From the moment the first snowflakes fall, ski and snowboard enthusiasts eagerly await the opening of the resorts, dreaming of a magical adventure across the snowy slopes and lifts of the most magnificent domains. When it comes to a truly memorable experience, nothing compares to a ski trip in the French Alps, the dream destination for winter sports lovers of all levels—and even for those who prefer to stay off the slopes. With over 150 resorts integrated into authentic villages, complete with cozy restaurants and accommodations right at the base of the mountains, this legendary French region offers options for every taste and budget.
Thanks to our year-round, seamless flights to Lyon (yes, even in winter!), planning your next ski trip to the French Alps has never been easier. From Val Thorens to Chamonix and Courchevel, here is the essential information you need for a mountain getaway packed with excitement… and adrenaline!
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Traveling to Europe with skiing gear
The good news is that by choosing a direct flight, the travel experience is much more relaxing—and the same goes for transporting sports equipment. All you need to do is book and pay the baggage allowance at least 72 hours before your departure, pack your skis or snowboard, boots, poles, and helmet in a bag designed for this purpose… and you’re all set!
Check the applicable fee per flight segment for your sports equipment under Air Transat’s baggage policy. You can also check the availability of hold space in advance of booking your travel dates!
And note that you can always rent equipment upon arrival.
*Subject to onboard availability.
Getting to the French Alps ski resorts from Lyon
Getting to the French Alps ski resorts from Lyon is simple—another reason why a ski trip in the French Alps is such a seamless adventure. There are two easy ways to reach the Alps from Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport:
- Rental car: Pick up a rental car—equipped with winter tires, that’s crucial—and drive to the French Alps in just two to three hours.
- Shuttle service: For a lower-cost, stress-free alternative, use the available shuttle services. These provide comfortable, direct transportation between the airport and major resorts like Méribel, Courchevel, Val Thorens, Tignes, Val d’Isère, and Les Menuires.
Want to spend a weekend exploring Lyon and its famous food scene before heading to the mountains? Here’s my pro tip: from the Lyon Part-Dieu train station, take a direct train to Annecy, Grenoble, or Bourg-Saint-Maurice (near the ski areas) in under two hours. It’s a unique and perfectly wintry way to travel!
Choosing the best ski resorts in France
From December through April, the French Alps are alive with skiing and a range of winter activities. The region is divided into two distinct massifs, offering opportunities and ski runs for every skill level, from advanced skiers to beginners.
- The Northern Alps (e.g., Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Les 3 Vallées) feature what is reliably the best snow conditions, high-altitude resorts, and charming villages.
- The Southern Alps (e.g., Serre Chevalier) boast a milder, sunnier climate and a more relaxed atmosphere.
To help you plan your ski trip in the French Alps, here’s an overview of the region’s top ski domains.
Les 3 Vallées resorts — one of the largest ski areas in the world!
As one of the largest interconnected ski areas in the world, it boasts 600 kilometers of connected slopes and 157 ski lifts. Home to Europe’s highest resort, Val Thorens (2,300 meters), it’s also known for its legendary après-ski (with the must-visit La Folie Douce). For unparalleled luxury, Courchevel offers Michelin-starred dining, 5-star lodging, and designer boutiques. Don’t forget the popular intermediate slopes of Méribel.
Accommodation: Le Hob Orelle is a hidden gem in Les 3 Vallées, offering a peaceful, affordable, ski-in/ski-out stay with easy access to winter activities and mountain restaurants.
Tignes – Val d’Isère
With over 300 kilometers of runs and 85 lifts, Tignes and Val d’Isère are celebrated for their excellent, consistent snow conditions. Tignes is popular with party-goers and athletes, offering many bars and après-ski activities. Val d’Isère is a favorite for advanced skiers and food lovers, known for its gourmet mountain restaurants and refuges.
Accommodation: The Le Refuge de Solaise hotel provides a luxury stay high on the slopes with spectacular mountain views.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc — the most iconic ski area in France
Located in Haute-Savoie, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is the most mythic of the Northern French Alps, with a unique history deeply connected to mountaineering since the 16th century. People can ski legendary slopes while admiring the spectacular landscape of rocky peaks and the majestic Mont Blanc, the highest summit in Western Europe (4,810 meters). A visit to the village, the site of the first Winter Olympics, is an essential stop to fully experience the destination.
Accommodation: The Big Sky hotel offers a lively atmosphere and a unique Mont Blanc panorama, perfect for couples or families.
Les Portes du Soleil
Les Portes du Soleil doesn’t just offer great skiing—it offers an international challenge! Ski 580 kilometers right into Switzerland and back, then conquer your first slopes on the massive 310 km network of beginner-friendly green and blue ski runs. It’s truly a domain built for all, with vibrant home bases like the entirely pedestrian Avoriaz 1800 and the bustling, traditional village of Morzine-Les Gets.
Accommodation: Le Boutique B&B Chalet Nono is perfect for a romantic getaway in a traditional wooden chalet near Morzine village.
Paradiski
Linked by the spectacular Vanoise Express cable car in the famed Vanoise National Park, the resorts of Les Arcs/Peisey-Vallandry and La Plagne cover 425 kilometers of slopes at elevations between 1,200 and 3,225 meters. Paradiski has something for everyone—from advanced skiers to novices and intermediates—with Les Arcs being particularly popular with families.
Accommodation: The Wanderful Life mountain refuge offers six rooms with shared spaces in a laid-back atmosphere and a prime, walkable location near the Les Arcs 1600 resort.
Serre Chevalier
In the Southern Alps, Serre Chevalier benefits from fantastic sunshine, making it a great choice for families. Those who enjoy history and activities beyond skiing will appreciate a walk through Briançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Vauban fortifications. Nearby, the Écrins National Park is an incredible destination and playground for fresh air and adventure.
Accommodation: The Grand Hôtel & Spa Nuxe provides a relaxing retreat with direct access to the Serre Chevalier ski runs.
Cover photo credit: B. Becker/Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Tourisme
