Skiing in the Alps

Find your perfect ski holiday

What Makes the Alps So Special?

Skiing in the Alps is more than just a holiday — it's an experience. Here's what makes the region so unique:

Exceptional snow quality: Thanks to the high altitudes and consistent snowfall throughout the season, the Alps offer excellent snow conditions from early winter into spring.
Massive ski areas: Resorts are often interconnected, forming some of the largest ski domains in the world, such as Les 3 Vallées, Paradiski, and Espace Killy.
Breathtaking scenery: Picture postcard views of snowy peaks, pine forests, and charming alpine villages make skiing here unforgettable.
Resorts for every style: From lively après-ski towns to quiet, family-friendly resorts, the Alps cater to all kinds of travellers.
Rich cultural blend: Each country and valley has its own unique atmosphere, food, and traditions — all wrapped up in the alpine charm.

Our top resorts to visit this winter

Best Time to Go Skiing in the Alps

Early Season (Late November to Mid-December): Quiet Slopes and Fresh Snow

The ski season in the Alps often begins as early as late November, particularly in high-altitude resorts such as Val Thorens, Tignes, and Les Deux Alpes, which are known for their early snow coverage. This is a great time for those seeking uncrowded slopes and excellent value for money. Lift passes and accommodation tend to be cheaper, and the peaceful ambiance allows beginners to learn at their own pace while more experienced skiers enjoy freshly groomed runs. While not all resorts are fully open during this period, those that are usually maintain strong snow reliability thanks to altitude or glacier skiing. It’s also an ideal time for pre-Christmas getaways and a festive alpine atmosphere beginning to settle in the villages.

Peak Season (Late December to Early March): Festive Vibes and Guaranteed Snow

The most popular time to ski in the Alps is undoubtedly from late December through February, when snow is abundant, and the mountains are buzzing with energy. Christmas, New Year’s, and February half-term holidays draw in large crowds, so it’s wise to book early. Families, groups, and seasoned skiers alike flock to well-known resorts such as Les Arcs, Méribel, and La Plagne, where snow conditions are typically excellent across all altitudes. The festive season transforms the resorts into magical winter wonderlands, with decorated chalets, torchlight descents, and après-ski events. This period is also ideal for those who want full access to ski areas, with almost all lifts and slopes open and operating at their best.

Spring Skiing (March to Late April): Sunshine and Soft Snow

As the season begins to wind down, March and April offer a completely different but equally enjoyable ski experience. Spring skiing in the Alps is known for its long sunny days, milder temperatures, and often clear blue skies. This is the perfect time for families with young children, sun-lovers, or anyone who enjoys a more relaxed pace. Resorts like Val d’Isère, Alpe d’Huez, and Chamonix still offer excellent snow, especially in the mornings when the slopes are firm and freshly groomed. In the afternoons, enjoy soft snow and outdoor lunches on panoramic terraces. It’s also a great time to take advantage of late-season deals and quieter slopes. Many high-altitude resorts remain open until late April — or even into May — making spring the perfect close to the ski season.

Top Ski Resorts in the French Alps

France is home to some of the most prestigious ski resorts in the Alps. Here are a few highlights:

Val Thorens

The highest ski resort in Europe, located at 2,300 metres, offers incredible snow reliability and access to over 600 km of pistes in Les 3 Vallées.

Tignes & Val d’Isère

These two resorts form the legendary Espace Killy area, perfect for intermediate to expert skiers and snowboarders.

Les Arcs & La Plagne

Together, they form Paradiski, a vast domain with slopes for all levels and plenty of family-friendly infrastructure.

Alpe d’Huez

Known for its sunny weather and long runs, including the famous Sarenne — the longest black run in Europe.

Chamonix

A haven for experienced skiers, freeriders, and mountaineers, sitting at the base of Mont Blanc.

Skiing for All Levels

The Alps are ideal for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.

Beginners

will find dedicated zones, excellent ski schools, and wide green and blue runs in resorts like La Rosière, Morzine, and Les Menuires.

Intermediates

Intermediates can enjoy endless blue and red runs in resorts like Les Arcs, Méribel, or Serre Chevalier.

Advanced skiers and snowboarders

Advanced skiers and snowboarders can test themselves on steep blacks, moguls, and off-piste terrain in Tignes, Val d’Isère, or Chamonix.

Freestyle enthusiasts

Freestyle enthusiasts will love the snowparks in Avoriaz, Les 2 Alpes, and La Clusaz.

What Makes Skiing in the Alps So Special?

World-Class Resorts for Every Type of Skier

One of the most compelling reasons to choose the Alps for your ski holiday is the incredible diversity of ski resorts available across France, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy. Whether you're a beginner searching for gentle slopes and reliable snow in resorts like La Rosière or an expert looking for steep descents and off-piste challenges in Chamonix or Verbier, the Alps cater to all levels. Family-friendly resorts offer ski schools, childcare, and a variety of non-skiing activities, while high-altitude resorts ensure excellent snow reliability throughout the season. Many Alpine resorts are part of large ski areas like Les 3 Vallées or Paradiski, offering hundreds of kilometres of interconnected slopes accessible with a single ski pass.

Breathtaking Scenery and Authentic Alpine Charm

Beyond the slopes, the Alps captivate visitors with their stunning natural beauty and traditional mountain charm. Picture snow-covered peaks, wooden chalets with smoking chimneys, and vibrant alpine villages filled with life. In addition to skiing, the Alps offer a wide range of winter activities such as snowshoeing, sledging, ice skating, and spa retreats. After a day on the slopes, visitors can unwind with delicious local cuisine — think fondue, raclette, and tartiflette — in cosy mountain restaurants. The blend of world-renowned landscapes and warm hospitality creates an unforgettable experience, whether you're travelling as a couple, with friends, or with family.

Unforgettable Après-Ski and Mountain Culture

Skiing in the Alps isn’t just about the sport — it’s also about enjoying the vibrant après-ski culture that the region is famous for. Resorts like Val d’Isère, Méribel, and St. Anton come alive in the late afternoon with music, drinks, and mountain-side bars like La Folie Douce. From relaxing hot chocolate by the fire to dancing in ski boots, there’s an après-ski style for everyone. Cultural experiences such as local markets, torchlight descents, or live alpine music events add to the richness of your trip. Whether you're seeking tranquillity or celebration, skiing in the Alps blends outdoor adventure with unforgettable cultural experiences, making it one of the most complete winter holiday destinations in the world.

Ski Season

Read the article