Map of ski resorts in France and routes to them. The best ski resorts in France French ski resort

By right, the ski resorts of France are considered to be the most prestigious in the world. Alpine ridge that runs through this European country, has over four thousand trails, among which there are both very difficult ones, intended for professionals, and very simple ones, where even a child can enjoy skiing.

Brief overview of all recreation areas

More than two hundred recreation areas are concentrated in this area, each of which is characterized by its own characteristics, both geographical and artificially created (hotels, restaurants and other establishments). However, all ski resorts in France, regardless of the degree of prestige, include hotels of various categories (from two to five stars), a wide variety of restaurants and cafes, and, most importantly, different slopes. That is, when arriving anywhere in the French Alps, you can choose the most difficult descent for yourself, as well as the extremely simple one, and enjoy your vacation. Moreover, tourists can move around in this area without any restrictions. You can book a hotel at one resort, and on some day go to the slopes of another.

Landscapes of the world heritage

Now let's look at the most visited and recognizable ski resorts in France. Chamonix is ​​considered the heart of the entire Alpine range, where unique nature and a very pleasant climate are happy to welcome every tourist. It is located near the borders of Switzerland and Italy, so this region You will also be able to notice a slight synthesis of cultures. Despite the fact that this recreation area is perfectly equipped with trails of varying difficulty, the White Valley remains a legendary place here. This point is at an altitude of 3842 meters, and while climbing there, you can descend as much as you like off-road. The place is extreme, but everyone who has experienced all the delights of such skiing wants to return there again and again. Well, and of course, like all ski resorts, it is a center for ice mountaineering, rock climbing, winter rafting, paragliding over snowy peaks and much more.

Young and inexpensive recreation area

If you are looking for a secluded place where prices are very reasonable, but at the same time the service remains at a high level, then you will probably be attracted to the following option. French mining ski resort Tignes occupies a vast area within the Alps, which is popularly called the “Killy Space”. This place is characterized by a well-developed infrastructure, which consists of a metro, gondolas and a huge network that regularly transport tourists to various parts of the Alpine range. The resort also has a giant glacier called the Grand Mote, suitable for skiing all year round. At its top there are many so-called blue tracks, which are most often chosen by carving enthusiasts. If you still prefer freeride, then the ideal place for descents will be the lower slopes, which are located in the west of the recreation area.

The most visited ski resorts in France

“Three Valleys” is the general name for 600 kilometers of trails, which are located at an altitude of 1300-3230 meters. More than two hundred lifts constantly transport vacationers to various heights, from which they can descend both on skis and snowboards. It is in this region that winter sports championships have been repeatedly held, and it is here that nature most organically combines with the creation of man. The Three Valleys includes recreation areas such as Val Thorens, Courchevel and Meribel (France). Val Thorens is the highest point in the region. Skiers here climb to a height of 2300 meters, where a stunning view of the entire Mont Blanc opens. The slopes here are calm, without obstacles, but still steep, so only a professional will feel safe here. Courchevel is the center of social life. This is the pride of France. Important ceremonies and parties are constantly held here, hotel business and the service sector is simply excellent. In addition to all this, the number of trails of varying difficulty is off the charts. The height of the slopes in Courchevel ranges from 1300-1800 meters, and among them there are not only simple slopes, but also tracks for jumping, for skiing or downhill. There are also many ice arenas and much more.

The Golden Mean of the Three Valleys

The ski resort of Meribel is considered the most suitable place For family vacation. At an altitude of 1400 meters there are running tracks and ordinary slopes, where there are trainers who will help everyone, including small children, learn the basics of winter sports. The architecture of the region is made entirely in the French style; it is cozy and beautiful. The service in hotels and restaurants is at a high level, and at the same time the prices are quite reasonable. Fans of ice activities are not forgotten here either. Special rinks are equipped for hockey players, where they are provided with suitable skates, as well as the necessary uniforms. For those who like to simply cut across the ice, there are many arenas under open air, where both children and adults ride. But most interesting entertainment Meribel is a walking and sled racing event. Every child will receive a lot of impressions from such entertainment, although adults can also take part in the races.

