7 highest ski resorts in France for a snowsure getaway

If you’re looking for some snowsure skiing for your next winter (or spring!) getaway, you’ll be pleased to know that France is home to some of the highest ski resorts in the world.

With our climate warming up, it’s never been more important to seek out the ski resorts with high elevation so your time on the slopes isn’t a total wipeout. 

The highest ski resorts in France bring snowsure conditions and wonderfully long seasons. Perfect for making the most out of the ski season. 

I’m here to help you decide on your next French ski destination, whether you’re after lively après, beginner-friendly slopes or the best snow parks in Europe.

From the party vibe of Val Thorens to the family-friendly resorts of Tignes and La Plagne, I’ve selected the very best of the highest ski resorts in France in my guide.

Let’s explore these high altitude havens!

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1. Val Thorens

Resort height: 2,300 – 3,230m

Nearest airport: Chambery, Geneva

Best for: Nightlife

I simply have to start this list with Val Thorens – not only is it the highest ski resort in France, it also holds the title for the highest ski resort in Europe.

Situated at a heady 2,300 metres, it’s part of the extensive Three Valleys ski area that also incorporates the family-friendly Meribel and the luxurious ski resort of Courchevel.

With slopes that reach up to 3,230 metres, the opportunities for high altitude skiing are expansive. 

As it’s such a large ski area, the resort caters for all abilities, whether you’re an enthusiastic beginner, a confident intermediate or a seasoned expert. 

Due to its high altitude, the season generally runs from November to May, significantly longer than many lower-elevation resorts.  

Val Thorens is also famed for its vibrant après ski scene, with an abundance of bars, clubs and restaurants – both slopeside and in the resort itself.

As one of the best ski resorts for après in Europe, it does tend to attract a younger crowd, which is worth bearing in mind if you’re planning a family trip. 

For a luxurious place to stay, I’d recommend the five star Hotel Le Pashmina. Or book into Le Sherpa for a rustic family-run alternative.

Read my ultimate guide to skiing in Val Thorens.

2. Tignes

Resort height: 2,100 – 3,450m

Nearest airport: Chambery, Geneva

Best for: Families

Tignes offers an equally robust ski season that often begins in October and extends through to early May. 

The resort itself is located at an altitude of 2,100 metres, while the highest skiable point sits at an impressive 3,450 metres on the Grand Motte glacier. 

Tignes is part of the Espace Killy ski area, sharing its domain with the exclusive Val d’Isère. Together they provide a diverse range of pistes.

I’d say that Tignes is best suited to intermediate and advanced skiers – the slopes range from leisurely cruising runs to exhilarating off-piste adventures. 

Plus, the resort’s investment in high-quality lifts and facilities ensures skiers and snowboarders experience minimal downtime and maximum slope time.

Beyond the slopes, Tignes is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and a wide array of activities.

These include ice skating, ice diving and indoor climbing, making it one of the best ski resorts for non-skiers. 

For some excellent hotel options, I’d recommend either Hotel VoulezVous in Tignes le Lac or Les Suites – Maison Bouvier in Val Claret.

3. Val d’Isère

Resort height: 1,850 – 3,456m

Nearest airport: Chambery, Geneva

Best for: Experienced skiers

Moving across to Tignes’ neighbour in the Espace Killy ski area, Val d’Isère brings a picturesque village charm that’s hard to resist.

While beginners will be fine here, I’d recommend Val d’Isère for more experienced skiers, as it’s known for its challenging runs.

The town itself exudes a rustic elegance with its chalet-style buildings and enticing collection of high-end shops, fine dining restaurants and cosy après-ski bars.

Speaking of après, the resort is particularly popular for its lively nightlife; they really know how to party in Val d’Isère. 

A number of events attract visitors from around the world, including the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup.

For a dreamy place to stay, I’d recommend staying at Le K2 Chogori or Le Refuge de Solaise. 

