Top 12 Ski Resorts in France

26 August, 2025

Many people think of a camping holiday in France as sunny days on the beach along the Côte d’Azur, a campsite somewhere by the sea, or castle spotting in the Loire Valley. But did you know that France is also a true paradise for winter sports lovers? The country has stunning, snow-sure ski resorts with vast slopes for every level. Planning to try winter camping and wondering which ski areas in France are the best? Here’s my top 12 list.

Table of Contents

• Summary: Top 12 ski resorts in France
• Map of the ski resorts
• The best ski resorts
  • #12 Aravis
  • #11 Les Sybelles
  • #10 Les Deux Alpes
  • #9 La Norma-Valfréjus
  • #8 Paradiski
  • #7 Val Thorens
  • #6 Serre Chevalier
  • #5 Le Grand Domaine
  • #4 Val-d’Isère (Tignes)
  • #3 Alpe d’Huez (Grand Domaine)
  • #2 Chamonix-Mont Blanc
  • #1 Les Trois Vallées
• Family-friendly ski resorts in France
• Frequently Asked Questions
  • How many ski resorts are there in France?
  • Which ski resorts are snow-sure?
  • Where can you ski on a budget?
  • Which ski resort in France is closest to the Netherlands?

Summary: Top 12 ski resorts in France

Looking for the best spot to book a campsite for your ski holiday in France? The 12 best ski resorts are Aravis, Les Sybelles, Les Deux Alpes, Valfréjus–La Norma, Paradiski, Val Thorens, Serre Chevalier, Le Grand Domaine, Val-d’Isère, Alpe d’Huez, Chamonix-Mont Blanc, and Les Trois Vallées. These areas offer slopes for every skill level, reliable snow, excellent ski facilities, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Campsites in the French Alps

French ski resorts on the map

Curious where to find the best campsites for your ski holiday in France? I’ll give you a hint: most of the top resorts are located in the Alps. Here’s a map with the highlights:

The Best Ski Resorts

Slopes for every level, reliable snow conditions, excellent ski facilities, and of course, breathtaking views – the following twelve ski areas offer a fantastic winter sports experience. Book a campsite here, and you’re guaranteed a memorable camping holiday in the snow.

#12 Aravis

Aravis, also known as the “Massif des Aravis,” is a varied ski area located between Mont Blanc and Lake Annecy. It features four charming ski villages: Saint-Jean-de-Sixt, Le Grand-Bornand, Manigod, and La Clusaz. Shuttle buses make it easy to move between the villages, which are about 5 to 6 kilometers apart.
With the Aravis Ski Pass, you’ll have access to plenty of slopes for both beginners and experienced skiers. In Le Grand-Bornand, you can test your skills on the steep slopes of Mont Lachat. For the ultimate ski challenge, head to La Clusaz, where the pistes are a favorite training ground for professional (Olympic) skiers!

• Slopes (in kilometers): 220 km
• Snow reliability: high
• Experience levels: all levels
• Adult ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €270
• Child ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €205

#11 Les Sybelles

With 310 km of slopes, Les Sybelles is the fourth largest ski area in France. Thanks to the fact that most slopes are located above 1,500 meters, snow conditions are very reliable – especially from early December to late April. With 82 km of blue runs, 209 km of red runs, and 19 km of black runs, both beginners and advanced skiers will feel right at home here.

The area is mostly south-facing, which means skiing here in the colder months is a real treat. In spring, when temperatures rise, the shady slopes under the Tête de Bellard or near Le Corbier are a great choice. Another big plus is the well-connected network – the six sub-areas are seamlessly linked, so you can explore them without ever taking off your skis. The resort is also easy to reach via the A43 through the Maurienne Valley.

