Skiing in France is an unforgettable experience. Many French ski resorts are truly world-class, which explains why so many skiers flock to the French Alps every year.
France has a huge array of places to stay, so you can cater to your preferences more easily than in most other places. Choose from ski hotels with fantastic facilities to make your stay more comfortable.
Hang up your ski boots after a long day on the slopes, and make the most of the amenities in your accommodation. That could be a drink from the bar, or a trip to the wellness and spa area - both of which you can enjoy at our flagship Neilson Hotel La Tovière and Hotel Le Menuire & Spa. Our skiing holidays in France are in Val d'Isère and Les Menuires, ski resorts that are packed with things to do - so get in touch with our team today or book online.
The country's huge mountains, high altitude ski areas and an excellent snow record make it perfect for all. From cautious first-timers to well-seasoned skiers and snowboarders looking for some new terrain to explore, there's something for everyone when it comes to skiing holidays in France.
French ski resorts range from small and traditional, where life is noticeably slower paced (except for the lifts), to the well-thought-out, purpose-built variety.
The Lowdown
- Discover Val d'Isere, a world-class ski resort with great shopping and nightlife
- Make the most of Les Menuires, in the heart of The Three Valleys ski area
- Resorts with snow sure conditions, breathtaking scenery and superb cuisine
- Huge ski areas and glacier skiing
- We include return flights and return transfers
- Exclusive hotels with half board meals
- Free, professional ski coaching and guiding for 12 years+
Food and drink in France
French cuisine is famously delicious - and French mountain food is no different. It's ideal for a ski or snowboard holiday with meats, cheeses, breads and tasty snacks.
Breakfast is always a treat, with fresh croissants and pastries, while lunch is a time to refuel with a warming Tartiflette - made with cheese, lardons and potatoes. French cheeses range from mild to blow-your-socks-off strong, so whatever your preference, you're bound to find something that takes your fancy.
Cheese aside, it wouldn't be a true skiing holiday in France without indulging in a crêpe and hot chocolate once the slopes close.
Après-ski in French ski resorts
If you love hitting slopeside bars, après-ski in French ski resorts is the crème de la crème. The wide choice of resorts in France means there's a range of nightlife to choose from. If you're looking for quiet and laid-back option, head to Les Menuires.
Val d' Isère is one of the most famous ski resorts in France, oozing quality, class and style. As day turns to night, there's sure to be a party with live music or a DJ that will have you dancing until the early hours. For those looking to dance on tables in ski boots, try the infamous Folie Douce bars in Val d'Isère. If you only go to 1 après bar during your stay, go here.
What's the weather like in France?
France generally enjoys warm summers and cool winters, but you can expect proper winter weather and good snow in the French Alps - perfect for skiing holidays in France.
The winter months offer different benefits, so you can plan your ski holiday to France depending on what’s important to you. The snow conditions are usually at their best in December and January, but you’ll have to wrap up warm as temperatures can reach lows of -9°C in January. It’s a dry cold though, so it shouldn’t feel quite as chilly as it is. February and Easter is the most popular time for families in the French Alps, and temperatures are a bit warmer this month - averaging between 8°C and 15°C during the day.
How big is France?
France measures 547,030 square kilometres (211,209 square miles), making it the second-largest country on the European continent, behind Ukraine. France is around 2.3 times bigger than the UK. Stretching from the moderate climate of the north down the French Riviera of southern France, the country experiences a range of different climates due to its size and varied geography.
Bound by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, as well as the Pyrenees on the border with Spain, and the Alps near the Swiss and Italian borders. Wondering whether to go skiing in France? The mountainous Alpine region offers world-class skiing and snowboarding, with huge mountains, high altitude ski areas and an excellent snow record.
What is the population of France?
Roughly 67 million people live in France. It’s the second-most populous country in Europe, after Germany which has just over 83 million inhabitants.
Historically, France was Europe’s most populous country, and during the Middle Ages, more than a quarter of the continent’s population was French. Other countries, particularly Germany and Russia, gradually grew until they were both bigger than France by the start of the 20th century.
After World War Two, the population of France again began to rise, and between 2010 and 2017, it increased by nearly 2.5 million people - making it one of the fastest-growing countries in Europe. France is one of the most diverse countries in Europe, with records showing that roughly 5% of the population is non-European and non-white.
Why choose Neilson for your ski holiday in France?
Action-packed holidays tailored to you - that's what we're all about. Our team are here to make sure you get the most out of your ski holiday to France, whatever that ends up looking like.
Looking after skiers and snowboarders has been our bread and butter for over 40 years now. And you can check out what other jet-setters have said about their experiences with us - we have over 1,000 positive reviews!
What time is it in France?
France, like most of Europe, is on Central European Time (CET) during the winter, and Central European Summer Time (CEST) during the summer months. That means France is 1 hour ahead of the UK and you’ll lose an hour in transit from the UK.
France ski deals
Browse our France ski holiday deals and find the perfect adventure-filled getaway. Choose from a range of places to stay, as well as some excellent added value offers on lift passes, equipment hire and tuition.
How to book one of our French ski resorts
If you want to hit the slopes and book a spot at one of our French ski resorts, you can contact our team either by phone or live chat. Alternatively, you can send us an email. We'll be on the other end ready to guide you through.
France travel info
- Departure airports: London Gatwick or Manchester
- Departure day: Sunday
- Flight time from UK: Approx. 2 hours
- Local time: GMT/BST+1
- Language: French
- Visa info: A visa is not currently needed for UK passport holders
- Currency: Euro