French skiers. Map of France ski resorts and routes of communication with them. What is the temperature in the winter at French ski resorts

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 lines . This is the largest area for skiing and the widest range of slopes, the highest peak in Western Europe Mont Blanc (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 trails for flat skis .

In addition to the famous alpine resorts, France has a huge set of beautiful places for skiing, abundantly scattered throughout the mountain systems of the country. Most often these are small mountain villages, used as local places of rest and, by and large, not able to compete with the Alps. But such small sports centers are very attractive both as summer mountain climatic and balneological resorts, and as recreation areas for lovers of flat skis, paragliding, rock climbing and hiking excursions. Usually located in very picturesque places near major roads, on weekends and holidays they often collect 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 centers of ski holidays are Pyrenees.

AT Central array   due to its climatic features, 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 skiing and snowboarding, hiking and horseback riding, and its amazing nature allows you to relax here at any time of the year.

Low Vosges widely known as a great place for fans of flat skis and cross-country.

Surprisingly, even a hot Mediterranean island Corsica   It has a whole network of its own mountain centers. The relief of the island and the abundance of zones with its own microclimate make it possible to ski from December (usually 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 the valleys at an altitude of about 1,500 m, the temperature does not fall below -10 ° C. The most favorable time for skiing begins in mid-February, when stable sunny weather is set. The height of the snow cover, depending on the height of the terrain, ranges from 0.7 to 4 meters.

The 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 snow depth at an altitude of about 1,500 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 subscription for half a day, a day, two, etc. You can purchase both a general subscription for the entire ski area, and a separate one for each valley. It is more convenient and profitable to buy a subscription immediately to the entire ski area. Ski-pass for children under 5 years old and for adults over 72 years old - free of charge, special rates are provided for adults over 60 years old. There are also special family rates.

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

  Equipment rental

Ski and snowboard equipment rental is available at almost all sports stores. There are also items for maintenance of equipment: sharpening edges, lubrication, etc. Equipment for athletes is selected individually: depending on weight, height and level of riding.

  Ski schools

There are several levels of training - for beginners, advanced training, for professionals, etc. If you combine ski lessons booking with ski-pass tickets, it’s cheaper. Special discounts are provided for families of 3-4 people. On Christmas (Catholic) holidays, when booking a lesson per adult, one child learns for free.

Ski resorts in France are not the most famous attraction of the Fifth Republic for us.

Often, the country is associated primarily with the Eiffel Tower, but not with the snowy peaks and mountain slopes.

Although every year several million people prefer cozy gatherings in the city to outdoor activities that they can find in the French Alps.

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The best ski resorts in France - list and description

One undoubted advantage is the very long ski season, which lasts as much as 7 months a year - from November to May. At the same time, the weather is usually very stable and has a lot of snow and sun. A wide choice of the level of relaxation remains attractive: from budget options in the form of hostels to incredibly expensive luxury apartments.

Interesting fact:   France has the highest mountains of Western Europe, the most famous point of which is Mont Blanc

Thanks to this, the French Alps are literally strewn with numerous slopes of any complexity, lifts and ski stations. Ski resorts have a record number of lifts - about 3900. The level of European service remains unchanged.

But there are some of the most famous and popular ski resorts in France that are always crowded with tourists: Courchevel, Chamonix, Val Thorens, Meribel, La Plagne, Megeve.

Courchevel

Some of them are located in a wonderful place called Three Valleys. Here in 1992 the Olympics was held, after which this ski region became the most visited in France. Several resorts are located in this area, but the most expensive is the famous Courchevel.

  It was opened back in 1946, and has since become a resting place for the “rich and famous."   In total there are 4 levels that are located at different heights. He earned his title as the most fashionable ski center due to the huge number of the most luxurious hotels, entertainment centers of the highest class and the best service. This is the pride of social life in France.

Service is almost in first place, therefore, if the hotel is located not in the center, then the hotels have special buses that can take you to the desired place and back. It even has its own airport. Well, of course, all this splendor surrounded by beautiful mountain peaks, pistes of varying complexity and ice arenas. Some ski slopes start right at the door.

Among the additional entertainment, in addition to ski slopes, there is the opportunity to take a helicopter tour, parachute jump or hang glider. For ardent sports enthusiasts there are gyms, a sports complex with an ice rink and a bowling alley. From evening entertainment, one can note the abundance and variety of cafes and restaurants, discos and clubs. In addition, there are constantly held evening parties, ceremonies, meetings and other events.

