With the exception of Courchevel, historically considered the polestar for a glamorous European ski holiday, ski resorts in the French Alps have long been overshadowed by the profusion of dynamic resorts across Switzerland, such as Verbier, St. Moritz, Zermatt and Gstaad. And yet, France remains home to the biggest swaths of land, namely The 3 Valleys — where the famous Courchevel is located. Today, the abundance of land and promise of cooler temperatures given its optimally high altitudes have been seducing hotel brands and restaurateurs to the lesser-known resorts, where they’ve begun planting roots and increasing tourism to some of these more untapped corners of the Alps. More evidence of the region’s awakening is the unveiling of [Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express’s new route](https://www.belmond.com/trains/europe/venice-simplon-orient-express/ski-journeys?srsltid=AfmBOoo4n3XDEymNCdgCNo--Geuh4l8iXvWKv1nB3_eTjy2NFe23JBLl) which will feature stops in Megève, Mont Blanc, The 3 Valleys, and Tignes-Val d’Isère come March 2025, making it easier to access these snow-sure resorts direct from Paris. While some ski resorts in the French Alps are more primed for tourism than others, large investments and an increase in capital are beginning to take shape here. All to say: if there was ever a time to go and swerve the crowds, it’s now. Below are the best ski resorts in the French Alps to visit this winter. __Val d’Isère__: Best all around __Who it’s for__: Everyone It’s easy to understand why Val d’Isère has become everyone’s favorite ski resort in France. Its bounty of offerings across both ski, accommodations, and dining presents wide-range appeal. One of the largest and highest ski resorts in France, Val d’Isère’s snow-sure pistes and extended season spanning November through May makes skiing here first-rate. What makes Val d’Isère particularly revered is that it offers something for everyone: from the challenging Face de Bellevarde, a steep World Cup slope that debuted in the 1992 Winter Olympics, to gentler wide open terrain for beginners in the Solaise ski area. Beyond skiing, Val d’Isère has always been a wellspring of casual self-catering chalets, but over the past few years the resort welcomed a bevy of new hotels, from luxury stays, to cool affordable boutique properties that cater to families and groups of friends alike. This advent of new accommodations also renewed the resort’s dining scene, with renowned restaurants like Loulou and Matsuhisa opening sister properties here — blending well with its trove of old-timey Savoyard spots and vibrant nightlife scene.

Where to stay: The opening of [Airelles Val d'Isère](https://airelles.com/fr/destination/val-d-isere-hotel?utm_source=google&utm_medium=yext) set the stage for Val d’Isère’s transformation from a laid-back skiers paradise to an international port of call for winter enthusiasts and gourmands. Situated at the base of the mountain as the only luxury hotel to offer ski-in-ski-out access, Airelles Val d’Isère beckons a new energy to the area, articulated through its various culinary offerings on and off the property, including offshoots of beloved Paris restaurant Loulou, to chef Nobu’s Matsuhisa. Following in its wake is [Experimental Val d’Isère](https://www.experimentalchaletvaldisere.com/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw9Km3BhDjARIsAGUb4nzvZuZocqYxKt_wzfsrQtklzpEJIt52iqdH4VIfU0jt1mXC_C0gRQsaAqtuEALw_wcB), slated to open this December, which will inevitably bring its own brand of cool to the burgeoning ski resort with two restaurants and the sixth Experimental Cocktail Club for the après ski set. For a unique stay that offers total immersion into nature, [Le Refuge de Solaise](https://www.lerefuge-valdisere.com/?utm_source=Yext&utm_medium=GMB&y_source=1_MjU3NjI1MzQtNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D) is located at the top of the mountain of Solaise set inside an old cable car station only accessible by gondola.

