France has no shortage of ski resorts, but a handful provide a considerably more luxurious way to experience the Alps. Here, exceptional terrain is matched by Michelin-starred restaurants, impressive private chalets and mountain villages where there’s just as much to enjoy away from the pistes.
Each of these six French ski destinations have been recommended by experts at the highly rated The Luxury Chalet Company. To note, each resort has its own take on a luxury Alpine holiday.
Courchevel 1850
Courchevel 1850 is the most glamorous of Courchevel’s villages, with luxury hotels and chalets lining its slopes and designer boutiques concentrated around La Croisette. Its dining scene is just as impressive, with Michelin-starred restaurants alongside stylish mountain venues for long lunches between runs.
The skiing is every bit as impressive. Courchevel has 150 kilometres of pistes of its own and direct links into Les 3 Vallées, opening up around 600 kilometres across the wider ski area. Beginners have plenty of gentle terrain, while experienced skiers can head towards La Saulire and tackle more demanding runs such as Combe de la Saulire.
If you’re after exceptional skiing alongside fine dining, luxury shopping and some of the Alps’ most impressive accommodation, 1850 is a top choice.
Courchevel 1650
Just down the mountain, Courchevel 1650 feels noticeably different. Now known as Courchevel Moriond, the village is located on a naturally sunny plateau and is more laid-back than its famous neighbour. Restaurants and bars keep evenings lively, but the village is also particularly well suited to families.
Much of the pleasure here comes from how easy the days can feel. Wide, sunny pistes make for enjoyable, unhurried skiing, with plenty of approachable terrain for families and less experienced skiers. Lunch can stretch a little longer on a sunny terrace before another run home, while those looking for more mileage still have the rest of Courchevel and Les 3 Vallées within reach.
There are great restaurants, bars and luxury chalets here too; 1650 has a distinctly easy-going atmosphere of its own. For a more understated side of Courchevel, 1650 is an appealing alternative.
Méribel
Location is one of Méribel’s greatest advantages. Sitting in the middle of Les 3 Vallées, it puts both Courchevel and the Belleville Valley within easy skiing distance. That makes it an excellent base for anyone intent on exploring as much of the 600-kilometre domain as possible.
The resort itself has a more traditional look than many purpose-built French ski destinations. Timber-and-stone chalets spread across the valley, backed by forested slopes and mountain scenery. Méribel Centre has the liveliest concentration of restaurants, bars and shops, while nearby villages provide quieter alternatives.
It’s a resort that works particularly well for families and groups. There is plenty of intermediate terrain and a good choice of ski schools, while more experienced skiers have Les 3 Vallées on the doorstep. Add an excellent collection of private chalets, and Méribel has plenty going for it both on and off the slopes.
Tignes
Tignes is a resort where the skiing takes centre stage. Its highest villages sit at around 2,100 metres, with lifts climbing above 3,000 metres towards the Grande Motte. The altitude supports a long season and gives skiers access to high-mountain terrain when conditions lower down can be less predictable.
Together with neighbouring Val d’Isère, Tignes forms a vast ski area with 300 kilometres of pistes. Terrain suits all abilities, while more confident skiers will find plenty of challenging slopes, from steep descents and demanding pistes to off-piste alternatives.
The resort’s purpose-built architecture sets it apart from the traditional chalet villages found elsewhere in the French Alps. There are plenty of excellent places to stay off the slopes too, with sophisticated hotels, luxurious private chalets, spas and excellent restaurants.
Chamonix
Few French ski resorts feel quite like Chamonix. Sitting beneath Mont Blanc, the town has long been a favourite of climbers, skiers and adventurers, and that heritage remains part of its character. This is not your typical purpose-built resort. It is a real mountain town, with busy streets, restaurants and bars that attract an international crowd.
Rather than one connected ski area, Chamonix has slopes in different parts of the valley. Brévent-Flégère has sunny slopes and superb views towards Mont Blanc, while Grands Montets is known for steeper terrain and freeriding. Experienced skiers can take on the famous Vallée Blanche with a qualified mountain guide.
Luxury in Chamonix feels relatively understated. Historic hotels and contemporary chalets sit near climbing shops, mountain bars, and excellent restaurants. Together, they give Chamonix a character unlike anywhere else in the French Alps.
Val d’Isère
Val d’Isère takes its skiing seriously, but there’s more to the resort than its slopes. Its historic centre retains traditional stone and timber buildings, while smart hotels, luxury chalets, restaurants and bars have made it one of the most fashionable resorts in the French Alps.
Together with Tignes, Val d’Isère provides access to 300 kilometres of pistes, with lifts reaching above 3,000 metres. The terrain is varied, from easy nursery slopes to long reds, demanding black runs and plenty of off-piste. Bellevarde is closely associated with the resort’s sporting history, having hosted Olympic alpine skiing events, and is a focal point for more challenging terrain.
Off the mountain, there’s a lively après-ski scene, fine dining and an excellent choice of private chalets. Despite its international reputation, the old village retains much of its traditional Alpine character.
Finding Your Place in the French Alps
The right resort ultimately comes down to how you want to enjoy your time in the mountains and who you’re travelling with. You might prioritise easy access to the slopes, a lively village atmosphere, excellent dining or plenty to enjoy away from the slopes.
Once you’ve decided where to go, The Luxury Chalet Company has a collection of luxury private chalets in all six of these resorts and beyond. Get in touch with our team, and we’ll help you find a chalet that suits how you want to spend your time in the Alps, complete with the facilities and services that matter to you.
Words and Images: The Luxury Chalet Company