Val Thorens

Another ski resort in France, which is located in the Three Valleys at an altitude of 2400 meters. Among all, it is the highest mountain bordering Italy and.

The height with which skiers ride reaches 3200 meters, so the famous Mont Blanc is clearly visible from here. Because of this, it is also called the "roof of the Three Valleys." Despite the good and “quiet” slopes, the best thing here is to feel like a professional who is confidently skiing.

There are no wooden chalets familiar to the eye, and the main buildings in the district are multi-story buildings. Also, because of the height, it is always snowy enough here. But in case of need, snow cannons are always prepared. For guests: spa centers, fitness centers, kindergartens and nurseries, trainers, cinema and numerous restaurants. There are often held competitions at various levels in skiing.

Meribel

From the resorts of the Three Valleys for a relaxing family vacation, Meribel is located at an altitude of 1400 meters. He has everything for this: not the highest prices, good service, trainers for classes, including with children, ice arenas. A distinctive feature of this place, which children will definitely appreciate, are races and sledding.

  This place is also remembered for its special charm, rustic atmosphere and architecture of wooden houses and light stone. It was founded back in 1938, and managed to avoid the fashion for concrete hotels.   There are not many people due to the lack of a lot of entertainment, and in the evenings this is not the busiest place. Most of the guests are families with children.

The convenience of its location in the very center of the region is especially appreciated, which allows you to quickly get to all the necessary descents, as well as easily go around the entire district. The ski season is a little less - from December to April.

Chamonix

The oldest and largest ski resort in France is Chamonix.

This is the name of the valley located right at the foot of Mont Blanc, and the town of the same name. The view of this mountain opens directly from the windows of hotels and houses. Nearby is the border with Italy and Switzerland, where you can go by special tunnel or mountain road.

The first Olympic winter games were held in Chamonix in 1924.   And the first vacationers appeared here in the XVIII century. Since then, of course, much has changed - cable cars were laid and ski slopes were equipped. In addition, there is a center of mountain climbing, winter rafting, climbing and other winter entertainments.

The atmosphere of small villages located here is not spoiled by urban "charms". For several centuries, they are here surrounded by mountain slopes, unspoiled nature and fresh alpine air. The weather here is unpredictable and can change several times a day. But there is even some charm of the mountainous area, which is considered the heart of the entire Alpine ridge.

Megeve

Most of the settlements located in the French Alps have been standing here for more than one hundred years. But not all are preserved as the resort of Megeve. This is a real monument of the history and culture of this area, and the beginning of its history dates back to the distant Middle Ages. The houses that are offered for rent to guests are already 200 years old.   But they are in very good condition.

  Many people come to this resort in France, not only skiing, but also imbued with the spirit of antiquity. All roads are lined with old paving stones, and for its safety traffic is prohibited here. In the center are a 13th-century medieval church, a monastery and a clock tower.

In addition to the ski slopes, there are flat trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. One of the most famous and expensive ski schools in Europe is open here. It is a frequent venue for numerous figure skating championships.

La Plagne

La Plagne is the second largest ski region in the French Alps after the Three Valleys. The only bobsleigh track in France was built here, so here in 1992 some stages of the Winter Olympics were held.

Snow is almost always enough here, since the main slopes begin at an altitude of 2000 meters. In total, this district unites 12 villages - some of them were built back in the 60s, others much later. As in all other resort areas there are plenty of modern entertainment besides skiing: cafes, restaurants, discos, etc. Most hotels and chalets correspond to 3-4 stars.

Ski resorts of France on the map

In the area of \u200b\u200bthe French Alps there are about 200 recreation areas in total.   Many of them differ from each other both in their natural geographical position - heights, terrain, terrain, and infrastructure, design artificially created by people, etc. Nevertheless, the mandatory elements are routes of varying complexity, hotels - from 2 to 5 stars, many cafes and restaurants.

  Choosing a place of residence or certain routes, you can not worry, because staying in one place is not necessary. Convenient cable cars, buses and other vehicles, as well as a single ski pass in some areas, allow you to move around the mountains without restrictions.

France's ski resorts from year to year take on its territory a large number of tourists. This is facilitated by the availability of developed infrastructure, a mild mountain climate and a great season suitable for skiing, excellent modern tracks, many coaches and instructors, as well as a large number of establishments that provide additional entertainment and relaxation.