• Slopes (in kilometers): 310 km
• Snow reliability: high
• Experience levels: all levels
• Adult ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €254
• Child ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €205

#10 Les Deux Alpes

The Les Deux Alpes ski area, located above the village of the same name, is famous for its dramatic vertical drop and for being home to one of the largest skiable glaciers in Europe. The resort covers 200 kilometers of slopes spread across five interconnected zones: Mont de Lans (1,300 m), Vallée Blanche (2,100 m), Les Crêtes (2,100 m), La Fée (2,600 m), and the glacier stretching from 2,900 m to 3,600 m.
Because of its straight, vertical layout, the area doesn’t offer a huge variety for long ski tours. Still, there’s a large selection of slopes, ranging from gentle, flat runs to challenging black descents. You’ll mostly find these tougher slopes on the sunnier, more welcoming west side.
In addition to excellent ski and snowboard facilities, Les Deux Alpes is a hotspot for freestyle sports. With well-known snowparks and boardercross tracks (mainly on the glacier when snow conditions are weaker lower down), it’s a paradise for freestylers – even in summer. And if you love après-ski, you won’t be disappointed: the lively bars and clubs guarantee a festive end to your day!

• Slopes (in kilometers): 200 km
• Snow reliability: high, especially later in the season
• Experience levels: all levels
• Adult ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €274
• Child ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €219.50

#9 Valfréjus – La Norma

Valfréjus, together with La Norma, offers 135 kilometers of slopes. A free ski bus connects the two resorts, making it easy to explore both. The region is known for its reliable snow and the Boarder Cross Park, a must for freestyle enthusiasts.
Valfréjus has a good mix of easy and intermediate runs, along with some challenging black slopes. The area ranges from 1,550 to 2,737 meters in altitude and features slopes for beginners and families, as well as adventurous off-piste routes for more experienced skiers.
La Norma is a smaller, lesser-known resort with a cozy feel. It’s especially popular with beginner skiers and families looking for quieter runs. Most of the slopes are easy, making it a great place to practice. During the French school holidays (which overlap with Dutch holidays), it can get busier, but outside those periods the atmosphere is calm and relaxed.
Valfréjus – La Norma is part of the ESKI-MO ski pass, which gives access to a total of 347 kilometers of slopes. The remaining ski areas included are Aussois, Val Cenis Vanoise, Bessans, and Bonneval sur Arc.

• Slopes (in kilometers): 70 km (Valfréjus), 65 km (La Norma)
• Snow reliability: high
• Experience levels: all levels, though La Norma is especially beginner-friendly
• Adult ski pass price (high season, 6 days): €215 (€204 online)
• Child ski pass price (high season, 6 days): €179 (€170 online)

#8 Paradiski

La Plagne and Les Arcs together form the massive Paradiski area, the third-largest ski resort in Europe. The two resorts are connected by the impressive Vanoise Express: the largest cable car in the world, featuring double-decker cabins that can carry up to 200 people per ride. With a total of 425 km of slopes – made up of 243 km of blue runs, 129 km of red, and 53 km of black – Paradiski has something to challenge skiers of every level.
Both La Plagne and Les Arcs have slopes mainly above 1,500 meters, ensuring excellent snow conditions. La Plagne offers more blue runs and fun snowparks, while Les Arcs is known for its more demanding trails. Fun for all ages and abilities is guaranteed here!

• Slopes (in kilometers): 425 km
• Snow reliability: high
• Experience levels: all levels
• Adult ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €332
• Child ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €266

Campsites in the French Alps

#7 Val Thorens (Les Trois Vallées)

Val Thorens, the highest ski resort in Europe, is located right in the heart of the famous Les Trois Vallées. With its prime location at 2,300 meters above sea level, surrounded by six glaciers and supported by countless snow cannons, snow reliability and breathtaking views are guaranteed. Did you know you can see more than 1,000 Alpine peaks from here?
With 150 km of wide slopes, Val Thorens offers descents for skiers of every level. The resort is also known for its state-of-the-art ski lifts. Had enough skiing for the day? Then enjoy the lively après-ski scene and other activities (like a dog sled ride or the indoor swimming pool) that make Val Thorens an ideal destination for families, couples, and groups of friends.

