France is known for its massive ski areas – the biggest in the world – and institutional approach to ski resorts, with chain hotels and ski-in, ski-out apartment complex eyesores on the slopes. The skiing at these ski areas is incredible, but some of us crave a more down-to-earth and intimate approach to ski holidays. For skiers in search of quiet skiing off the beaten path, we’ve rounded up some of the lesser-known ski resorts that have managed to remain quaint and honest in this era of mass tourism. The villages have the added benefit of being more affordable than bigger resorts, with an authentic charm and the genuine feeling of being in France instead of in another British or German outpost.
Nestled in the Hautes-Alpes, Les Orres offers 100km of pistes that are suitable for every level. The altitude combined with the south-facing slopes makes the perfect combination for sunny, snow-sure slopes with dry powder snow. In the car-free centre, traditional wooden buildings and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere provide the perfect place for relaxing after a day on the slopes.
Valmeinier is actually two villages, located at different altitudes: Valmeinier 1500 and Valmeinier 1800. Together with Valloire, they form the Galibier Thabor ski area, which has 150km of pistes. The ski destination has preserved its authentic appearance thanks to the preservation of the beautiful chalets and original buildings. An added bonus: the farming village remains faithful to its local traditions, and this is the ideal place to indulge in local products such as Beaufort, Reblochon and cured meats.
Vaujany shares a ski area with Alpe d'Huez, but life here moves at a slower pace than its lively sister village: visitors here have come for the peace and quiet and the excellent skiing terrain. In no time at all, the gondola can take you to the heart of the ski area, where you can tackle the legendary Sarenne, try your hand at the challenging off-piste routes or simply carve your way down the blue and red slopes. Nearby Oz-en-Oisans is another good option.
Looking for a ski holiday away from the masses, but unwilling to sacrifice the quality of the terrain? You might want to consider Saint Sorlin d'Arves, part of the Les Sybelles ski area. Friendlier than better-known resorts such as Val Thorens or La Plagne, Saint Sorlin d’Arves nevertheless boasts access to 300km of pistes. The old village centre is still intact, and has been expanded with new accommodations. The small village is situated at the foot of the Col de la Croix de Fer.
Think outside the box and try the Pyrenees on your next ski holiday – you won’t regret it. Saint Lary Soulan is an excellent option for skiing off the beaten path. Originally a spa resort town, it has since grown into a fully fledged ski village with charming architecture. A cable car connects you to Saint-Lary Pla d’Adet, 900m higher, where you’ll have 100km of pistes at your feet. Beginners will find themselves right at home here, and all levels of skiers and snowboarders will appreciate the nonexistent queues and affordable pricing.
France is known for its massive ski areas – the biggest in the world – and institutional approach to ski resorts, with chain hotels and ski-in, ski-out apartment complex eyesores on the slopes. The skiing at these ski areas is incredible, but some of us crave a more down-to-earth and intimate approach to ski holidays. For skiers in search of quiet skiing off the beaten path, we’ve rounded up some of the lesser-known ski resorts that have managed to remain quaint and honest in this era of mass tourism. The villages have the added benefit of being more affordable than bigger resorts, with an authentic charm and the genuine feeling of being in France instead of in another British or German outpost.
Nestled in the Hautes-Alpes, Les Orres offers 100km of pistes that are suitable for every level. The altitude combined with the south-facing slopes makes the perfect combination for sunny, snow-sure slopes with dry powder snow. In the car-free centre, traditional wooden buildings and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere provide the perfect place for relaxing after a day on the slopes.
Valmeinier is actually two villages, located at different altitudes: Valmeinier 1500 and Valmeinier 1800. Together with Valloire, they form the Galibier Thabor ski area, which has 150km of pistes. The ski destination has preserved its authentic appearance thanks to the preservation of the beautiful chalets and original buildings. An added bonus: the farming village remains faithful to its local traditions, and this is the ideal place to indulge in local products such as Beaufort, Reblochon and cured meats.
Vaujany shares a ski area with Alpe d'Huez, but life here moves at a slower pace than its lively sister village: visitors here have come for the peace and quiet and the excellent skiing terrain. In no time at all, the gondola can take you to the heart of the ski area, where you can tackle the legendary Sarenne, try your hand at the challenging off-piste routes or simply carve your way down the blue and red slopes. Nearby Oz-en-Oisans is another good option.
Looking for a ski holiday away from the masses, but unwilling to sacrifice the quality of the terrain? You might want to consider Saint Sorlin d'Arves, part of the Les Sybelles ski area. Friendlier than better-known resorts such as Val Thorens or La Plagne, Saint Sorlin d’Arves nevertheless boasts access to 300km of pistes. The old village centre is still intact, and has been expanded with new accommodations. The small village is situated at the foot of the Col de la Croix de Fer.
Think outside the box and try the Pyrenees on your next ski holiday – you won’t regret it. Saint Lary Soulan is an excellent option for skiing off the beaten path. Originally a spa resort town, it has since grown into a fully fledged ski village with charming architecture. A cable car connects you to Saint-Lary Pla d’Adet, 900m higher, where you’ll have 100km of pistes at your feet. Beginners will find themselves right at home here, and all levels of skiers and snowboarders will appreciate the nonexistent queues and affordable pricing.
Born and raised in the ski paradise of Vancouver, Canada, I learned to ski before I can remember, balancing precariously on my parents’ skis as they sailed down the hill. I started snowboarding in my teens and am now delighted to be exploring everything Europe’s ski scene has to offer!