Tour operators advise to go to the ski resorts of France not in the high season and during the New Year and Christmas holidays, but in the rest of the time. Then you can avoid significant margins, problems with booking accommodation and crowds of tourists.

Famous winter resorts of the French Alps, small mountain villages, mountain ranges on the island of Corsica, excellent conditions for both beginner athletes and professionals, opportunities for skiing on the plain, paragliding, snowboarding and other sports, well-developed infrastructure, a wide selection of après ski - All this is ready to offer tourists ski France.

General information about ski resorts in France

French ski resorts are rightfully considered to be one of the best in the world: more than 400 resorts, the highest mountains (Alps), first-class and diverse slopes that have hosted more than one Olympic Games - indeed, there is a hearth for pride.

The largest ski area is, of course, the Alps. Also presented here is the highest peak - Mont Blanc, the largest selection of slopes, a huge number of ski lifts - almost 4000. About half of all resorts are equipped with snow cannons, and some even skiing are possible even in summer. In addition to the well-known Chamonix or Courchevel, there are less well-developed places for skiing in other regions of the country. For example, the Pyrenees is a great option for those who prefer flat skiing or are just learning to ski or snowboard. Another plus of rest in this region in winter is the prices are much lower than in alpine resorts. Corsica also has resorts that allow ski lovers to relax there from December to March, sometimes through April.

As for weather conditions in the Alps, you can safely come here from the end of November to the beginning of May (depending on the particular resort, the start of the season may vary). The best skiing time begins in February with the setting of sunny weather. Throughout the season, the Alps are pleased with fairly mild weather - here it is rarely lower - 10 degrees.

Another nice point is a sufficient number of ski schools offering different levels of training. If you acquire a ski pass for lessons, then the cost of the first will be much lower. To reduce the cost of ski passes, you can purchase a subscription - from 1 day or more. A subscription can be for a specific resort, as well as for the entire ski area. Children under 5 years and adults after 72 do not pay anything for a ski pass.

Where to ski in France

The most popular and sought after ski resorts in France are located in the Alps, as already mentioned. Novice athletes should pay attention to the resorts of the Mourienne Valley, in search of luxury and prestigious relaxation, go to Courchevel or Val d'Isere, and from the resorts of Port du Soleil you will also find Swiss mountain peaks.

France ski resorts in numbers

And now we will tell about the most popular ski resorts in a little more detail.

Three Valleys

This is one of the largest skiing regions in France, combining the resorts of Courchevel, Meribel and Val Thorens, with 600 km of pistes, excellent slopes, cross-country skiing trails, ice rinks, hockey grounds, sled races, ski jumps and trails for slalom. Courchevel presents the most luxurious entertainment and hotels, as well as Olympic-quality tracks. In Meribel and Val Thorens - excellent conditions for training and beginner skiers.

A nice bonus is ski schools for children from 3 years old and a large number of kindergartens, so you can safely come to the resorts of the Three Valleys with the whole family.

Chamonix

The oldest (it is 200 years old), the largest, most famous and most famous resort in France (the first Winter Olympics was held here), the highest descent in the Alps (about 20 km) - this is enough to go here. The resort is very diverse: the quality of the tracks is different (there are very good, there are also quite mediocre), it is more suitable for beginners and skiers alike, party lovers and alpine lovers will be pleased here.

In Chamonix, unlike many other resorts, there is no single ski area - you have to get on the ski bass (about 7 minutes), but there is an opportunity to get to the ski resorts of Italy and Switzerland. In addition, excellent conditions for snowboarders are created in Chamonix: there is a half-pipe, tracks and off-piste skiing; 42 kilometers of cross-country skiing trails; ski schools, 300 instructors work; There are children's clubs and a kindergarten.

Espace Killy

This region combines several ski resorts (Val d'Isère and Tignes - the most popular) with a total length of trails of 300 km. Thanks to ultra-modern slopes, a highly developed infrastructure, many ski schools (with 800 instructors), the ability to ski on glaciers even in the summer, excellent snowboarding routes and a large selection of après skiing (helicopter rides, sledding or snowmobiling), the resorts of this region are considered to be one of the best in the world, not to mention France. Children’s clubs, nurseries, nannies are a fact of course, without which it’s impossible to imagine any developed ski resort.

Port du Soleil

The gates of the sun - this is how the name of the resort is translated - spread in two countries at once: France and Switzerland. The unified skiing system is well developed here, and the opportunity to visit two countries at once in one day attracts tourists even more. The most popular resorts of the region on the French side are Morzine, Avoriaz and Les Gets.

