Photo: Ricardo Gomez Angel
If you have an upcoming ski trip to France, careful planning is key to having the best time. Whether you’re going with friends, family, or your partner, planning is crucial to ensuring you have the ultimate ski trip. If you’re not sure where to begin, keep reading as we help you plan the ultimate French skiing trip.
- #1. Choosing the right resort for your skiing adventure...
Before you can plan anything else, you need to know where you’re going. France has a wide range of ski resorts that fully cater towards different needs and preferences. For example, a resort that caters to experienced skiers might not be the best option for families.
When planning your ski holiday in France, you need to consider the crucial elements of your trip to ensure you have the best experience possible. If it’s a family-friendly holiday, you might want to consider Les Saisies, with its kids' village and various child-focused activities. On the other hand, as the highest resort in Europe, Val Thorens is better suited to intermediate and expert skiers.
Once you know the best location for your holiday, you can plan the rest of the trip with ease.
- #2. Optimal timing for your ski trip...
Just like other popular tourist destinations, the season you choose for your skiing holiday can have a large impact on your experience.
During December to February, you’re likely to get the best snow conditions, however, this also attracts many other visitors, leading to a crowded and expensive ski trip. The days are also shorter, which means you won’t get to spend as much time on the slopes.
On the other hand, March and early April provide longer days with warmer temperatures. This can reduce the available snow, but you’re much more likely to have a quieter, more affordable experience in the off-season.
Photo: Nicolai Berntsen
- #3. A thorough travel logistics...
When travelling to a ski resort, you ideally want to pick an airport close to your destination. Flights can be exhausting, so a quick and efficient final leg can get you into your room and ready to relax. From there, you can fully enjoy your holiday and all the amenities the resort has to offer.
Some resorts can also provide transfers to and from the airport, which removes another headache from your journey. We recommend calling your chosen resort to see if they can provide this, and if it would incur any additional costs.
- #4. Essential gear and preparation tips...
The final thing you need to consider is what to bring with you. When it comes to clothes, layering is key to fending off cold temperatures and wind chill. We recommend moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers.
Of course, your chosen resort might offer a range of equipment (including suitable outer layers), which can reduce the amount you need to carry. This can help lighten your load, especially if you’re flying, potentially making travel cheaper and easier.
- #5. Remembering sun protection...
Don't let the crisp mountain air fool you! The high altitude and reflective snow in the French Alps amplify the sun's intensity. Beyond sunscreen, make polarized sunglasses your best friend on the slopes. They'll not only cut the glare bouncing off the snow, reducing eye strain and improving visibility, but also offer crucial UV protection for your eyes, preventing long-term sun damage.
Summary...
With these five key tips tailored for the adventurous spirit, you're now equipped to plan an unforgettable French skiing expedition. It's time to embrace the thrill of the mountains and create lasting memories on the stunning slopes of France. Happy travels!
