‘Tout schuss’ this, ‘après-ski’ that; we all know that one person who goes skiing every winter and makes it their whole personality. You might be left wondering if it’s actually worth the hype, so here’s what you need to know about French ski holidays.
1. Scenic views
If this is your first time in the Alps, get ready to be amazed. Ski resorts are nestled in mountain ranges, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, lakes and natural reserves, which is a guaranteed change of scenery for any Brit. The French Alps stretch across over 600 ski resorts according to recent tourism data, encompassing some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes. From towering peaks like Mont Blanc to alpine lakes, the visual spectacle alone justifies the journey. France welcomed over 100 million international visitors in 2024, with winter tourism to the Alps recording 18.3 million overnight stays during the 2024 season. The morning views from your chalet balcony, watching sunrise paint snow-capped peaks in shades of pink and gold, create memories that go far beyond your return home. These elevated positions offer unobstructed panoramas that you simply cannot experience anywhere else in Britain, making every moment feel like a postcard come to life.
2. Learn a new hobby
This can be fun even if you’ve never set foot on a slope before. Ski resorts offer lessons for everyone regardless of level or language barriers. Professional instructors cater to complete beginners through to advanced skiers looking to refine their technique, with most French ski schools employing English-speaking instructors specifically for British visitors. The learning process becomes comfortable and enjoyable, changing initial wobbles into confident descents within days. Once you and the skis have become one you can enter fun competitions or simply enjoy the satisfaction of mastering a challenging new skill. The NHS recognises that physical activity benefits both mental and physical health, helping to prevent and manage numerous chronic conditions whilst boosting mood and overall wellbeing. Learning to ski provides that perfect combination of physical challenge, fresh mountain air and the psychological reward of conquering fears, which are elements that contribute to improved mental health and increased confidence levels.
3. Booze, food, spa
Let’s say skiing isn’t your thing. If this is the case, you can still enjoy other activities and make the most of the resort’s facilities ‘après-ski’ style. Mountain resorts have evolved into wellness destinations, offering world-class spas, Michelin-recommended restaurants and nightlife scenes that rival any major European city. The culinary landscape alone makes French ski resorts worthwhile destinations, featuring everything from traditional Savoyard cuisine with its famous melted cheese dishes to cocktail bars boasting panoramic mountain views. Many visitors discover that Tignes ski holidays are renowned for their dining experiences and wild nightlife, providing entertainment and relaxation options that cater to every taste and energy level. Whether you’re looking for a rejuvenating spa treatment after watching others tackle the slopes, sampling local wines in a cosy mountain restaurant or dancing until dawn in one of the resort’s lively bars, the après-ski culture guarantees that non-skiers never feel left out of the alpine experience.
So yes, French skiing is absolutely worth the hype, whether you’re seeking adrenaline on the slopes, stunning natural beauty, world-class dining or simply an excuse to indulge in excellent wine whilst surrounded by some of Europe’s most spectacular mountain scenery.
Image by gsibergerin from Pixabay
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