The dining room at Loulou at Les Airelles Val d'Isère

__Courchevel__: Most over-the-top glamour __Who it’s for__: Scene lovers with deep pockets Courchevel, the most famous resort in The 3 Valleys — and also the glitziest — has become a hotbed for the world’s uber rich. For years, Courchevel has relied on its droves of Russian oligarchs who’d ascend to its snowy peaks, willfully paying premiums for decadent lobster lunches, slopeside designer shops, and uber luxury stays. Though with the sanctions imposed on Russia’s elite in the immediate aftermath of Putin's war on Ukraine, Courchevel’s biggest spenders have retreated elsewhere, leaving Courchevel somewhat void of its usual crowds. Though to be sure, luxury travelers and gourmands still have their share of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from and plenty of high end shops and luxury hotels at which to spend their money. Beyond the glitz, the resort is optimally located within The 3 Valleys, though with six of its own unique ski villages to explore (Saint-Bon, Courchevel le Praz, Courchevel la Tania, Courchevel Village, Courchevel Moriond, and Courchevel 1850), there’s plenty of slopes to cover for the few that actually come to Courchevel to ski.

Where to stay: Nowhere is Courchevel’s proclivity for luxury more apparent than in the resort’s bounty of 5-star hotel offerings; from the Alpine elegance of [Cheval Blanc Courchevel](https://www.chevalblanc.com/fr/maison/courchevel/?y_source=1_MTkzOTcyOTktNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D) with its three-star Michelin restaurant Le 1947, to the stark minimalism of [Aman le Melezin](https://www.aman.com/fr-fr/resorts/aman-le-melezin), and Les [Airelles Courchevel](https://airelles.com/fr/destination/courchevel-hotel?utm_source=google&utm_medium=yext), where palatial comfort and unparalleled hospitality is done to the highest standard. For those on tighter budgets — not that tight — there are a few noteworthy boutique hotels, like the [Les 3 Vallées Courchevel](https://www.beaumier.com/fr/proprietes/hotel-les-3-vallees/?utm_source=local-listings&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=local-listings) where slopeside mountain living is elevated with modern furniture by Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé, or at the significantly more affordable [Le Portetta](https://www.portetta.com/) located at the foot of the slopes of Courchevel Moriond.

Le bar and Palladio Restaurant at Les Airelles Courchevel

__Megève__: Most romantic __Who it’s for__: Couples Megève is a ski resort that’s not entirely about the skiing. Its gentle tree-lined trails make it an ideal choice for beginner and intermediate skiers whose time on the slopes is peripheral to what they really came for: atmospheric stays at upmarket chalet hotels and relaxing afternoons at the spa, followed by romantic strolls through the cobbled streets of the fairytale village littered with high-end shops and Michelin-starred restaurants, like the three-star Flocons de Sel and the two-star L'Auberge de Montmin. In stark contrast to Courchevel, whose proclivity for luxury is articulated with unapologetic bravado, Megève’s refined spirit is understated. It exudes a feeling of quiet luxury reflected through rustic charms and cozy vibes, making it the ultimate setting for a romantic sojourn in the French Alps.

Where to stay: While Megève is more about charming boutique stays, [Les Chalets du Mont d'Arbois](https://www.fourseasons.com/megevechalets/accommodations/) is a good option for traditional travelers drawn to the reliable comforts guaranteed at a Four Seasons. Despite the brand’s caché, this property doesn’t feel imposing or out of place; in fact, the entire hotel is set within three traditional wooden chalets with rooms swathed in wood-paneled walls and plaid drapery, reflecting the distinct charms of the French Alps. Rustic alpine charms with five star service can also be found at [Les Fermes de Marie](https://www.fermesdemarie.com/), a unique boutique property nestled in a small hamlet of centuries-old mountain farms, which has become a hideaway for European actors and aristocrats. The hotel consists of nine interconnected chalets that create a true mountain retreat with 70 alpine-style rooms offering cozy havens brimming with understated elegance. Blending rustic simplicity with modern comforts, the ethos extends into its various dining establishments spread across the property that make a stay here particularly irresistible. As the first hotel in Megève (freshly renovated in 2019) and located in the heart of town, [Grand Hôtel Soleil d’Or](https://soleildor-megeve.com/) is dedicated to showcasing the local culture and culinary excellence of the area with artisanal chocolates at La Chocolaterie or fine cheeses at La Fromagerie, with events hosted weekly at the lively rooftop barYep . [Cœur de Megève](https://www.coeurdemegeve.com/), located right in the heart of the village as the name suggests, conveniently places guests in the center of the action, while also affording them the intimacy to hide away at the Tata Harper spa. Located just a few minutes from the village, [L’Alpaga](https://www.beaumier.com/fr/proprietes/hotel-alpaga/ete/) is another cozy retreat that has it all: from elegant rooms and suites, to larger chalets for bigger parties or families, as well as a Michelin-star restaurant, La Table de L’Alpaga. For those who do intend to ski, [Zannier Le Chalet](https://www.zannierhotels.com/lechalet/en/) is a chic slopeside stay that reflects the upmarket feel of Megève, featuring in-room wood-burning fireplaces and decadent spa for après ski relaxation.

