When there are so many to choose from it is difficult to come up with a definitive list of 5 top French ski resorts, as they are all great, but the 5 in this list are some of the most popular and appealing resorts that tourists return to time after time.
Meribel
No list of 5 top French ski resorts would be complete without Meribel, one of the most famous ski resorts in France, if not Europe. The delightfully picturesque Meribel is situated at the heart of the trois vallees, or the three valleys, skiing area. The British love Meribel, and it is easy to see why; the traditional chalet type accommodations give the impression of quiet alpine charm, yet Meribel really comes into its own when the hedonistic apres ski starts with a bang 4pm – look out for ski deals to get here too!
Chamonix
Chamonix isn’t suitable for everyone, and is geared toward those skiers of an intermediate level and above and if you are at this level you will relish the experience and a ski break in Chamonix will really push your skiing ability to the limits. The off piste activities are as excellent as you would expect from one of the 5 top French ski resorts, and by taking a guide to the back country you will find gentler slopes more suited to skiers of a lesser ability and also snowboarders. Bursting with shops and bars, Chamonix is a truly unique experience.
Tignes
Tignes is so high in the French Alps that you can even ski in July and August here, and is just about the most snowsure of all the European ski resorts. It deserves a place in the 5 top French ski resorts due to it being suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, as well as a great apres ski and fabulous accommodations. Tignes is part of the famous Espace Killy ski area and is the next door neighbour of that world famous ski resort Val d’Isere.
Les Arcs
Les Arcs is one of those all round resorts that really does suit everyone, whether you want to spend your time on or off piste. The resort is linked to another major resort La Plagne, courtesy of cable car that was installed in 2005 at a cost of 12m Euros. This has effectively doubled what was already a great skiing area to one of the best in Europe, giving skiers a great choice of slopes and literally miles of piste with some of the most breathtaking scenery you will ever see.
Sainte Foy
The last on the list of 5 top French ski resorts is also probably the least known on the list, the chic and exclusive resort of Sainte Foy. Locally referred to as the jewel in the Tarataise resorts crown, Sainte Foy is especially suited to the family ski holiday, with stunning chalets and the amazing hospitality of the locals.