Which resorts are best to visit with children?

Anyone who prefers family vacations should go to resorts where there are children's ski schools, mini-clubs, kindergartens and amusement parks. Such options will include resorts such as:

  • Les Arcs;
  • La Plagne;
  • Avoriaz;
  • Val Thorens;
  • Samoen.

Which of the resorts are distinguished by the presence of thermal springs?

Among the French mountain resorts that will allow you to combine skiing and spa recreation, the following stand out:

  • Breed Le Ben. The large city SPA center invites everyone to relax and improve the body immediately after skiing.
  • Megeve. Near the resort there is the Saint Gervais les Bains thermal park. Tourists will be able to improve their health thanks to the local hot mineral springs.

An extraordinary experience of enchanting mountains and the French lifestyle awaits tourists here. It is worth heading here for the thrill and excitement of gazing at the scenery to ensure you get the most amazing skiing experience.

Ski regions

The French Alps (the Rhône-Alpes region and the Alps department) are the highest mountains in Western Europe, the ski resorts of France are the world's largest winter sports center: 380 ski stations, the largest number of ski lifts in the world (3900!) And the shortest queues for them ... This is the largest area for skiing and the widest choice of trails, the highest peak in Western Europe, Mont Blanc (4807 m), stable weather, plenty of sun, guaranteed snow cover from early December to mid-May, plus the possibility of skiing in summer. The most popular resorts in the region are Chamonix, Courchevel, Val d'Isere, Tignes, Val Thorens, Les Deux Alpes, La Plagne, Megeve, Meribel and others. 175 resorts are equipped with snow cannons. 230 sports centers offer slopes for flat skiing ...

In addition to the famous alpine resorts, France has a huge set of excellent skiing resorts, scattered in abundance throughout the mountain ranges of the country. Most often these are small mountain villages, used as local recreation places and by and large not able to compete with the Alps. But on the other hand, such small sports centers are very attractive both as summer mountain climatic and balneological resorts, and as recreation areas for lovers of flat skiing, paragliding, rock climbing and hiking. Usually located in very picturesque places near major roads, on weekends and holidays they often gather no less guests than the famous alpine centers, but the price level here is usually much lower.

One of the most interesting and intensively developing ski resorts are Pyrenees.

IN Central massif due to its natural and climatic characteristics, a "clean" ski vacation is unlikely. However, for the same reason, this area is considered one of the best places in France for flat skiing, initial training in skiing and snowboarding, hiking and equestrian routes, and its amazing nature allows you to relax here at any time of the year.

Low Vosges widely renowned as a great destination for cross-country and flat skiing.

Surprisingly, even a hot Mediterranean island Corsica has a whole network of its own mountain centers. The relief of the island and the abundance of zones with its own microclimate allow skiing from December (more often from mid-January) to March-April.

Climate

The first snow in the French Alps falls in late November and lasts until mid-May. Due to the mild climate, even in winter in valleys at an altitude of about 1,500 m, the temperature does not drop below -10 ° C. The most favorable time for skiing begins in mid-February, when stable sunny weather sets in. The height of the snow cover, depending on the height of the terrain, ranges from 0.7 to 4 meters.

Average monthly air temperature at an altitude of about 1500 m (° C): in November 0 ..- 2, in December -2 ..- 4, in January -5 ..- 7, in February -2 ..- 4, in March 0 ..- 2, in April +2 .. + 4.

The average height of snow cover at an altitude of about 1500 m (cm): in November 6-80, in December 90-120, in January 140-200, in February 160-220, in March 160-240, in April 140-220.

Subscription

In France, you can buy a pass for half a day, for a day, for two, etc. You can purchase both a general ski pass for the entire ski area, and a separate one for each valley. It is more convenient and profitable to buy a ski pass for the entire ski area at once. Ski-pass for children under 5 years old and for adults over 72 years old is free, there are special rates for adults over 60 years old. There are also special family rates.

The Olympic ski area includes Three Valleys, Espace Killy, Paradiski. A subscription for one of the zones (minimum 6 days) entitles you to one day of skiing in one of the others (during the validity of the subscription).

Equipment rental

Ski and snowboard equipment rental is organized in almost all sports shops. There are also items for servicing inventory: edge sharpening, lubrication, etc. Equipment for athletes is selected individually: depending on weight, height and level of skiing.

