The French Alps have been popular with skiers for generations, thanks to their reliable snowfall, stunning scenery, and comfortable accommodations, including of course, the traditional chalet.
1. Val d’Isère
Situated close to the Italian border, offers everything that winter sports enthusiasts need in one resort.
Part of the wider Espace Killy ski area, Val d’Isère boasts slopes for skiers of all abilities, including the infamous Face de Bellevarde, the 1992 Olympic course. Adventurous skiers can even head off-piste, while beginners are well catered for on the nursery slopes.
Enjoy the lively après-ski scene in Val d’Isère with dinner at one of the resort's top restaurants, including the Michelin-starred L'Atelier Edmond, which services a fine-dining take on traditional Alpine dishes.
2. Courchevel Ski Resort
The ski resort is built around five picturesque Alpine villages, and makes up part of Les Trois Vallées, the largest linked ski area in the world, with over 600km of ski slopes and 183 ski lifts. The area also employs over 3,000 ski instructors every winter, for any neophytes in your group!
Courchevel is home to plenty of luxurious chalet rental options, many of which have their own hot tub or even a sauna to get you fit and ready for another day's skiing.
3. Val Thorens
Neighbouring Val Thorens is at the highest point in the Trois Vallées ski area, which makes it an ideal option for visitors for whom skiing in France is paramount. Nonetheless, the après-ski is also a big draw, aimed at a younger crowd thanks to lively bars and the biggest nightclub in the Alps, Malaysia. And if you're looking for something a bit different, try your hand at ice driving, at a specially constructed track built and designed by Formula One star Alain Prost.