The terrace and cooking school at Les Fermes de Marie

__Chamonix__: Most technical skiing __Who it’s for__: Advanced glacier and off-piste skiers Nestled at the base of the iconic Mont Blanc, Chamonix is one of the most famous ski resorts in the world known for its challenging terrain featuring an abundance of off-piste skiing, like the famed Vallée Blanche ski route, which extends across 12 miles of glacier and bowl-filled terrain. Chamonix is for those who work hard and play hard, with a vibrant village that offers a wide range of restaurants, shops, and après ski bars that remain open late into the night.

Refuge du Montenvers courtesy @doytcheva

Where to stay: Situated in the heart of town with its iconic white facade and blue shutters, the legendary [Hotel Mont Blanc Chamonix](https://en.hotelmontblancchamonix.com/winter) has preserved its old world charms since it opened in 1849. From its indoor-outdoor pool, guests can revel in spectacular views of Mont Blanc in the near distance. For a departure from luxury, [Refuge du Montenvers](https://www.refugedumontenvers.com/) is a cozy rustic stay tucked high in the mountains, accessed exclusively from the Petit Train du Montenvers that departs from the center of Chamonix town or by skiing down the Vallée Blanche.

Refuge du Montenevers amongst a rugged and sweeping landscape

__Méribel__: A toned-down taste of Courchevel for families __Who it’s for__: Chic, active families A part of The 3 Valleys ski area, Méribel has all the style and substance of Courchevel without the florid displays of luxury or the astronomical prices. Founded by British Colonel Peter Lindsay in 1938, the resort remains a popular port of call for British skiers as it’s the most anglophone resort in the French Alps — promising the possibility of English-speaking ski instructors. As the gateway to The 3 Valleys, Méribel is a well-positioned resort for families across different skill levels, who will have access to the more challenging terrain in Courchevel and Val Thorens to the lower altitude and easier slopes of Méribel. Little ones will also have plenty to do off the slopes with the Olympic Sports Centre, where they can partake in ice skating or skiing. While travelers will have easy access to the bougie lobster lunches in Courchevel, Mérbel’s plethora of mid-range restaurants and family-friendly bars will satisfy parents and their young children alike.

Le Coucou in Méribel. Photo by Jerôme Galland

Where to stay: Situated right at the foot of the Rond-Point des pistes, [Hôtel Le Coucou](https://www.lecoucoumeribel.com/) puts you right in the center of the action. And inside? You’re transported to legendary architect Pierre Yovanovitch’s whimsical universe — where eclectic details like owl-headed coat hooks and scalloped wood headboards make each room distinct. On-site restaurants like Beefbar for meat lovers and Le Fumoir, for cheese lovers, are the perfect antidote after a long day on the slopes.

Interiors by Pierre Yovanovitch at Le Coucou Méribel. Photos by Mr. TRIPPER

__Val Thorens__: Best après ski party scene __Who it’s for__: The work hard, play hard types As one of the lesser-known ski resorts in the The 3 Valleys, Val Thorens has remained blissfully bereft of international crowds who look to the area’s more popular resorts, such as Courchevel or Méribel, for their ski week sojourns. This, of course, is ideal for the intermediate to advanced skiers that get to benefit from skiing the highest ski resort in the alps with its abundance of snow-sure slopes. Beyond the optimal snow conditions and easy access to its glamorous neighboring resorts, Val Thorens is host to a vibrant après ski scene with rowdy slopeside bars, such as the famed La Folie Douce, and Malaysia, the largest nightclub in the Alps, as well as upmarket hotels and affordable chalets across every budget. But for the best party scene in Val Thorens? That’s sure to be European Gay Ski Week, which will be hosted in Val Thorens for the second season in a row from March 22-29, 2025.