Alpine Sun Island

The premium resort is located in one of the sunniest places in the world, where golden rays envelop Mountain peaks 300 days a year. The Alpe d'Huez recreation area is characterized by trails that are located on the upper plateau. All of them face south, which allows you to enjoy the sun until late in the evening. In this region, many slopes are designed for children and beginners. The fact is that they are all flat and quite wide, there are a minimum of obstacles, and therefore safety is at a high level. It is here that the two most legendary descents are located: Saren, which is 16 kilometers long, and the Tunnel, a route cut through the glacier. The recreation area also has ice arenas, skating rinks for hockey players and much more.

The oldest recreation area in the Alps

Modern ski resorts in France were most often built on the sites of former settlements that have historical significance. Some of them completely collapsed under the influence of time, but some were preserved and have survived to this day. For example, the Megève region is a living monument of architecture and art, whose history began in the Middle Ages. In the surrounding villages, all roads are paved with cobblestones, and vehicle traffic is prohibited here. The houses that are rented out to tourists have been here for over 200 years, but they are beautifully restored and perfectly clean. Many guests come here to enjoy the spirit of antiquity, to feel how people lived here before and how wonderful it was. There is also a temple in the town, which was built in the 13th century, a monastery was built next to it, and in the center of the town there is big tower with a clock.

Training center for beginner skiers

The recreation area called Portes du Soleil is another place that receives constant sunshine almost all year round. A total of 650 kilometers of trails of varying difficulty are concentrated here, but most importantly, there are a lot of schools where everyone can learn mountaineering or improve their skills. The resort is divided into four ski areas - Morzine, Avoria, Les Gets and Chatel. You need to choose one or the other depending on your skills in as well as the aspirations and peaks that you are going to overcome. Individual business is well developed here, but there are not a large number of different events and social establishments here. People come here mainly to get back into shape or learn to ski fluently from scratch. Often graduates of local schools become Olympic champions or masters winter species sports

A short afterword

Every year, French ski resorts welcome more and more tourists to their lands. Prices for tours here are quite reasonable (fluctuate around 500 USD per week of vacation), which makes it possible for people not only with high, but also with average incomes to visit this place. The infrastructure is well developed here, there are excellent mountain runs of varying difficulty, and schools for those who want to learn the art of skiing. And, of course, entertainment and social parties are available to vacationers. A lot of interesting things await every tourist with any tastes and preferences here.

The Alpine ski resorts of France are rightly spoken of as some of the best winter resorts in the world. The French Alps are the world's largest center winter holiday: more than three hundred ski stations, almost 4 thousand lifts, and the shortest queues for them. There are more than four thousand trails for amateurs, connected and varying in difficulty level. alpine skiing, snowboards and other types of extreme winter recreation. If you are ever faced with a choice of resorts in France, use this article!

Various competitions are often held on the slopes of the Alps, including world championships and the Olympics.

The most popular resorts in the region are Chamonix, Courchevel, Val d'Isere, Val Thorens, Les Deux Alpes, Tignes, La Plagne, Megeve, Meribel, etc.

Chamonix

Chamonix- the largest ski resort in France, located in the heart of the French Alps at the top of the famous crystalline massif of Mont Blanc.

Chamonix Valley- unique natural area near the borders of Italy and Switzerland is included in the list of landscapes that constitute the world heritage. The longest descents reach several tens of kilometers. The highest point of Chamonix is ​​the famous “White Valley”.

Its height reaches 3842 m, and its length is more than 20. Extreme sports such as ice mountaineering, rock climbing, winter rafting, paragliding, and canyoning are developed here. In summer, the resort welcomes fans of mountain biking and climbers.

You can stay in the Chamonix resort in the following hotels:

• Les Chamonix Sud
• La Riviere
• Res. Chamois Blanc
• Le Cristal D'argentiere
• Res. La Ginabelle

Espace Killy

Espace Killy is an area in the French Alps, associated with its three-time world ski champion Jean-Claude Killy, which rightfully deserves the reputation of one of the most wonderful resorts not only in the Alps, but throughout the world. On its territory are the popular resort towns of Val d'Isere and Tignes - ultra-modern slopes suitable not only for beginners, but also for downhill professionals.

