France Ski Resorts

The French are known for their chic resorts, attracting the rich and famous from around the world. Some of the France ski resorts also have a reputation for celebrity spotting but there are those that are family orientated too and suitable for beginners in the sport. In addition to fine skiing conditions and great food and scenery many France ski resorts have a lot of experience in providing safe and enjoyable skiing. One of the most famous ski areas is at Meribel, a favorite with both skiers and snowboarders of all ability levels. There are downhill pistes and backcountry trails. The resort is conveniently situated, being just a one hour drive away from Chambery Airport.

Val d'Isere is another well known spot. The scenery is superb and it is just three miles from the Italian border. It has been a skiing destination since the 1930s, attracting beginners, intermediate and advanced skiers and now snowboarders too. It will show itself off at the Alpine World Ski Championships in 2009. The resort is known for its excellent off piste skiing and there is a ski school for beginners, a Junior Course and a range of bars and restaurants. It can be the base to do some heli-skiing in Italy.

Away from the celebrity circuit, many families and novices prefer to go to one of the less well known France ski resorts, such as Jougne in the Jura region. It is a small area with gentle slopes and most suitable for beginners. Another of the France ski resorts to be favored by beginners is Les Sybelles. This area comprises six resorts and is also popular with snowboarders. There are plans for expansion for shops, supermarkets and restaurants. Holidaymakers like to wander round the traditional villages, explore the walking trails, go dog sledding or chill out in one of the bars.

Many expert skiers frequent the resort at Courchevel in the Savoie region of the French Alps. It was the first purpose built ski resort in the country and can be accessed from Courchevel Airport. Mont Blanc is an impressive site and the resort at Chamonix is situated at its base. This area was the site for the 1924 Winter Olympics and attracts advanced skiers and snowboarders. Les Planards is more suited to beginners and intermediate people, although some like to ski off piste into Switzerland with the aid of a mountain guide. The resort is also known for its excellent nightlife.