Skiing beneath Mont Blanc, five-star hotels, Michelin-starred dining, luxury shopping and high-altitude experiences. Discover five standout destinations in the French Alps, each offering its own interpretation of winter in the mountains.
Chamonix — At the Foot of Mont Blanc
The historic capital of mountaineering, Chamonix attracts travellers looking for dramatic mountain scenery, challenging skiing and authentic high-altitude experiences.
- Skiing: more than 110 km of pistes spread across several sectors, including Brévent-Flégère and Grands Montets, renowned for sporty skiing and freeride terrain.
- Not to miss: the Aiguille du Midi at 3,842 metres, with panoramic terraces and Step into the Void, its spectacular glass box above the mountainside.
- Experiences: the Montenvers train to the Mer de Glace, the ice cave and the legendary Vallée Blanche — an off-piste glacier itinerary for experienced skiers accompanied by a mountain guide.
- Prestigious addresses: the five-star Hôtel Mont-Blanc and Hameau Albert 1er, particularly renowned for its gastronomy.
- New for 2026–2027: the new 10-person gondola connecting Argentière and Lognan in the Grands Montets sector is scheduled to enter service for the Christmas 2026 holidays.
Megève — French Alpine Elegance
Cobbled streets, traditional chalets, elegant boutiques and celebrated gastronomy make Megève as appealing for its village atmosphere as for its skiing.
- Skiing: more than 400 km of pistes across the Évasion Mont-Blanc ski area, with extensive views towards the Mont Blanc massif.
- Experiences: horse-drawn carriage rides through the historic centre, ice skating, art galleries and shopping in the village boutiques.
- Gastronomy: Flocons de Sel, chef Emmanuel Renaut’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Prestigious addresses: Four Seasons Resort Megève and Les Fermes de Marie.
- New for 2026–2027: the first winter season for Four Seasons Resort Megève since receiving France’s official Palace distinction in June 2026.
Courchevel — Luxury at 1,850 Metres
Courchevel 1850 is one of the French Alps’ most exclusive destinations, where palace hotels, private chalets and leading fashion houses come together just steps from the ski slopes.
- Skiing: around 150 km of local pistes, with direct access to the 600 km of Les 3 Vallées, the world’s largest interconnected ski area. Famous runs include the Combe de la Saulire.
- Shopping: boutiques including Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton and Hermès in the heart of Courchevel 1850.
- Gastronomy and hotels: Airelles Courchevel, Cheval Blanc Courchevel and acclaimed restaurants including Le 1947 à Cheval Blanc, which holds three Michelin stars.
- Experiences: the 3 km Moriond Racing toboggan run, dog sledding, panoramic flights and the Aquamotion aquatic centre, with spa facilities and an indoor surfing wave.
- 2026–2027 event: Courchevel celebrates its 80th anniversary, accompanied by a dedicated programme of events and festivities.
Val d’Isère — High-Altitude Skiing and Legendary Après-Ski
Sporty and cosmopolitan, Val d’Isère combines technical pistes, reliable high-altitude snow and one of the liveliest après-ski scenes in the French Alps.
- Skiing: 300 km of pistes linked with Tignes, reaching altitudes of more than 3,400 metres. The Face de Bellevarde is one of the resort’s most iconic descents.
- Après-ski: La Folie Douce, renowned for its DJ sets, performances and high-altitude parties.
- Experiences: paragliding, snowshoeing, guided ski touring and relaxation at the Centre Aquasportif.
- Prestigious addresses: Les Barmes de l’Ours and Airelles Val d’Isère, both five-star hotels combining spa facilities with refined dining.
- 2026 event: the international Critérium de la Première Neige alpine ski competition is scheduled for 12 and 13 December 2026.
Méribel — Savoyard Charm at the Heart of Les 3 Vallées
Wood-and-stone architecture, snowy landscapes and a central position within Les 3 Vallées allow Méribel to combine traditional Alpine character with high-end comfort.
- Skiing: around 150 km of local pistes, connected to the 600 km of Les 3 Vallées and providing easy access towards Courchevel and Val Thorens.
- Panorama: Mont Vallon at 2,952 metres, offering dramatic views towards the Gébroulaz Glacier.
- Experiences: the Mission Black Forest toboggan run, with 3.4 km and 28 bends, together with the ice rink, swimming pool and wellness facilities at Parc Olympique.
- Prestigious addresses: Le Kaïla and Le Coucou Méribel, five-star hotels offering restaurants, spas and extensive winter amenities.
Experience Winter in the French Alps
Adventure in Chamonix, Alpine art de vivre in Megève, prestige in Courchevel, challenging skiing in Val d’Isère or a family stay in Méribel — each destination offers a distinct way to experience winter in the French Alps.
Discover our selection of chalets for rent in Courchevel and find the right setting for your next winter stay in the French Alps.