4. Alpe d’Huez

Resort height: 1,860 – 3,330m

Nearest airport: Grenoble, Chambery

Best for: Sunshine

Known affectionately as the “Island in the Sun,” Alpe d’Huez is famous for its sunny disposition, boasting over 300 sunny days a year.

I don’t know about you but, for me, nothing beats a bluebird day of skiing!

This resort sits at an altitude of 1,860 metres and reaches up to 3,330 metres, offering a variety of runs that cater to all skill levels.

Alpe d’Huez is part of the Grandes Rousses ski area. It’s particularly renowned for “La Sarenne,” the longest black run in the world – just prepare yourself for the leg burn!

This is another brilliant family-friendly ski resort that combines great skiing with excellent facilities. 

Off the slopes, there is plenty to keep the whole family entertained, including leisure pools, an outdoor ice rink, and fun winter activities like dog sledding. 

Après-ski options are plentiful too with a good selection of bars and live music venues, ensuring that the fun continues long after the sun has set.

For five star luxury, I’d suggest the impressive Hôtel Daria-I Nor by Les Etincelles. Or book into Le Pic Blanc for a more affordable four star option. 

5. La Plagne 

Resort height: 1,800 – 3,250m

Nearest airport: Chambery, Geneva

Best for: Beginners

I’d recommend La Plagne as a top destination for families and beginners, thanks to its gentle slopes and comprehensive ski schools.

At an elevation ranging from 1,250 to 3,250 metres, the resort offers varied ski terrain across its vast expanse, which is part of the popular Paradiski area.

There is a diverse range of accommodation options, although you won’t find a great number of high-end options here. Think cosy chalets and lovely four star hotels like Araucaria Hotel & Spa.

La Plagne also offers extensive cross-country skiing trails, as well as an Olympic bobsledding track – if you dare!

The après-ski vibe is relaxed and family-oriented, with plenty of restaurants and bars providing a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.

6. Les Deux Alpes 

Resort height: 1,650 – 3,600m

Nearest airport: Grenoble, Chambery

Best for: Freestylers

Les Deux Alpes is home to one of the highest skiable peaks in the Alps, perched at a staggering 3,600 metres. 

It also has the largest skiable glacier in Europe, so this resort has got some pretty impressive accolades when it comes to high altitude skiing.

In fact, the glacier means that summer skiing is possible here, making it a year-round hotspot for ski enthusiasts.

Altitude aside, Les Deux Alpes is also renowned for its exceptional freestyle skiing facilities, including one of Europe’s best snowparks. 

This resort is part of a large ski area that offers a unique reverse layout, with easier runs at the top and more challenging terrain below.

Les Deux Alpes is a hub for vibrant nightlife and après, catering to a younger crowd with its array of nightclubs and bars.

For an authentic, family-run hotel I’d recommend a stay at Hôtel Chalet Mounier.

7. Les Arcs 

Resort height: 1,600 – 3,250m

Nearest airport: Chambery, Geneva

Best for: Ski-in, ski-out accommodation

Also part of the Paradiski area, the skiing here is expansive and varied. From gentle tree-lined runs to reliable glacier skiing, it’s a great ski resort for all abilities. 

Les Arcs is split across several charming villages, all offering ski-in, ski-out access to the slopes. 

Families will be right at home in the laid-back Arc 1600, party-goers should head to Arc 1800 for its lively bars, and those who love that rustic alpine aesthetic should consider Arc 1950.

While the ski enthusiasts will love Arc 2000 for its quick access to the glacier.

The après-ski scene depends on which village you head to, but in general you’ll find diverse offerings from chic lounges to casual eateries.

For a fantastic place to stay I’d recommend L’Aiguille Grive Chalets Hotel in Arc 1800. Or for a five-star option in Arc 2000, book into Hôtel Taj-I Mah by Les Etincelles.

Have you been to any of the highest ski resorts in France? Let me know your favourites in the comments below!

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