In addition to the ski slopes, you will find 7 parks for snowboarders, off-piste slopes, 216 kilometers of cross-country ski tracks, snowmobiles and hang gliders, night clubs and restaurants, including those with Russian cuisine (for those who are suddenly homesick for their homeland).

Alp d’Huez

Known as one of the sunniest ski resorts in France - the sun shines here 300 days a year (longer than on some beaches). In particularly clear weather, almost a quarter of the south of France can be seen from viewing platforms. There is a track laid directly through the glacier and lit up in one of the parts of the “Bondiana”, one of the longest slopes in France is the 16-kilometer Saren. Among other things, here are suitable conditions for children and beginners. Experienced athletes will rejoice in the quantity and quality of red and black tracks.

Another distinctive feature of this resort, and a very pleasant one, is the presence of a large number of places for accommodation (much larger than in other ski regions). And the lifts pick up the skiers directly from the gates of the hotels. There are more than enough reasons to come to this resort.

Paradisks

The youngest ski resort in France, which you can visit all year round to hone your skills thanks to the glaciers located here.

In addition, this is the second largest ski area (after the Three Valleys). Popular valley resorts - Les Arcs, La Plagne and Peise Wallandry are connected by the largest cable car in Europe. In addition to skiing, here you can try your hand at the Olympic bobsleigh track or in skijoring, when the skis are attached to the horse), go to frozen waterfalls or organize a descent into the ice cave. There are also freestyle tracks here, conditions have been created for both beginner skiers and professionals.

A huge number of diverse resorts, a combination of traditions that have been around for centuries, and modern trends, opportunities for skiing all year round, and before you - one of the leaders in skiing in the world.

Climate in France

Marseilles

Snow-white liners going on cruises in the Mediterranean Sea and Africa, fishing boats, starting every morning in search of another, and it should be noted, considerable catch, excellent beaches, offering not only a standard set of services for vacationers, but also the opportunity to ride a kayak or go under sail, - this is how the second largest and largest city in France, Marseille, welcomes guests. There are many Arabian delicacies and other exotic things in this city - it is not without reason that it is considered the gateway to Africa.

Toulouse

A city with a rich history and original architecture, one of the most vibrant and romantic cities in France, Toulouse is amazed by a mixture of traditions and styles. Roman ruins, ancient cathedrals and churches with amazing stained glass windows, graceful mansions of soft blue color and red brick houses - the city impresses with its unique color. And each of its squares and streets is riddled with history: the Duke Henri de Montmorency was executed here - the loudest execution in the country; in the ancient monastery - Museum of the Augustinians - canvases of famous French artists are kept.

The French Alps attract both beginners and advanced skiers from around the world. It is understandable: a variety of routes and the beauty of nature are combined with the modern infrastructure of luxury resorts. In France there are more than 400 ski resorts, from large and well-known to very small and no less comfortable. For beginners, the Alps d'Huez, La Plagne, Les Arcs, Villard de Lans, Risoul, Le Menuire, Val Cenis and all the resorts of the Murien Valley, where there are a lot of sunny plateaus, are suitable. For a prestigious vacationer, you can recommend Courchevel, Megeve, Val d'Isere - These resorts impress with the number of luxury hotels, luxury chalets, restaurants and boutiques.

Chamonix

Chamonix is \u200b\u200bthe center of the popular Chamonix-Mont-Blanc ski region. Now Chamonix is \u200b\u200bknown as a popular and relatively accessible resort for lovers of skiing and snowboarding. The Chamonix Valley, which stretches for 16 km, includes several ski regions: Gran Monte, Le Tour, Les Houches, Breven, Fleger, as well as the famous White Valley - an off-piste descent about 20 km long from the peak of the Aiguille du Midi (3843 m) . The skiing in Chamonix is \u200b\u200bso varied, you can find trails for skiers of all levels.

Station of skiers "Grand Monte" in Chamonix. Photo Credit: Daniel Simpson, commons.wikimedia.org

With 157 kilometers of ski slopes and virtually unlimited off-piste areas, Chamonix is \u200b\u200ba very popular ski region operating year-round. The lift system provides access to the highlands around Mont Blanc.

Chamonix ski resorts are suitable for both children, beginners and intermediate skiers, as well as for advanced skiers. In Chamonix there is no single ski area connected by a network of lifts. To the ski areas (Le Brevan, Les Houches, Le Tours, Argentineur) you need to go 7-15 minutes on a ski bus.