You can ski on the glaciers of this region not only in winter, but also in summer (thanks to the Pissaillas glacier), and beginners in skiing have the opportunity to study at ski schools located right on the gentle slopes. Snowboarders can enjoy the state-of-the-art corridors Le Lasvancher, Les Danaides, La Table and Kern. The resort is visited not only by sports fans, but also by those who want to try a helicopter ride, horseback riding dog sledding, motor sleigh or snowshoeing.

Espace Killy can be reached from the following airports: Geneva - 160 km, Grenoble - 143 km, Chambery - 120 km and Lyon - 340 km. Alternatively, take the highway through Albertville or Moutiers. Before resort area Bus routes run from Geneva and Lyon airports 3-4 times a day.

You can stay in the following hotels:

• AVENUE LODGE 5*
• AIGLE DES NEIGES 4*
• CRETES BLANCHES 3*
• BREVIERES CLUB HOTEL MMV (2*)

Three Valleys (Les Trois Vallees)

Three Valleys (Le Trois Vallée) is the largest region in the world ski slopes with a total length of 600 km, located at altitudes of 1.3-3.2 km.

It includes a resort Val Thorens- “Roof of the Three Valleys”, located at an altitude of 2,300 km, Its peak is the picturesque mountain peak of Cime de Caron, offering a magnificent view of Mont Blanc.

Second resort - Meribel- “The Heart of the Three Valleys.” It is located at an altitude of 1.4 km and is divided into the classic French Meribel Center and the more modern Meribel-Mottaray, both areas are completely covered with perfectly smooth slopes and cross-country trails. In addition, here you can play hockey, just ride the skating rink and even take part in sled racing.

And finally, the famous Courchevel- being one of the most prestigious resorts in France, with developed infrastructure, hotels of the highest level, excellent quality of service and a developed entertainment network. Courchevel is located at altitudes from 1300 to 1850 m. At the same time, a lover of ski slopes can ski on various slopes every day for a month, conquering new heights and slopes every day, without ever repeating his route.

In addition to traditional tracks, professionals can appreciate two Olympic jumping tracks. There are several icy slopes for slalom and downhill,

Alpe d'Huez– one of the few resorts where a rich variety of trails is presented in a relatively small area. A cozy compact village in the shape of a triangle is located above the Romanche Valley, the bulk of hotels and residences are located next to the highway or ski lift.

Among the French themselves, Alpe d'Huez has earned the romantic name “Rack of the Sun” due to the fact that the slopes located on the upper plateau and facing south are bathed in the sun's rays from early morning until late evening.

It is the fifth largest French ski region. Here are the most famous tracks in Europe: the Saren descent, which is 16 km long, and the Tunnel route, cut through a glacier.

Resort hotels:

• Res. L'ours Blanc
• Res. Le Cristal De L'alpe
• Res. Les Bergers
• Res. Les Horizons D'huez
• Res. Les Melezes

Location:

The resort can be reached from Geneva, where there are buses regular flights daily. On Saturdays you can get there very quickly (only 1.5 hours) from Grenoble by charter flight.

Megeve

Megève is an excellent ski resort consisting of three ski areas. These are Rochebrune-Côte, Mont-d'Arbois and Le Jay. There is also an open-air museum on its territory. Megève is rightfully considered the most elegant and sophisticated mountain resort France.

This is one of the oldest resorts in the French Alps, and recently rightfully entered the club of privileged ski resorts“The Best of the Alps”. The resort has a classic alpine village atmosphere. For example, it is prohibited to drive on the main street and you can only ride on horse-drawn carriages. The central streets of the town are paved with ancient cobblestones; some houses were built here at least 200 years ago.

Main attractions - old church, built in the 13th century, medieval monastery And city ​​tower. The ski areas are located at an altitude of 1-2.3 km, and there are many slopes for both beginners and real extreme sports enthusiasts.

