French ski resorts: ranking of the most popular destinations this winter

Between the desire for snow and the desire for fresh air, ski resorts are once again in the spotlight this winter. Research is gaining ground, as families aim for flexibility and budget. So destinations that combine reliable snow cover and easy access are coming out on top.

2024 ski resort trends in France

Tignes attracts visitors for its altitude and reliable snow. Connected to Val d’Isère, it offers around 300 km of pistes.
This means that the ski area remains attractive when the rain-snow limit rises in the middle of the season.

The latest press rankings confirm an Alpine top three. These include iconic villages, but also XXL ski areas and well-appointed off-ski offerings. What’s more, ski resorts that offer a secure ski-in/ski-out return are attracting short-stay customers. As a result, the combination of transport, accommodation and ski pass is just as important as the size of the resort.

How to choose your ski resorts and the signals to follow

Val d’Isère plays the sports card and the charm of the Avenue Olympique. With Tignes, the terrain reaches almost 300 km and a summit at over 3,400 m.
On the other hand, the heart of the village keeps its shops within walking distance, which makes life easier without a car.

“The mountains attract when they reassure you about snow, access and price.”

Success is reflected not only in bookings, but also in search volumes. For ski resorts, online reputation is built on a clear, easy-to-read offer, supported by reliable images. What’s more, a well-thought-out calendar of events keeps regulars coming back and reassures first-time visitors. As a result, resorts that tell a simple story make lasting progress.

Savoie’s flagship territories: focus on ski resorts

Courchevel is one of the world’s largest linked ski areas, with slopes from 1300 to 1850. The 3 Valleys boast some 600 km of pistes and a fast lift network.
Easy skiing to Méribel remains a constant asset for mixed groups.

• Compare the altitude of the village with that of the summit.
• Check the technical opening date of the lifts.
• Check the local weather forecast on D-3 and D-1.
• Book courses and equipment in advance.
• Have a plan B for off-ski days.

Méribel naturally links the slopes and simplifies crossings. The resort offers a solid family offering and easy access to day-care centers.
In this way, the ski resorts in the area maintain a real coherence of valleys for all levels.

La Plagne stretches out on plateaus like few other ski resorts. Connected to Les Arcs, the Paradiski area boasts almost 425 km of pistes.
And the choice of modular accommodation helps large tribes and tight budgets.

Portes du Soleil and Mont-Blanc: two clusters of ski resorts

Les Gets has a village atmosphere and easy access. The link to the Portes du Soleil opens up to some 600 km of international ski trails, depending on conditions.
Beginners will soon be able to enjoy long, panoramic walks and play areas.

Chamonix is inspired by Mont-Blanc at 4,809 m and its legendary itineraries. The ski areas are scattered, but the overall offer remains very dense, with efficient bus and ski-bus services.
What’s more, these ski resorts attract skiers, mountaineers and lovers of great views.

Beyond borders and useful pointers for your ski resorts

Grimentz, on the Valais side, offers an unspoilt village and well-facing faces. The link with Zinal extends to around 115 km of pistes, depending on season and opening times.
In short, it’s an interesting Swiss option when Savoie is full.

As far as the budget is concerned, booking early limits price swings on ski passes and rentals. Many ski resorts now offer dynamic online offers with family benefits. Also, taking the train or carpooling reduces costs, stress and delays due to the road. So arriving the day before avoids a first day cut short by fatigue.

Snow safety remains the sinews of war for any holiday. Aiming for an altitude of 1,800 m village whenever possible is reassuring from January until March. On the other hand, some mid-mountain ski resorts shine in spring, when the mild weather returns. In short, the right choice combines weather, access, the school calendar and the desire for a particular style of skiing.

• ski resorts