Espace Killy

The resorts of Val d'Isère and Tignes form a single ski area of \u200b\u200bEspace Killy, which is a total of 300 km of ski slopes of various difficulty levels and about a hundred lifts. Skiing at the resort is guaranteed not only in winter but also in summer thanks to the Pissey Glacier.

Val d Isere

In Val d'Isere, the ski lifts are quite convenient for apartments and hotels, some of which can be reached on skis. Val d'Isère is a few thousand hectares of marked ski slopes and 10 thousand hectares of virgin lands at an altitude of 1550 to 3500 m. Here is the best school for teaching skiing and snowboarding, as well as experienced freeride instructors. The ski season lasts from early December to late March. Halfpipe is located at the end of the Face de Belle-varde, and there is also a snowpark. The length of the cross-country ski runs is 24 km.

For lovers of extreme skiing - breathtaking rock bastions of Galiz and Grand Aigius Russ. For beginners - the classic routes in the forests of Santon and Wallon. Pros will appreciate the Belvard rock with Bernard Russi downhill (altitude 2809 m, elevation 972 m, length 2905 m, average slope angle 350, maximum slope angle 63 degrees).

Val d'Isere retains the atmosphere of a traditional French village. The architectural look is unique among other French ski resorts.

Tignes

Tignes (2100 m) is an alpine resort in Espace Killy - one of the best places in France for freeriding. The World Cup stages are held here annually. For wide, fairly steep Tignes, snowboarders are very fond of. This resort is ideal for a fun youth holiday.

Snow cover is guaranteed thanks to the glacier, which makes summer skiing possible. Modern lifts, many different slopes are the advantages of this resort. Tignes consists of several stations: Tignes-le-Lac and Tignes-Lavache (located nearby), Tignes-Val-Claret (located 2 km from the first two in the valley above the lake). There are few hotels in Tignes, the main type of accommodation is apartments, many inexpensive options.

Both Val d'Isere and Tignes have a large number of both children's (from 3 years old) and adult ski and snowboard schools (7 schools in Tignes with 350 teachers, 12 in Val d'Isere with 450 teachers), in which You can not only acquire or improve your skills, but also fly by helicopter to remote areas to go through the most interesting routes with a guide-instructor. For the youngest children there are kindergartens, nannies and nurses.

Three Valleys (Le Troyes Valle)

Three Valleys is the largest ski resort in the world. It combines more than 200 lifts, more than 600 km of marked trails. This is the venue for the 1992 Olympic Games. On the territory of the Three Valleys there are many world-famous ski villages - Courchevel 1550, Courchevel 1650, Courchevel 1850, La Tanya, Meribel, Mottaret, Les Menuires, Val Thorens. From the point of view of skiing, it does not matter which town to stay in. A single ski pass for all Three Valleys provides access to all 200 ski lifts.

Meribel

Meribel is an excellent place for those who ride on an average level. Great opportunities for ski safaris, there are many wide, not too difficult tracks in the entire ski area. It’s good to perfect equipment on the tracks between Pa du Lac and Platière. Almost every slope has easy descents.

Meribel advantage, which provided the resort with great popularity - its central location in the Three Valleys. Being here, you benefit a lot from the choice of the direction of movement and the territory of skiing, depending on the weather, mood and level of skiing or snowboarding. The Meribel resort (1400-1600 m) also includes the Meribel Mottare station (1700-1800 m).

Val Thorens

Val Thorens, a French ski station at an altitude of 2300 m, is the highest in Europe. Val Thorens has 68 ski runs stretching for 140 km, of which 8 are green (light), 25 are blue (medium), 27 are red (difficult) and 8 are black (for experts). The ski area is equipped with 29 mechanical lifts , with a capacity of 60 680 people / hour. The resort is equipped with a snow park and facilities for new types of skiing (bordercross, half-pipe). In the resort of Val Thorens, located in the heart of a large natural park with six glaciers, numerous ski trails are available.

Courchevel

One of the most prestigious ski resorts in France - Courchevel - is famous for its huge selection of pistes and virgin slopes. The alpine villages of the Courchevel Valley are located on five different levels: Le Praz - 1030 m, Saint-Bon - 1300 m, Courchevel-1550, Courchevel-1650 and Courchevel-1850.

Brides-les-Bains

Brides-les-Bains is a resort whose infrastructure was created specifically for the 1992 Winter Olympics. The very location of the resort is also not chosen by chance - it is ideally located in relation to the Three Valleys. The Olympus direct ropeway will take you to Meribel, Courchevel and Val Thorens in just 20 minutes.