Where to stay: Val Thorens has tons of ski-in-ski-out hotels for every budget. For a buzzy retro vibe, [Le Val Thorens](https://www.beaumier.com/fr/proprietes/hotel-le-val-thorens/) remains one of the ski resort’s most historical addresses. Recently renovated, the hotel is host to two restaurants, an indoor pool, spa and a lively bar that extends on the main terrace, while its sibling property [Le Fitz Roy](https://www.beaumier.com/en/properties/le-fitz-roy-hotel/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw9Km3BhDjARIsAGUb4nyIUUXA2GzbLWKizek1YmjFo8gbShDHg-DvFSBGZ2ER_XUQ8Jf-KqsaAov2EALw_wcB), located right next door, is ideal for guests seeking a more relaxing atmosphere. [Altapura](https://en.altapura.fr/) is a comfortable luxury sport hotel optimally positioned with direct access to the Plein Sud chairlift and the other ski lifts in the 3 Valleys area. This season, it adds the Asian-inspired Altayaki to its already packed food and beverage offering, which include Italian and fondue restaurants, as well as its outdoor terrace bar, beloved for gourmet hot chocolate and mulled wine.

__Tignes__: Best for guaranteed snow __Who it’s for__: Those solely here for skiing Much like Val Thorens, Tignes has been overshadowed by its more illustrious neighbor Val d’Isère (which is accessible via a shared chairlift). Yet what it lacks in conventional beauty (the brutalist architecture is more edgy than charming), it makes up for in ski quality. As one of the highest ski resorts in France, a title it also shares with Val Thorens, Tignes’ consistently good snow conditions makes it a skier’s paradise, with terrain that varies from wide open intermediate slopes to technical off-piste runs, to scenic tree trails for when visibility is low and glacier skiing for hot days. While Tignes has a handful of casual après ski bars and restaurants sur piste and at the base (including the world’s highest Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Panoramic set on a glacier at near 10,000 feet), the resort is primarily for travelers who come to ski. Although change is on the horizon with hospitality company Les Etincelles, the owner of Tignes’ only 5-star hotel, having recently purchased ten properties in Tignes, of which they plan to renovate and transform in the coming years. But for now, visitors looking for a vibe after an epic ski day in Tignes, will have to take the lift to Val d’Isère for that.

Where to stay: Tignes is just beginning to ramp up its hotel offerings which still remain in short supply (we recommend staying in Val d’Isère and visiting Tignes on skis). But for those hoping to swerve the crowds, [VoulezVous](https://www.voulezvous-hotel.com/) is a modest and reliable 5-star option that’ll provide all the modern comforts and amenities for a faff-free stay.

__Avoriaz__: Most environmentally-friendly __Who it’s for__: Young families This Green Snowflake-certified resort in the heart of Portes du Soleil in the Morzine Valley, is run entirely on biofuel and is France’s most sustainable ski resort. In efforts to decrease its power consumption, reduce its carbon footprint, and improve waste management, it produces clean energy with the installation of solar panels and recycles waste (horse manure from the Avoriaz stables or mud from the mountain reservoirs) to revegetate the slopes. The beloved Stash snowpark has also been created using fallen trees. Beyond its laudable environmental commitments, Avoriaz is all about convenience, making it ideal for families with ample beginner-friendly terrain, a tee-pee-lined Village des Enfants d’Annie Fambose and snow sleigh taxis to get around village, which is entirely car-free (another nod to their environmental commitments).

Where to stay: The village of Avoriaz has retained its brutalist Corbusier-inspired architecture conceived by architect Jacques Labro in the ‘60’s, which is evident across many of its hotels, like the pinecone-shaped [Hotel des Dromonts](https://www.sowell.fr/hotel/hotel-des-dromonts/) whose contemporary elan carries through to its retro interiors with curvy banquettes, built-in furniture and stretched fabric walls, and playful cocoon-style rooms designed with children in mind, and at [Le Mil8](https://www.hotelmil8.com/), a new 4-star hotel situated in the Portes du Soleil ski area which features a similar exterior reflective of the resort’s architectural identity.