You can plan your ski holiday in Megeve on three massifs that make up the Evasion ski area: Rochebrune-Cote 2000, Mont d'Arbois, Le Jaillet .

Ski tours to Megève will satisfy skiers of any level, as the resort can offer a wide variety of slopes.

For professionals - the Mont Joly and Mont Joux areas, black and red slopes are in Rochebrune - Cote 2000.

For intermediate level - the routes in Mont d'Arbois, more difficult routes - in the areas of Combloux and Les Jaillet.

For beginners - Rochebrune and Mont d'Arbois, connected to the ski lift.

Location:

Megeve Located 70 km from Geneva airport and a few km from neighboring Chamonix.

Megeve Hotels:

• Relais & Chateaux Flocons de Sel
• Chalet d'Antoine
• Les Cimes
• Les Fermes de Marie
• Alpaga

Climate in the Alps

The tourist season in the Alps begins in December and ends in March. For a Russian tourist, the climate of the Alps will always be favorable. Winter here is much milder and warmer than in Russia. The average temperature in winter is + 1 degree Celsius. And although sub-zero temperatures can occur at any time, they never drop below -10. The winds in the Alps are also not very strong. You can relax with children at any time of the tourist season.

Tourist impressions

The French Alps leave only pleasant impressions on Russian tourists. Russians associate snow-white snow with severe frost or dirty roads covered in slush. In the Alps, snow resembles clouds. Firstly, the climate of the Alps is very mild and warm, and secondly, it is very fresh air and everything around.

Service at Alpine resorts is of the truest European quality. There are comfortable hotels, gourmet cuisine, and stunning ski slopes. For Russians, the French Alps are like winter at home, only cleansed of all its shortcomings...

If you like holidays in the mountains, regardless of the time of year, we recommend that you read the following articles:

• - by going to Italy you can look at the Alps from a different perspective.
• - a wonderful Polish resort with decent service.
• - as you know, Bavaria is famous not only for its castles, but also for its extremely beautiful mountain landscapes.

Don't rush to leave! Here are some more interesting articles:

The famous winter resorts of the French Alps, small mountain villages, mountain ranges on the island of Corsica, excellent conditions for both beginners and professionals, opportunities for flat skiing, paragliding, snowboarding and other sports, developed infrastructure, a wide selection of après ski – ski France is ready to offer all this to tourists.

General information about ski resorts in France

French ski resorts are rightfully considered one of the best in the world: more than 400 resorts, the most high mountains(Alps), first-class and diverse trails that have hosted more than one Olympic Games - indeed, there is something to be proud of.

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

Concerning weather conditions in the Alps, then you can safely come here from the end of November to the beginning of May (depending on the specific resort, the start of the season may vary). Best time Skiing begins in February when sunny weather sets in. The Alps enjoy fairly mild weather throughout the season – it rarely drops below - 10 degrees.

Another nice thing is that there are a sufficient number of ski schools offering different levels of training. If you purchase a ski pass for the lessons, the cost of the first ones will be much lower. You can reduce the cost of ski passes by purchasing passes - from 1 day or more. The subscription can be for a specific resort or for the entire ski area. Children under 5 years old and adults over 72 years old 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 Murien Valley; in search of luxury and prestigious holidays, go to Courchevel or Val d’Isere; from the Portes du Soleil resorts you will also get to the Swiss mountain peaks.

Ski resorts in France in numbers

Now let’s talk about the most popular ski resorts in a little more detail.

Three Valleys

This is one of the largest ski areas in France, combining the resorts of Courchevel, Meribel and Val Thorens, with 600 km of slopes, excellent slopes, cross-country skiing trails, skating rinks, hockey rinks, sled racing, jumping hills and trails for slalom Courchevel offers the most luxurious entertainment and hotels, as well as Olympic-quality tracks. Meribel and Val Thorens have excellent conditions for learning and beginner skiers.

