Which are the best ski fields in France? And what is a ski field anyway?
The term ‘ski field’ originated in Australia and New Zealand. It is often used interchangably with ‘ski resort’, although it isn’t quite the same thing. A ski field describes the marked area for skiing or snowboarding. It includes all of the skiing infrastructure, such as slopes, lifts, snowmaking, grooming, off-piste terrain, ski schools and ski patrol.
Ski resorts often tend to be bigger and more built-up than ski fields offering a variety of widespread off-slope amenities. For example, Glenshee in Scotland might be considered a ski field, with its cafe, shop and ski school, while Val d’Isere in France is most definitely a ski resort with its wide choice of accommodation, restaurants, bars and shops.
Ski fields are ideal for those wanting to concentrate on the skiing and don’t require the high-end amenities (or prices) of the bigger ski resorts.
Benefits of choosing ski fields in France
Ski fields in France offer a quiet and more relaxed experience compared to the country’s extensive, world-famous ski resorts. If you don’t require a wealth of amenities, and you’re only interested in the skiing, then ski fields in France might be the answer. You don’t even need to stay at the slopes. Locals often travel to the ski fields for a day out rather than a long stay. Ski fields in France are often located nearby towns where you can stay for an authentic French Alpine experience.
Best ski fields in France
We have chosen four of the best ski fields in France. These smaller ski resorts are perfect for those looking for skiing without the crowds and are particularly well-suited to families and beginners.
1. Mont-Saxonnex
Location: Haute-Savoie, French Alps
Ski Area: 25km of slopes
One of the small ski villages in France, Mont-Saxonnex offers a peaceful escape with a modern ski area. Nestled in a valley at the foot of the Voirons Mountains, Mont-Saxonnex is rich in Alpine traditions. You’ll find local architecture and festivals celebrating mountain life. It is located close to the Swiss border, just 15 kilometres southeast of Geneva, Switzerland. The ski area is perfect for beginners and families and the views of Mont Blanc are a major draw. Accommodation features charming alpine lodges.
Getting there: Geneva International Airport (GVA) in Switzerland is about 40 minutes by car from Mont-Saxonnex. You can either rent a car or take public transport (train or bus) to reach the village. The other option is flying into Chambéry Airport (about 1.5 hours by car) or Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport (around 2.5 hours by car).
2. St. François Longchamp
Location: Savoie, French Alps
Ski Area: 40km of slopes
Located in the Maurienne Valley, this small resort offers a quiet retreat with beautiful alpine scenery. It’s part of the Grand Domaine ski area but maintains a relaxed atmosphere. The village sits at around 1,600m and the ski area reaches up to 2000m. Saint-François-Longchamp is part of the “Grand Domaine” ski area, which also includes Valmorel, creating a combined ski area with over 160km of ski slopes.
Saint-François-Longchamp is popular for its ski slopes, with runs catering to all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. The ski area features around 40km of local ski slopes through pine forests and snow-covered meadows. The modern lifts and snow-making facilities ensure good conditions throughout the winter season. There are several après-ski activities available, with bars, restaurants, and activities for families, such as tobogganing and ice skating. Accommodation is comprised of hotels, chalets and apartments.
Getting there: It’s about a two-hour drive (around 130km) from Geneva, Switzerland. You would head towards the A43 highway, which takes you to the Maurienne Valley and then follow local roads up to the resort. Altneratively, the drive from Lyon to Saint-François-Longchamp takes about 2 hours (around 160 km). You would take the A43 and then switch to smaller regional roads.
3. Les Bottières
Location: Savoie, French Alps
Ski Area: 17km of slopes
One of the smallest and most peaceful ski resorts in the French Alps, Les Bottières is perfect for beginners and families. It offers a cozy, authentic mountain village experience without the crowds.
Les Bottières is a small mountain village and part of the Les Sybelles ski area, one of the largest ski domains in the Maurienne Valley. Other villages making up the Les Sybelles ski area includes Le Corbier, Saint-Jean-d’Arves, and Saint-Sorlin-d’Arves. The village is particularly known for its quieter, less crowded atmosphere compared to other major ski areas, making it a great option for families and those looking to avoid busy ski resorts.
Les Bottières has 17km of local slopes but the wider ski area offers over 310km of slopes.offers a selection of slopes for all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. In addition to downhill skiing, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails around the area. Skiers will find modern ski lifts, including chairlifts and drag lifts, which provide easy access to the ski slopes.
Getting there: It takes about two hours (approximately 150 km) to drive from Lyon to Les Bottières. You can take the A43 highway heading towards Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, and then follow the local roads to the resort. Alternatively, it is about a two-hour drive (around 130 km) from Geneva. From Geneva, head south on the A40 highway, then take the A43 towards Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, and follow the local roads to Les Bottières.
5. Lans-en-Vercors
Location: Isère, French Alps
Ski Area: 35 km of slopes
This small resort is part of the Vercors Regional Nature Park, offering quiet slopes with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place for beginner and intermediate skiers. The village of Lans-en-Vercors is located at 1,000m and is 20km south of Grenoble, making it easily accessible for visitors from both France and abroad.
The area’s 35km of downhill ski slopes, served by charlifts and drags, is suitable for families, beginners, and intermediate skiers. The resort also features cross-country skiing tracks. The Vercors Massif is an excellent place for snowshoeing, with various routes through forests and valleys offering peaceful exploration of the area’s winter landscapes.
Lans-en-Vercors has significant historical importance, particularly related to the French Resistance during World War II. The village has several memorials and museums dedicated to this period. Expect to find traditional mountain architecture with rustic stone buildings and alpine chalets.
Getting there: Grenoble Alpes-Isère Airport is the nearest airport, located about 40 minutes by car from Lans-en-Vercors. Alternatively, Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport (about 1.5 hours by car) and Geneva International Airport (about two hours by car).
For more information on ski fields in France, visit France.fr
December 14, 2024