Here you can not only ride, but also heal: there is a large wellness center with thermal springs, a pool with mineral water, healing mud treatments, all kinds of massage at the guests' service.

Sports opportunities in the region are skiing and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiles, tobogganing, sleigh rides, bobsledding, rock climbing, hiking. Fun resort life in Brides-les-Bains will provide bars, restaurants, cafes, discos. Here is the only casino in the mountains (except for the resort of Chamonix). As well as shops, cinemas, excursions. The resort hosts skiing, music festivals.

Alp d’Huez

Alp d’Huez is the largest ski resort in France, located at an altitude of 1860 m, on the sunny plateau of the Grandes Rousses massif. This is one of the oldest alpine resorts. 300 sunny days a year and proximity to Grenoble Airport make the Alps d'Huez one of the most visited and beloved ski resorts in Europe.

This is one of the 20 resorts in the world where lifts serve a vertical drop of more than 2000 meters. A stepped mountain location and the longest system of internal lifts allow you to ride directly from the hotel. There is a huge ski area for beginners right next to the resort. Season from late November to late April. Summer skiing on the Sarenn Glacier is possible in July and August.

The complexity of the tracks according to local classification is understated, many red tracks at other resorts would have been designated black. The longest certified track in Europe is Sarenn (16 km.). The Tunnel track, shot in a James Bond movie, runs through a tunnel in a glacier. Snowpark and halfpipe for snowboarders at Lac Blanc. For lovers of flat skis - three circular tracks with a total length of 54 km.

Megeve

One of the most prestigious and picturesque ski resorts of world renown. A pedestrian zone with cobbled streets in the center, ancient architecture create the atmosphere of a real Savoyard village. From Mont Joli and other sites offer spectacular views of Mont Blanc. The mountains rise to a height of 1000-2500 meters, up to 1850 meters the mountains are covered with spruce-fir forests, giving a special charm to this place. The Megeve includes three ski areas: Rochebrune-Cote, Mont d'Arbois and Le Jay. It is good for beginners and those who prefer a family holiday.

Professionals will like the steepest and most difficult slopes in the Mont Joli and Mont Jou areas, black and red slopes are in the Cat 2000, but they are not very long. For the middle level, the slopes in Mont d'Arbois are also suitable, the slopes served by the Gran Vorasse ski lift are also interesting; the slopes are more difficult in the Combloux and Gayiers regions. In general, Megeve is ideal for skiers of this level. and upstairs in all three areas, but only two of them are connected by a lift - Rochebruin and Mont d'Arbois. You can only get to Le Jeye by land transport.

In Megeve there is an Olympic ice rink, dog sledding, sleigh rides, horseback riding, helicopter flying, etc. are also possible.

Le des alpes

Le des Alpes resort is located in the center of the alpine Oiseans. The station is located at an altitude of 1650 m above sea level, at the foot of one of the largest glaciers in Europe, and provides skiers and snowboarders the opportunity to ride all year round. Mechanical lifts, including cable cars, funiculars, chairlifts and ski lifts, allow you to climb to a height of 3520 m. The ski area of \u200b\u200bLes Deux Alpes 3600 extends to 430 ha. The height difference is from 1300 to 3600 m, the total length of the tracks is 225 km.

Winter and summer snow parks are equipped on the glacier. Ten snowpark riding areas are designed for both beginner snowboarders and freestyle fans, as well as experienced fans of extreme winter sports. Diversified jumps and turns allow official competitions to be held. There are many schools for beginner skiers. Professional instructors (including Russian-speaking ones) teach beginners to ski and snowboard, and advanced skiers can take part in individual or collective lessons in freeride, slopestyle, etc.

The resort offers tourists a huge palette of entertainment: snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice rink, swimming pools, lessons at the paraglider school, bowling, excursions to the ice grotto, located at an altitude of 3400 m.

Villars de Lance

The Villars de Lans ski resort is located in the center of France’s largest natural park, Vercors, on the slopes of the Aigle massif and the Predalpa Dauphiné ridge. This town is especially attractive because of its location - on all sides it is surrounded by gorges and picturesque mountain ranges.

The slopes of Villars de Lans are part of a single ski area with the slopes of the small resort of Correncon en Vercors. This ski area is perfect for beginners and those with intermediate skiing skills. 130 km of tracks with a vertical drop from 1160 to 2285 meters are laid here. About 50 km of them are “green” and “blue”, 49 km are “red”, 31 km are “black”. The slopes are very beautiful, as they pass through forests, picturesque canyons and plateaus.