A nice bonus - 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 (200 years old), largest, most famous and most famous resort in France (it was here that the first Winter Olympics), the highest descent in the Alps (about 20 km) - this is enough to go here. The resort is very diverse: the quality of the slopes varies (some are very good, some are quite mediocre), suitable for both beginners and more experienced skiers; both partygoers and connoisseurs of alpine beauty will be happy here.

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

Espace Killy

This region unites several ski resorts (Val d'Isere and Tignes are the most popular) with a total length of slopes of 300 km. Thanks to state-of-the-art slopes, highly developed infrastructure, many ski schools (with 800 instructors), the opportunity to ski on glaciers even in summer, excellent snowboarding trails and a large selection of après-ski (helicopter rides, sled rides or motor sleigh rides), the resorts of this region are considered one of the best one of the best in the whole world, not to mention France. Children's clubs, nurseries, nannies are a self-evident fact, without which it is impossible to imagine any developed ski resort.

Portes du Soleil

The Gates of the Sun - this is how the name of the resort is translated - is located in two countries at once: France and Switzerland. A 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 in 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 trails, snowmobiles and hang gliders, nightclubs and restaurants, including those with Russian cuisine (for those who suddenly feel homesick).

Alpe d'Huez

Known as one of the most solar resorts ski France - the sun shines here 300 days a year (longer than on some beaches). In particularly clear weather observation platforms almost a quarter of the South of France is visible. There is a route laid right through the glacier and featured in one of the parts of Bond, one of the longest descents in France - the 16-kilometer Sarin. Among other things, the conditions here are suitable for children and beginners. Experienced athletes will be pleased with the quantity and quality of the red and black trails.

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

Paradiski

The youngest resort for ski lovers in France, where you can come all year round to hone your skills, thanks to the well-placed glaciers here.

In addition, this is the second largest ski area (after the Three Valleys). The valley's popular resorts of Les Arcs, La Plagne and Peysée Vallandry are connected by Europe's largest cable car. In addition to alpine skiing, here you can try your hand at the Olympic bobsleigh track or skijoring, when skis are attached to a horse), go to frozen waterfalls or organize a descent into ice cave. There are also tracks for freestyle skiers, creating conditions for both beginner skiers and professionals.

A huge number of different resorts, a combination of traditions that have developed over many centuries and modern trends, opportunities for skiing all year round, and before you is one of the leaders in alpine skiing in the world.

Climate in France

Marseilles

Snow-white liners going on cruises in the Mediterranean Sea and to Africa, fishing boats starting every morning in search of the next, and it should be noted, considerable catch, great beaches, offering not only a standard set of services for vacationers, but also the opportunity to go kayaking or sailing - this is how the second most important and largest city in France, Marseille, welcomes guests. This city has a lot of Arabic delicacies and other exotic things - it’s not for nothing 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 amazes with its mixture of traditions and styles. Roman ruins, ancient cathedrals and churches with delightful stained glass windows, elegant mansions of pale blue and red brick houses - the city amazes with its unique flavor. And each of its squares and streets is imbued with history: Duke Henri de Montmorency was executed here - the most notorious execution in the country; The ancient monastery, the Augustinian Museum, houses paintings by the most famous French artists.

The vast majority of French ski resorts are located in the Rhône-Alpes region. Of course, there are not as many of them as, say, in Austria. And they number only 21 objects: Morzine, Les Gets, Avoria, Saint-Gervais, Megeve, Brides-les-Bains, La Plagne, La Rosienne, Le Sete-Lo, Les Arcs, Tignes, Val d'Isère, Courchevel, Meribel, Les Menuires, Val Thorens, La Tanya, Alpe d'Euz, Les Deux Alpes and Villars-de-Lans.

In addition, 4 more complexes are located in northern Provence: Serre Chevalier, Montgenevre, Rizoul/Vars, Isola 2000. Presented in these listings tourist centers were given in accordance with their location from north to south and from east to west.

Resorts have both gentle and quite steep slopes. And holidays in these places only benefit from it. The mesmerizing beauty of the alpine nature, trails accessible to skiers of any level of training - all this makes France one of the most attractive countries in the world in terms of mountain sports tourism.

