France offers abundant outdoor winter activities, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking a fun-filled winter getaway. The French Alps are home to world-renowned ski resorts like Chamonix, Courchevel, and Val d’Isère, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. In addition, many French regions host festive Christmas markets and cultural events throughout the season, making your winter getaway more enjoyable.
If you need help planning your winter getaway, here are the best destinations in France for outdoor winter activities.
1. Chamonix
Chamonix is undoubtedly one of France’s best destinations for outdoor winter activities. Luring adventurers with its majestic alpine landscapes, it offers diverse winter pursuits to cater to different interests. It sits in the heart of the French Alps, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, rugged terrain, and pristine wilderness. And renting a luxury ski chalet in France promises an unparalleled experience, especially with its breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Alps.
Skiing reigns supreme in Chamonix, with renowned ski resorts offering an extensive network of slopes, including challenging descents that test the skills of expert skiers and snowboarders. The iconic Mont Blanc surrounds the mountain resort, offering a breathtaking backdrop for exhilarating downhill adventures.
While most visitors would come here to ski or snowboard, Chamonix offers many other winter activities suitable to every taste and preference. You can join snowshoeing expeditions leading you through enchanting forests and alpine meadows, providing a serene and immersive way to experience the region’s natural beauty. Ice climbing enthusiasts can test their skills on frozen waterfalls and icy cliffs, while husky sledging adventures offer a memorable and exhilarating ride through snowy landscapes.
2. Courchevel Le Praz
Courchevel Le Praz is another popular winter sports destination at the heart of the French Alps. Luring visitors with its diverse terrain, picturesque charm, and world-class amenities, Courchevel Le Praz offers unparalleled opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and many other exhilarating winter pursuits.
Skiers and snowboarders will love Courchevel Le Praz’s extensive network of slopes and trails, winding through breathtaking alpine scenery. These slopes cater to beginners, intermediates, and experts. Moreover, the resort’s modern lift system allows quick and easy access to the slopes, and its wide range of ski schools with expert instructors provide guidance and instruction for those looking to improve their skills.
If you’re not into skiing, Courchevel Le Praz offers many other outdoor activities to suit every taste and interest. Adventurous souls can explore the surrounding mountains on snowshoeing or cross-country skiing excursions, immersing in the tranquillity of the snow-covered landscape. For thrill-seekers, test your limits by trying ice climbing, paragliding, and snowmobiling. These adrenaline-pumping adventures offer unforgettable experiences against the stunning backdrop of the Alps.
Courchevel Le Praz’s relaxed atmosphere and gourmet dining options further enhance its appeal as a premier destination for winter holidays in France, promising visitors an unforgettable alpine getaway in the heart of the French Alps.
3. Les Arcs
Les Arcs is another fantastic destination for outdoor winter activities in France, boasting stunning mountain scenery, diverse terrain, and numerous recreational opportunities. It encompasses several interconnected ski resorts, offering an extensive network of slopes and trails to delight skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Given Les Arcs’ high-altitude location, it ensures excellent snow conditions throughout the winter season. Les Arcs provides ample opportunities for thrilling downhill descents, off-piste adventures, and freestyle skiing and snowboarding in specially designated terrain parks.
Besides skiing and snowboarding, Les Arcs offers other winter activities to suit every interest and preference. From exploring the winter wonderland on snowshoeing adventures to cross-country skiing excursions, Les Arcs has something for every winter sports enthusiast. Adrenaline-seekers can try ice climbing or paragliding, experiencing the thrill of adventure against the backdrop of the majestic Alps.
Les Arcs’ is home to cosy chalets where you can relax and spend time with loved ones after a day on the slopes. It also has a vibrant après-ski scene, which adds to its allure as a top winter destination in France. Moreover, Les Arcs has a welcoming and festive atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and bonding with loved ones.
4. Morzine
Morzine is another destination in France that lures winter sports enthusiasts with its stunning s and diverse recreational opportunities. As part of the expansive Portes du Soleil ski area, Morzine provides access to over 600 kilometres of interconnected slopes, catering to all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
Morzine has an extensive lift system that ensures easy access to various terrain, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging off-piste runs and terrain parks, making it an ideal destination for families and adventurers alike. Like the other top winter sports destinations in France, Morzine also offers opportunities for exploring the surrounding mountains on snowshoeing or cross-country skiing excursions. It also offers thrilling activities like paragliding amidst the majestic backdrop of the French Alps.
After all the fun adventures, come home to your cosy chalet to relax and cosy up with loved ones. Aside from chalets, Morzine has luxury hotels, apartments, and budget-friendly guesthouses. Choose ski-in/ski-out properties for convenient slope access, and stay in the heart of the village for easy access to restaurants, shops, and après-ski activities.
5. Val d’Isère
Renowned as one of the premier ski resorts in the world, Val d’Isere is one of the best destinations in France for outdoor winter activities. It gives you access to an extensive network of slopes and trails suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from gentle beginner runs to challenging off-piste descents.
Val d’Isere ensures excellent snow conditions throughout the season, thanks to its high-altitude location. It also boasts an array of off-slope activities, including snowshoeing, ice climbing, and dog sledging, offering a chance to explore the stunning alpine landscape and experience the thrill of winter sports.
With its quaint cobblestone streets, traditional alpine architecture, and inviting cafes and restaurants serving delicious Savoyard cuisine, you can expect an unforgettable winter getaway in the village of Val d’Isere. Moreover, the resort’s après-ski scene comes alive with live music, cosy bars, and bustling nightlife, creating a festive atmosphere for relaxation after a day on the slopes.
