France is probably the top ski destination in Europe as it has such a wide variety of resorts and excellent ski infrastructure.
In addition it's very easily accessible for British skiers with flights to and from many regional airports.
Many French ski resorts open during the third week of December, but that doesn't always mean there will be good skiing at Christmas time! France is probably the top ski destination in Europe as it has such a wide variety of resorts and excellent ski infrastructure.
In addition it's very easily accessible for British skiers with flights to and from many regional airports.
Many French ski resorts open during the third week of December, but that doesn't always mean there will be good skiing at Christmas time! If you've carried out some research when planning your skiing holiday, you will know that it's wise to go for high altitude resorts, preferably with a glacier, to ensure superior, snow-sure conditions at Christmas time.
However, if you are looking that magical Christmas feeling, remember that many top French ski resorts are purpose-built and relatively new.
Whilst they are excellent in many ways, they lack the alpine charm that traditional villages have at Christmas time.
Bricks and concrete box structures are just not quite the same as beautifully constructed wood and stone chalets! Villages such as Val d'Isere have kept their traditional feel with a central square, markets, and attractive stone buildings such as the centuries-old baroque church, which commands a central position in the village.
The exteriors of new buildings are in keeping with traditional Savoyard architecture, whilst comprising elegant modern interiors.
The village exudes a timeless quality, which is not really surprising as it dates from the eleventh century! Some of the most beautiful buildings are luxury ski chalets, a few of which can accommodate parties of up to 20 people.
Val d'Isere, a French ski resort with a unique traditional charm, has a thriving resident population all year round.
Many families can trace their ancestry through countless generations in the Savoyard locale.
As well as being one of the top destinations for all different types of snowsports, there are also various cultural activities and local events which make for a lively local community.
Of course, Val d'Isere also ticks all the boxes when it comes to planning a successful ski holiday.
The resort benefits from an altitude of 1850m, it has over 300km of pistes in the Espace Killy ski area, it has one of the most extensive and efficient networks of lifts, tows, gondolas and cable cars.
Of particular interest to early-season skiers is the famous La Grande Motte glacier which offers two thousand vertical feet of skiing and snowboarding, and keeps temperatures down! A catered ski chalet will take any holiday stresses away and allow you to enjoy a wonderful and relaxing Christmas.
There are many other rustic ski villages in the French alps to choose from.
Some of the best-known ones situated at altitudes of more than 1500m include Courchevel and Meribel in Les Trois Vallees, Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise, and La Rosiere.