The climate in the resort is quite humid, so in its upper sections there are many virgin areas with lots of snow. For lovers of cross-country skiing and hiking in Villars de Lans, a route of 160 km has been laid. You can get to any of the slopes with the help of 29 ski lifts, most of which are related to ski tows. The ski season in Villars de Lans lasts from early December to early April.

In addition to the beautiful slopes, the resort has a wonderful water park, ice rink, fan park (in Correncon en Vercors), a cinema, bowling, a casino, a sports center, numerous restaurants and bars. For children, kindergartens, ski schools are open, separate tracks and lifts are equipped. You can also visit the Shoranches caves of the Vercors reserve and see a light or sound show, visit the Museum of Robots, the Museum of Water and the Historical Museum.

Paradisks

The combined region for Paradiski skiing includes the resorts La Plagne, Pace Valandry, Le Cauche and Les Arcs. This resort area is very young (created in 2003), and its name was born during an international competition, the winner of which was Paradiski (a combination of the French word Paradis - "paradise" and the English ski - "ski"). Paradiski has excellent conditions for freeriding and teaching children alpine skiing. All year round skiing is possible on two glaciers.

The trails stretched from the peak of the Aiguille de Rouge (2335 m) in the west, the peak Belcot (3417 m) in the center and the mountains of Les Verdon (2500 m) in the east to the foot of the Tarantez valley, forming an extended ski zone running down the wooded slopes to small towns in the valley. In total, Paradiski offers 425 km of ski slopes at altitudes from 1,200 to 3,250 meters, with approximately 13% of them black, 24% red, 58% blue and 5% green. The slopes are serviced by 144 ski lifts, and individual resorts are connected by a single ski lift system (including the largest Vanoise Express cable car in Europe, 1.6 km long with cabins for 200 people each) and tracks.

Les Arcs consists of several mountain villages - Bourg-Saint-Maurice, Ark-1600, Ark-1800, Ark-1950 and Ark-2000, whose ski areas are located at altitudes from 1200 to 3226 m. In Ark-1800 there are many slopes for beginners , the descent of the Arc-1600 is steeper, the Arc-2000 offers to conquer the Olympic pistes of the Aiguille-Rouge peak (3226 m). Thanks to well-groomed slopes and smooth mountainous terrain, Les Arcs has been repeatedly selected as the venue for international downhill competitions. Snowboarders at Les Arcs have a 180 m long fan park and halfpipe.

La Plagne resort consists of 10 stations, six of which are connected by an extensive network of lifts, and four are slightly removed from them. The region is dominated by tracks of medium difficulty, but there are also slopes for pros descending from the peaks of Belkot and Bioli. The “blue” tracks may well be mastered by a beginner who came to rest in La Plagne, and the advanced athletes will like the slopes of Kamikaze and Harakiri. One of the local attractions is the bobsleigh track, where the 1992 Winter Olympics competitions were held

Port du Soleil

The Porte du Soleil resort is also known as the “Gate of the Sun" - there is always sunny weather and excellent descents for both pros and beginners. Located between Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc on the border of France and Switzerland. Port du Soleil includes eight French and six Swiss resorts.

Many schools, pistes of various difficulty levels in four areas for skiing from the French side: Le Je, Morzine, Avoriaz and Chatel. The choice of local slopes will satisfy a skier of any level, and there is a single ski pass throughout the resort. Due to the low location of the ski areas in Port du Soleil, it is best to go from January to March.

Port du Soleil has 280 runs, of which 26 are black, 105 are red, 112 are blue and 37 are green. 201 ski lifts are operating, 650 km of pistes are laid in the resort. Nine snow parks will delight the most sophisticated snowboarders and freestyle enthusiasts. Port du Soleil has good conditions for off-piste skiing. And after a busy ski day, you can relax in any of the 89 mountain restaurants.

Avoriaz / Morzine

The city of Morzine lies in a spacious valley at an altitude of 1000 m above sea level. One of the largest resorts in Port du Soleil, Morzine, is located at an altitude of only 1000 meters and is the center of the French part of the region. The city is known for the traditional atmosphere of a ski resort - the first lift was opened here in 1934. There are many shops and restaurants, as well as hotels and apartments.