Ski schools

There are several levels of training - for beginners, advanced training, for professionals, etc. If you combine the booking of lessons at ski schools with the purchase of a ski-pass, it will be cheaper. Special discounts are available for families of 3-4 people. During the Christmas (Catholic) holidays, when booking a lesson for one adult - one child is taught free of charge.

- these names are known not only to avid skiers or snowboarders, but also to people far from sports. In this article, we will tell you about the best resorts in France, where in winter it is pleasant not only to relax, but to ride with the breeze.

Chamonix, overlooking Mont Blanc

Chamonix is \u200b\u200blocated in a beautiful location overlooking the highest peak in Western Europe - Mont Blanc. Height above sea level - 1035 meters. Chamonix is \u200b\u200ba Mecca for mountaineers in summer and skiers in winter.

In addition, the Mer de Glace Nature Reserve (Ice Sea) is nearby, one of the most visited in the world.

Near Chamonix, you will find a bunch of not only skiing activities. You can go to the town of Annecy, climb Mont Blanc by train, arrange walks in the caves and a lot more.

Three Valleys (Les Trois Vallées) - the largest ski resort

Three Valleys (or le Trois Valais) is a huge resort that combines several bases at once in the Vanoise mountain range. This includes:

  • Courchevel (Courchevel - hotels on this link),
  • Méribel (hotels),
  • Le Menuires (Les Ménuires - hotels),
  • Val Thorens -
  • La Tania (hotels),
  • Brides (hotels)
  • and Orelle (Orelle - Hotel Deals).

Avoriaz - tranquility

Located at an altitude of 1,800 meters above sea level, Avoriaz is a modern resort in the heart of Portes du Soleil. Between the forest and the mountains, the village, completely closed to cars, fits perfectly into the alpine nature. After skiing on the Portes du Soleil ski slopes (total length 650 km), you can visit the Aquariaz, a hot spring center with a temperature of 29 ° C.

Although you won't see a single car in Avoriaz, there are other modes of transport. The proximity of the resort to nature is its main advantage.

The official website of the resort Avoriaz: www.avoriaz.com

Les 2 Alpes - the largest snow park

In the Oisans Mountains, on the border between the Southern and Northern Alps, lies the dynamic resort of Les 2 Alpes. It is the largest ski chain in Europe. The resort is located at 3600 m above sea level. So there is snow here almost all year round, so skiers can be found here both in winter and in summer.

The station also continues to develop its snow park: a large playground, snow tube, wall, beginner's slide area and large pillows (huge mattress 15 m) are installed at the bottom of the slopes.

Chamrousse - a real Olympic village

On the southern edge of the Belledonne mountain range is the Chamrousse resort, built in a forest. It offers an exceptional view of the Grenoble Valley. The station was used during the 1968 Winter Olympics. Many future Olympic champions have competed or trained here.

Sharmus Resort Official Website: www.chamrousse.com

Saint-Dalmas le Selvage - cross-country skiing

Saint-Dalma-le-Selvage is the highest village in the Alpes-Maritimes (1347 m - 2916 m). The place is an ideal resort for cross-country skiers. In the heart of nature with untouched landscapes such as the Braïssa Isthmus (2599 m), Mount Aunos (2514 m), the Karl Cross (2529 m), the Moutière Isthmus (2454 m), the Gialorgues ice waterfall, you must find your happiness.

An excellent place for snowboarding.

The official website of the resort of Saint-Dalmas-les-Selvage: hiver.saintdalmasleselvage.com

Le Sauze - family resort

A ski resort located in the Ubaye Valley. Soz has become famous as a family resort. In addition to the joy of skiing, don't miss a tour of Igloo Inuksuk Village, a real village with six igloos and Inuit traditions!

Official website of the resort Le Sauze: www.sauze.com

Megève - the most exclusive resort

Megève has retained its authentic mountain village charm. Surrounded by three gently sloping mountain ranges and green forests, stands a fourteenth century medieval village with luxury shops, cobbled streets, a unique atmosphere and, of course, wonderful trails.

It is a fashionable resort where chalets, hotels and restaurants compete tirelessly for their prestige.

The official website of the resort of Megeve: www.megeve.com

Serre-Chevalier - the sunniest resort

It is one of the largest ski resorts in the Alps with 250 km of ski slopes. Located at an altitude of 1200 to 2800 m above sea level. At the foot of the highest peaks is the sun-drenched Ecrins National Park.

Serre Chevalier is one of the sunniest places in the Alps, with the sun shining 300 days a year!

Serre-Chevalier official website: www.serre-chevalier.com

Enjoy your holiday in the French Alps!