The French Alps are the place to be if you are a ski lover and these resorts are perfect top winter destinations for a weekend ski break. As well as enjoying the great skiing you can take in the stunning beauty of the alpine lakes, sensational scenery and refreshing mountain air.
It’s easy to forget about the work week when you can get straight from the office onto the slopes this weekend with these ideal resorts for a short trip.
La Clusaz
As a traditional resort, La Clusaz has a real French Village feel. Visitors soak up the ambiance in the pretty town square with its beautiful church and plentiful shops and restaurants.
The low altitude means there isn’t snow at all times of the year, however the runs are pastureland which means you don’t need much snow to make them skiable.
Slopes are mostly graded easy and intermediate, and are smooth, well-groomed and easy to get to. There are some more difficult off-piste terrains for the more advanced and adventurous too.
Stay in the beautiful chalets with their hand-cut wooden shingles and picture-perfect views of tree lined runs and high exposed slopes.
If you are looking for a raucous resort then this is not the place, although there are many bars here to suit all different tastes.
Why is it perfect for a weekend break?
• Only an hours’ drive from Geneva airport.
• TVG rail station is 20 miles away
• Plenty of beginner slopes – great for families.
Courchevel
At Courchevel you get five villages in one. Described by some as having the best snow in the area there are 600km of pistes and more than 170 lifts. The villages all have their own distinct character so you have a great choice of where to stay.
Le Praz is an authentic mountain village which is a great base for alpine skiing and famous for ski jumping. Located at the bottom of the resorts area, a gondola and a fast chairlift can take you quickly to different parts of the slopes.
Courchevel Village is a quieter area perfect for families and the budget conscious. There’s not too much in the way of facilities but haswhat you need for a short break and has fast lift access to 1850 (Courchevel main).
Moriond is on the main road and is the most conveniently located. Bars restaurants and things to do are in abundance in Moriond.
Courchevel main or 1850 is the largest of all the villages and is the most expensive place to stay. Famed for its luxury and exclusivity it is a favourite for the rich and famous. You should be ready to spend some serious cash if you want to stay in this village.
Wherever you choose to stay you have access to the amazing three valleys ski area boasting terrain to suit all levels of ability from beginner to expert. Alpine Elements have an excellent selection of accommodation choices in this area.
Why is it perfect for a weekend break?
• An hour and a half drive from Chamberay airport.
• So many slopes to choose from which is great for all abilities.
• Fast lift piste access to get you skiing straight away.
Morzine
This proper Alpine town will keep you entertained during the day and through the night. Tucked between the mountains and forest, Morzine is a relatively low altitude ski resort in the Portes de Soleil ski area.
Known as a lively town, if you like après-ski there are plenty of bars and nightlife to keep you entertained until the early hours.
When it comes to skiing, this is another resort that caters for all abilities. The sprawling ski slopes have runs of gentle woodland which is great beginners and a number of tougher runs for the more advanced. There are circuits designed for different levels of ability and are adorably marked as animals.
This is also a great place to sample the delicious local cuisine. Think cheeses, cream and meats all locally produced and also locally caught fresh fish
As an all-round resort Families, groups, singles and couples can holiday here and all will have their needs met.
Why is it perfect for a weekend break?
• Only 1 hour 45 minutes’ direct drive from Geneva airport.
• Morzine is an all year-round resort, with skiing better in the winter.
• Plenty of lively Après ski nightlife options.
Chamonix
Set beneath the impressive Mont Blanc, Chamoix is a bustling town popular with weekend skiers. The old buildings have retained their charming historic French looks and the traffic free centre can be enjoyed by strolling visitors.
This resort is renowned for its off-piste free ride tracks. These glacier runs are not for the faint hearted and are suited for more adventurous advanced skiers. Adventure seekers and those who want to push themselves will be in their element here.
As the resort is very popular you can expect queues for lifts and bus rides, however with such an expanse of space to ski, you will have your very own space in this scenic mountain range.
As well as the immense ski experience, there’s also shopping, hiking, scenic photo opportunities and an abundance of bars and restaurants to enjoy. This really is the place to be if you are an avid weekend skier.
Why is it perfect for a weekend break?
• Just one hour from Geneva airport.
• Guaranteed year-round skiing.
• Great facilities to get straight out on the slopes.
Les Arcs
Known as one of the original French mega-resorts, this purpose-built ski resort comprises of four modern units offering mostly apartment stays for ski tourists.
The names of the resort units are based upon their approximate altitude which are 1600, 1800, 1950 and 2000. The lower two overlook the town of Bourg-St-Maurice with beautiful views and some of the apartments here are very convenient for the ski lifts.
Arc 2000 has been designed to look futuristic and is the highest of the villages offering views from the top of the resort. You can ski straight from your door here with elevators both above and below.
Arc 1950 appears to be the best place to stay if you like a cute more traditional looking place to stay. It is also very compact and a definite ski-in, ski out part of the resort.
As you can see it’s easier than you might think to take a weekend break to a great ski resort. You can be on the slopes within hours of setting off and enjoy a full days skiing. Whether you are an avid skier or a complete novice there are plenty of amazing places to try in the French Alps this winter!
Why is it perfect for a weekend break?
• 1 hour and 50 minutes from Chambery airport.
• Plenty of both open and woodland runs.
• Ski-in Ski out options to get to the slopes quickly.
So many people are taking to the slopes to unwind, destress and exercise on their weekends, and with so many options you can see why.
The French Alps are a great choice if you want to spend as much time as possible in your skis on the snow and less time travelling to your destination.
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