Features of transport communication

The transport connection is built in such a way that at the same time everything ski resorts in France, on the map marked on a relatively small area of ​​its territory are serviced immediately three international airports– Lyon, Chambery and Grenoble. However, the most convenient way to get to Les Gets, Avoria and Morzine is from Geneva airport, that is, from the territory of a 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 are part of it is overly simplified.

Among the main highways connecting nearby airports and directly indicated tourist infrastructure facilities, it should be highlighted highway E70(Lyon - Bourgoin-Jallieu - Chambery - Rivoli - Turin), E711(Bourgouin-Jallieu - Grenoble), E712(Grenoble - Chambery - Annecy - Geneva), E21(Lyon – Bellegarde-sur-Valserines – Geneva). All other roads are of secondary importance. But it is precisely thanks to their existence ski resorts in France, which, judging by on the map, very closely located to each other, have the opportunity to open their doors wide to numerous guests.

Concerning railway messages, then priority should be given here Lyon hub station. Even Geneva, which is, in fact, the capital of another state, does not have such a powerful and extensive transport system that this city has. Chambery and Grenoble can also please tourists with the presence of stations. However, they, of course, do not have such significant significance.

However, Lyon is inferior to its mentioned French counterparts and even to Geneva in one very important indicator - it is located the farthest from the ski resorts represented. Moreover, it is quite likely that when following from of this city To reach one or another given goal, you will have to make transfers at stations such as Macon and the same Grenoble.

It will be faster from abroad

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

The value of information about the location of French ski resorts on the map

The information provided is of very practical importance. Of course, among other things, it’s just interesting, where exactly is this or that resort located, what big cities located closest to it. But when organizing any trip, you always need to think through the optimal ways to achieve your goal.

So, if you want to ski, say, on the slopes of Avoria or Les Gets, then you shouldn’t fly to Lyon at all. It is enough to limit yourself to a flight to Geneva, and there either by ferry across the lake or by railway, or by road on the highway - in a word, just a stone's throw away!

Which are located in the Alps department, they represent a whole extensive network of superbly equipped areas for skiing. Often it is possible to travel from one resort to another.

Here are the highest mountains and slopes in Europe(the summit of Mont Blanc is 4807 meters) and the largest number of lifts, which means there are always short queues.

These tracks have hosted professional athletes, world championships and Olympics in various winter sports disciplines. Now they can accept you and provide you with excellent leisure , leisure and entertainment.

Ski resorts in France period from December to May. The resorts are known for stable and favorable skiing weather.

Besides, Some resorts offer the possibility of summer skiing.

Resort rating

Three Valleys

Let’s not be afraid to be a little banal and start our review of resorts with the most brilliantly shining diamonds in the winter snow of the French Alps - the three valleys, resorts that hosted the Olympics and are considered the best in France.

In fact, Three Valleys - a multi-level resort system. Here they distinguish:

• Lower level, where resorts with slopes up to 1700 meters are located: La Tania, Courchevel and Meribella;
• average level, with altitudes between 1700-1850 meters, where there are more high part Courchevel, Mottaret and Les Menuires;
• high level, where the altitude is 2300 meters and the resort of Val Thorens is located.

This is where the Olympics were hosted in 1992. The resort in the heart of the Three Valleys is extremely popular. It has a sophisticated and unique atmosphere, magnificent trails and nature.

Can be reached by bus, which go by transfers or by car along the highways. Nearest bus stations:

• Moûtiers train stop is fifty minutes away by bus;
• Chambery is an hour away (about 70 kilometers);
• the city of Lyon is 200 kilometers away;
• Geneva is 120 kilometers away.

The resort consists of two zones:

• Meribel Center– classic French style;
• Meribel-Mottaray– more modern architecture.

Among the entertainments it should be noted major center La Chaudanne with a variety of swimming pools, spas and the like. For just a hundred euros you can fly over the Courchevel Valley on a paraglider.

In addition, there is the opportunity to ride a hot air balloon and dog sledding.