Avoriaz is the youngest resort of Porte du Soleil, specially built for skiing. Avoriaz is literally entangled with tracks on all sides. The ski in ski out system works here - you can get from the house to the track and vice versa. Avoriaz is considered the center of European snowboarding - it was here that in 1989 the first World Cup in snowboarding was played. Near the city there are off-piste ski areas. Snowboard enthusiasts will appreciate the snow parks: The Bleu du Lac for experienced snowboarders and The La Chapelle for beginners. There is a superpipe for freestyle. For advanced skiers there are simply unlimited possibilities, the slopes are simple, long, mostly sunny. A very interesting ski area in Champéry and Les Gets, but there is one inconvenience: you can get to Les Gets only through the Morzine station, removing your skis.

Le Menuire

The resort is located in the Bellevile Valley a few kilometers from Val Thorens at an altitude of 1850 meters and is connected by a network of lifts to Val Thorens, Meribel, La Tanya and Courchevel. The ski season is from December to May. The total length of the slopes is 160 km, there are 28 km of cross-country skiing tracks.

The resort is actively developing the North American model beginners village. A ski area (about 5,000 sq. M) is reserved for beginners, which is discussed by six free ski lifts. Also for beginners there is a special ski pass for another 11 ski lifts in the region at especially low prices.

Of particular interest are the red and black tracks that are on the La Massa massif. Relaxing in the resort of Menuire, you should definitely take a ride on the 3 Marches and Mont de la Chambre highways. The resort is surrounded by many slopes, ideal for freeriding, from where you can go down to the hills, thereby avoiding the need to use a bus. The vast majority of tracks are blue and red.

Tourists can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, parachuting, hiking, dog sledding and snowmobiling. Après ski - restaurants, cafes, bars, pastry shops and pizzerias, disco, night club, bars with live music. As well as billiards, two outdoor pools, indoor tennis courts, a fitness center with a Turkish bath, a sauna and a gym, toboggan runs, an ice rink.

La tanya

The ski resort of La Tanya is located between the ski resorts of Meribel (5 km) and Courchevel (2 km) on the border of the Vanoise National Park and belongs to the Three Valleys ski region. The resort is located at an altitude of 1400 meters. Ski season from mid-December to late April. The number of ski runs is 318 (30 black, 108 red, 129 blue, 51 green). The total length of the tracks is more than 600 km. The total length of cross-country skiing trails is 118.55 km (of which 26.5 km are in La Tanya itself).

All tracks are well-groomed, there is light for night skiing, lifts are located so that there are no queues. In La Tanya there is the opportunity to ride on numerous and diverse tracks and outside of them in the neighboring Meribel and Val Thorens. The tourist infrastructure includes luxury hotels and restaurants, the expensive Forum shopping center, and even its own airfield. And of course, great views of the mountains.

Of the nearby attractions, of interest is the Vanoise National Park, known for its population of wild alpine mountain goats - ibexes. The park is inhabited by chamois, alpine marmots, lynxes, white hares, ermines, bearded, golden eagles and black grouse. Vanoise borders the Italian Gran Paradiso National Park, and both of them make up the largest protected area in Western Europe.

Half an hour from La Tanya, there are two wellness facilities - the Grand Spa des Alpes in Bridle-les-Bains and the Thermes de Salins les Bains in Salen-les-Termins, known for the healing properties of salt water used to treat rheumatism and skin diseases .

Lez Ush

The resort is located at the foot of the highest peak of the Alps - Mont Blanc Mountain (4807 m), which offers panoramic views of the landscapes of the foothills of the Chamonix Valley. Here skiers and snowboarders of all levels of training - from beginners to experts. The reason for this is an unprecedented variety of descents, peaks, pistes and slopes. Les Houches is also famous for the fact that the annual World Cup downhill skiing is held here. One of the features of the resort is that most of the tracks are laid through the forest.

Ski slopes from 950 to 1900 meters in length, a large area for beginners and amateurs. There are 2 short slopes for beginners, right on top of the Prairion and Bellevue lifts. Les Houches is suitable for beginner ski lovers. This is a more protected resort, in the sense that you can ride here quite comfortably even in bad weather.

Additional attractions include cafes and restaurants, dog sledding, helicopter flights over the Chamonix Valley. Near Les Houches is the picturesque village of Servoz, where you can visit the picturesque gorge Les Gorges de Diosaz, the Alpine Museum, shops of local artisans. Annual local events - Christmas market, artisans festival, mule fair, markets with all kinds of local delicacies.