• Slopes (in kilometers): 150 km
• Snow reliability: high
• Experience levels: all levels
• Adult ski pass price (high season, 6 days): €320 (Val Thorens–Orelle)
• Child ski pass price (high season, 6 days): €256 (Val Thorens–Orelle)

#6 Serre Chevalier

Serre Chevalier is one of the largest ski areas in the French Alps. With 250 kilometers of slopes, there are challenges for all levels, but the many black and red runs make it especially appealing for advanced skiers. Thanks to its location in a valley corner where heavy snowfalls are common throughout the season, snow reliability is excellent – a big plus!
Although the majority of the slopes are demanding, there are a few green runs for beginners. However, these are often narrow and cross with steeper pistes. Serre Chevalier is also a dream for off-piste enthusiasts. During heavy snow dumps, the larch forests create a stunning setting for adventurous skiing.
The area is made up of thirteen villages spread over six kilometers in the Guisane Valley. Each of the larger villages offers direct access to the slopes. In the smaller hamlets, you’ll need your own transport or use the ski buses.

• Slopes (in kilometers): 250 km
• Snow reliability: high
• Experience levels: all levels, but plenty of advanced runs
• Adult ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €286
• Child ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €235

#5 Le Grand Domaine

Le Grand Domaine, spread across both sides of the famous Col de la Madeleine, is a popular ski resort in the French Alps. With 165 km of slopes, it offers runs for skiers of every level. However, you’ll mostly find green and blue pistes, which makes it an ideal destination for skiing families. For advanced skiers it might feel a little repetitive, but if you love cruising down wide, gentle slopes, this is the place for you. Some runs even take you right through the villages of Saint François Longchamp and Valmorel!
Although the area is fairly snow-sure, the pistes are supported by 356 snow cannons. This is especially useful at the start of the season, when natural snowfall can be limited.

• Slopes (in kilometers): 165 km
• Snow reliability: fair, especially later in the season
• Experience levels: all levels, but lots of beginner-friendly runs
• Adult ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €244.50
• Child ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €200.50

Campsites in the French Alps

#4 Val-d’Isère (Tignes)

Val d’Isère, with its traditional village atmosphere, is one of the most famous ski resorts in the world. Together with Tignes, it forms the vast Tignes–Val d’Isère ski area. This resort is not only known for its excellent slopes and snow reliability but also for its link to legendary French skier Jean-Claude Killy. With more than 300 km of pistes, a fantastic ski experience is guaranteed – whether you’re a passionate skier, a beginner, or a family on a winter holiday.
The village of Val d’Isère has a rich history. It started out as a simple farming hamlet but has grown since the 1930s into a leading ski resort. Today, Val d’Isère is a blend of traditional charm and modern luxury – an experience you simply can’t miss!

• Slopes (in kilometers): 300 km
• Snow reliability: high
• Experience levels: all levels
• Adult ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €330
• Child ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €280

#3 Alpe d’Huez (Grand Domaine)

Alpe d’Huez – Grand Domaine, often known in the Netherlands as a famous cycling climb, is at the same time an incredible ski resort. You’ll find slopes for every skill level, but it’s especially popular with fans of steep runs and off-piste adventures. The ski area is structured so that the lower slopes are easier, while the difficulty increases the higher you go.
From the highest point, the Pic Blanc at 3,330 meters, you can tackle some of the most notorious black runs. Think of the ‘Tunnel,’ which runs straight through the mountain, and the Sarenne: the longest black piste in Europe. Prefer off-piste skiing? Alpe d’Huez offers routes ranked among the very best in the world. The villages, from the main hub Alpe d’Huez to smaller spots like Oz-en-Oisans and Vaujany, each have their own unique charm and atmosphere.

