5 Skiing Destinations You Must Experience in the Highest Altitude Places in France

It’s difficult to beat mainland Europe when it comes to skiing. France, being the home of the famous Alps, is home to a variety of excellent resorts – many of them sited at high altitudes, which ensures generous snowfall, even outside of winter.

Let’s take a look at five of the best destinations for skiers in France. Whether you’re an experienced skier looking for a new challenge or a newcomer looking to learn the ropes, there’s a resort that’s right for you.

Val Thorens: The Highest Ski Resort in Europe

With the town itself sitting at around 2,300m, Van Thorens has an enviable reputation for reliable snowfall. It forms part of the Three Valleys, which collectively offer around 370 miles of ski slope to explore. This is the largest interconnected ski area in the world – and, thanks to improvements in infrastructure, it’s easier to navigate than ever before. The après-ski scene is quite respectable, too.

La Plagne: A Versatile Resort with High-Altitude Charm

At La Plagne, you can ski all the way up to 3,250m, and there’s a pleasing balance between easy and difficult slopes that makes it appealing for both beginners and experienced skiers alike. They’ve recently installed new lifts here, which makes it a great option for long ski holidays in France.

Tignes: Skiing on the Grande Motte Glacier

Among the most significant benefits of a skiing holiday in Tignes is the altitude. At its highest, the resort stretches up to 3,456m. Thus, the snow coverage is excellent. You’ll even be able to ski throughout the year, thanks largely to the Grande Motte glacier. Thus, this is a destination that’s perfect for both advanced skiers and snowboarders, as well as families who’d like to take time out from a summer break to enjoy some time in the snow. There are plenty of family-friendly amenities in the resort, too, including a swimming pool and a sports centre, complete with a golf simulator.

Alpe d’Huez: The Island of Sun

This little resort is a little more obscure than many of its big-name rivals, but it still sits at around 1,860m, and offers plenty of piste – including the infamous Sarenne black run, which, at 16km from end to end, is the longest black run anywhere in Europe. British tourists have been favouring this resort in recent years, citing its impressive family-friendly facilities. The resort has even earned the ‘Famille Plus’ label from the French Tourism authorities.

Les Deux Alpes: A Haven for Freestyle Skiers

If you prefer freestyle skiing, it’s difficult to beat Les Deux Alpes, which can be found in the French Department of Isère. This is the second oldest ski resort in the country (with Chamonix being the oldest), and it’s home to the largest skiable glacier on the continent. Much of the resort’s appeal stems from its snow parks, which are ideal for those looking to refine their skills in the air!