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Southern French Skiing: Your Perfect Winter Escape

Generally, the south of France is famous for its coastline and not for ski resorts south France. The most interesting part is that most people have no idea that you can ski in this part of the country, too.

Just imagine how great could it be to spend a day at the seaside and in the following day to ski on a glacier, a few dozens of kilometres away!

All these french ski resorts can be reached by car or by train from the coast and are the perfect getaway for winter sports lovers! All these resorts in the southern part of France are the ideal destination for a family ski holiday this winter!

Ski resorts south of France

1. Serre Chevalier

Serre Chevalier is the most popular ski resort located in the southern part of France which attract thousands of visitors each year.

The ski area is large with more than 200 kilometres of slopes and 101 pistes divided depending on their difficulty degree.

It is the perfect place for families and couples interested in spending their winter holiday in a picturesque place far from any city pollution.

Serre Chevalier Ski Resort in France

Serre Chevalier Ski Resort in France

The place is famous for its beautiful chalets and hotels and also for the wide range of activities which can be practised besides ski: tennis, karting and many others.

Where to sleep

Rock Noir Spa Serrechevalier is a wonderful 4 stars hotel located very close to the ski slopes, 20 metres away from the main ski lift.

You will have access to an indoor pool and a sauna, while a restaurant and a bar is available on site.

2. Les Orres, BEst ski resorts south france

For those looking for adrenaline and exciting experiences, Les Orres is the right place to spend their holiday and one of the most interesting southern French Alps resorts.

The mountain village is hidden between the forests and offers a wide range of activities for each family member.

Besides the winter sports, in the area, you can practice paragliding or base jump.  Young visitors can take a ride with the Orres Express, a beautiful bobsleigh that sides 1.5 kilometres down the mountain.

There are many designated areas for free-riders and snowboarders and an incredible off-piste route perfect for experts and those looking for extreme adventures.

Where to sleep

Alpin Home Lesorres is by far one of the most interesting accommodations we’ve ever stayed in when visiting these ski resorts south of France.

These spectacular constructions offer a wonderful view of the area and offer all the comfort needed for a great holiday.

3. Orcieres

Offering spectacular views over the valley of Champsaur, Orcieres is one of the best ski resorts south France for families.

In the area, there are about 20 kilometres of green pistes, the perfect place to ski if you are a beginner.

There are also two bobsleigh runs where tourists of all ages can spend some quality time outside.

Orcieres Ski resorts South of France

Orcieres Ski resort south France

Near the village of Orcieres, there are about 50 pistes split as follow 9 green, 17 blue, 18 red and 7 black.

For those with more experience, there is an amusement slope known as Opoualand and a slalom stadium.

Where to sleep

Belambra Clubs Orcieres 1850 is a beautiful residential complex offering apartments with an amazing view of the mountains.

Each apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchenette, a dining area and a balcony. A restaurant is available on site and private parking is free.

4. Val D’Allos

Conveniently located near Marseilles city, at just 2 hours drive, Val D’Allos is one of the most accessible ski resorts south of France.

Actually, there are two resorts grouped under a single umbrella: Val d’Allos-Le Seignus and Val d’Allos-La Foux.

This two resorts together with Pra Loup resort form the largest skiable area from south of France.

Val D allos Ski resort south France

Val D allos Ski resort south France

Due to its position and climate, it offers extremely good snow conditions, modern skiing facilities and a lot of local tourist offers, which with its wooden architecture definitely offer a unique experience.

Val d’Allos, one of the best ski resorts in France is also part of the Famille Plus brand and is, therefore, one of the ski statistics recommended and preferred by families with children.

Where to sleep

One of the most beautiful ski resorts south France offers a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels and chalets to private rooms.

Aux Pieds Des Pistes Du Seignus Valdallos is the perfect apartment for your stay in Val D’Allos.

It has a fully equipped kitchenette, a dining area and a balcony overlooking the magnificent village.

5. Les 2 Alpes

The ski resort Les 2 Alpes has 200 kilometres of pistes serviced by 46 lifts which transport guests up on the mountain each day from morning till late afternoon.

Les Deux Alpes Ski resorts in France

Les Deux Alpes Ski resorts in France

 

The winter sports area are located between 1.280 m and 3.500 m altitude.

It comprises more than 110 kilometres of easy pistes, 56 kilometres of slopes for intermediates and 34 kilometres for experts.

Les Deux Alpes Ski Map Slopes Piste Map

Les Deux Alpes Ski Map Slopes Piste Map

 

The place is ideal for families, intermediates and beginners and is the largest resort from the Oisans area.

Where to sleep

Chamois Lodge Lesdeuxalps is our choice for Les 2 Alpes and it is located in the centre of the village overlooking the surrounding mountains.

The nearest cable car is located 300 m from the hotel, while the closest slope is 50 m away.

 

Conclusion

All these amazing ski resort south of France are the perfect destination for your winter holiday if you are looking for quiet places with beautiful sceneries where you can practice winter sports.

France is full of wonderful ski resorts most of them being located in French Alps mountain ranges.

If you plan to explore the whole country and not just the southern part I would definitely recommend you to include on your list Portes du Soleil from Mont Blanc, Les Arcs, Alpe D’Huez, Val Thorens, La Plagne and La Clusaz.

You definitely should include these amazing villages into your travel plans and book a few nights in one of the above hotels to relax and recharge yourself with positive energy!