• Slopes (in kilometers): 250 km
• Snow reliability: high
• Experience levels: all levels
• Adult ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €278.50
• Child ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €222.50

#2 Chamonix-Mont Blanc

The Chamonix-Mont Blanc ski area, at the foot of Mont Blanc, is a spectacular destination with views stretching into Switzerland and Italy. Chamonix itself is made up of several smaller ski areas, each with its own character:

• Flégère and Brévent: Accessible via older gondolas from Chamonix, these areas are known above all for their stunning views.
• Grands Montets: A busy ski area famous for its challenging red and black runs, plus long glacier descents. Be aware: lift lines here can be long.
• La Balme: Located high in the Chamonix Valley, this area is ideal for families and skiers who want to avoid the crowds at Grands Montets.
• Aiguille du Midi: This offers a completely different ski experience. The lift from the center of Chamonix takes you up to more than 3,800 meters. From here, only glaciated off-piste descents lead back down into the valley. These routes are suitable only for highly experienced off-piste skiers, or if you’re guided by a professional.

Chamonix isn’t just lively during the day with skiers and snowboarders – at night the town comes alive with a buzzing après-ski scene in its many bars and clubs. In short: Chamonix is an experience in itself. The sense of community among winter sports fans is tangible here, in a place where different languages and cultures come together.

• Slopes (in kilometers): 171 km
• Snow reliability: high
• Experience levels: all levels
• Adult ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €303
• Child ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €257.60

#1 Les Trois Vallées

Welcome to the largest ski area in the world. Les Trois Vallées is a true playground for those who can’t get enough kilometers under their skis. With ten different villages and more than 600 kilometers of pistes, the options are endless. This vast area offers everything from gentle tree-lined runs in Courchevel to breathtaking panoramic descents in Val Thorens (the highest ski resort in Europe).
For beginners, Les Trois Vallées has a wide selection of easy runs. The sheer size of the area and the relatively high ski pass prices may feel like a barrier, but for advanced skiers and freestylers the variety of challenging pistes and fun parks make it absolutely worth it. And with 1,800 snow cannons, snow is guaranteed here from November to May.
Each of the ten villages has its own entry point to the ski area, with Méribel in the center giving direct access to all parts. For the adventurous skier, the Grand Tour de Trois Vallées is a must – a route covering three valleys, five summits, and fifteen lifts. All of this makes Les Trois Vallées an unmatched destination for both beginners and seasoned winter sports enthusiasts.
Les Trois Vallées isn’t just about skiing. It’s a vast, beautiful winter sports paradise with a lively village culture and plenty of facilities. After a day on the slopes, you can relax in swimming pools, go bowling, or enjoy the wide range of restaurants – some even boasting Michelin stars.

• Slopes (in kilometers): 600 km
• Snow reliability: guaranteed
• Experience levels: all levels
• Adult ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €375
• Child ski pass price (high season, 5 days): €300

Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in France

Heading to the mountains with the whole family for a winter camping holiday is always a lot of fun. A little extra planning can go a long way! Family-friendly ski schools, beginner areas, campsites close to the slopes, and plenty of activities for children are important things to keep in mind when choosing a resort. It’s convenient, for example, if the ski school is close to your campsite – or choose a campsite where you can easily park near the ski school and ski lifts. That way, you won’t have to lug around your kids’ ski gear too much.
Curious which ski resorts are known for being especially family-friendly thanks to their many beginner areas and ski schools? Les Trois Vallées is an excellent option for families. Other good choices include Les Portes du Soleil, La Norma, and Les Deux Alpes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many ski resorts are there in France?

France has five mountain regions with ski resorts: the French Alps, the Vosges, the Jura, the Pyrenees, and the Massif Central. Altogether, you’ll find more than 200 ski resorts here.

Which ski resorts are snow-sure?

High-altitude resorts such as Les Deux Alpes, Val Thorens, and Tignes are known for their excellent snow conditions. Les Trois Vallées, with its 1,800 snow cannons, also guarantees snow.

Where can you ski on a budget?

Some of the most affordable ski resorts in France are Aussois (French Alps), Super Sauze (French Alps), and La Norma (French Alps).

Which ski resort in France is closest to the Netherlands?

Of the top French ski resorts, Les Portes du Soleil is the closest, located about 1,015 km from Utrecht (around 11 hours by car). This includes areas such as Chamonix Mont Blanc and Aravis. That said, you can also reach ski areas in the Jura mountains at around 850 km from Utrecht (9.5 hours by car).

Do you have tips about ski resorts in France? Share them in the comments below!