In the ski area, the elevation difference is 1450-2952 meters, there are tracks of different levels, the longest is five kilometers. Half-pipes for snowboarding, 60 lifts.

Courchevel

Perhaps many have heard the name of this resort, which known not for the height of the slopes, but for its prestige. The skiing here is of high quality, but the heights are not the greatest and the slopes are not the most outstanding.

People come here for a high degree of comfort and excellent service.

Hotels, restaurants, a variety of entertainment options - the resort is a leader in these parameters. Many people come here not to ride, but to hang out.

Can be reached from Geneva(a little over a hundred kilometers) or the city of Lyon, which is about two hundred kilometers away.

Despite its fashionable orientation, the resort provides the opportunity not only to ride along gently sloping and smooth green and blue trails, but also to take advantage of high peaks Solir and Wiesell.

Wherein there are excellent conditions for training beginners, in particular at Courchevel 1650.

Called the roof of the three valleys, has the most high point resort Cime de Caron. From this peak you can enjoy a magnificent panorama of Mont Blanc. Thanks to the network of ski lifts, it is possible to travel around the Three Valleys completely from here.

The resort is distinguished by multi-storey buildings and the absence of chalets, usual for Alpine resorts. During the skiing period, there is always snow on the slopes, since they are not only at an altitude of more than two kilometers, but are also provided with snow cannons.

Get there the closest, as for previous resorts, is from Geneva, Lyon or Chambery.

Considering the connection with the other resorts of the Three Valleys, we will not describe the entertainment. Let's finish short review Three Valleys hotels:

• Des neiges;
• Oxalys;
• Annapurna;
• La Sivoliere;
• Le Sabot de Venus;
• Merilys Residence;
• Alpen Ruitor Mottaret;
• Le Kilimanjaro;
• Le Mottaret;
• Les Balcons de Val Thorens;
• Agence de La Saulire.

Tignes

A resort on the slopes of which the downhill World Cup stages are held every November. Skiing is possible throughout the whole year, as the height of the peaks reaches about 3700 meters.

Located three and a half hours drive from Geneva. Includes many restaurants, bars, cinemas and other entertainment venues, many winter activities, paragliding and hang gliding.

In terms of entertainment, the resort is fully stocked. In terms of pistes, it provides an interesting opportunity not only for beginners, but also for experienced skiers. Hotels:

• Hotel Village Montana;
• Hotel le Refuge;
• Hotel Les Campanules;
• Club Med Tignes Val Claret.

Chamonix, France, somewhere at the foot of Mont Blanc

The resort is located in the valley of the same name has magnificent natural beauty and amazing landscape. It is included in the world heritage landscapes.

Known for White Valley– the highest (3842) ski point with twenty kilometers of off-piste skiing. Activities include: paragliding, canyoning, rock climbing, winter rafting, mountain biking, ice mountaineering.

Get there closest to Geneva, which is just under 90 kilometers away. Vacationers can stay in hotels:

• Hotel Le Faucigny;
• Hotel l'Heliopic;
• Le Morgane;
• Hotel Mont-Blanc;
• Grand Hotel des Alpes.

Avoriaz

The original resort in the north, which features magnificent Art Nouveau architecture, no cars, magnificent apartments with access to the slope, a cozy atmosphere, horse-drawn carriages that drive through the streets.

Get there the resort can be reached from Geneva (80 kilometers) or from Thonon Les Bains station. Entertainment includes a full resort package:

• from discos and Jacuzzis, to saunas and gyms;
• there is an opportunity to ride a snow car;
• dog sledding;
• snowboard trails;
• there are cinemas and much more.

The height of the resort is 1800 meters, slope differences: from 1100 to 2277 meters. There are cross-country ski trails. Hotels:

• Hotel des Dromonts;
• Club Med Avoriaz;
• Pierre & Vacances Residence Saskia Falaise;
• PV-Holidays Residence Maeva Multivacances;
• Residence Sirius.

Skiing on the slopes of the French Alps– elite and prestigious entertainment. Many resorts here are imbued with the history of modern sports, and no less have sophistication and their own original style in everything.