Going Skiing With Friends: 5 Ski Resorts In France

French mountain ranges offer ski resorts for all tastes, whether you're a skiing expert or a beginner! For those planning a ski trip with friends, here are 5 must-try ski resorts in France.

For athletes: Val Thorens

The resort of Val Thorens is regularly voted the best resort in Europe or even the best ski resort in the world! Its exceptional setting at an altitude of 2300 meters, as well as the quality of its facilities and services, make it a prime destination for skiing with friends or girlfriends.

As the highest point of the world's largest ski area, the 3 Vallées, Val Thorens has been delighting sports enthusiasts for more than fifty years.

It is one of the 5 resorts to discover in France with friends, provided you are comfortable on your skis or snowboard: guaranteed thrills! After spending the day on the slopes, you can also enjoy the many bars and clubs in the resort. In Val Tho, you won't have to choose between skiing and partying.

For sliding enthusiasts: Les 2 Alpes

If you're passionate about snowboarding and freestyle, the 2 Alpes resort is probably the best option for a ski trip with friends.

This resort nestled in the heart of the Écrins massif is the must-visit ski destination in Isère. It boasts an international reputation for its ski area reaching an altitude of 3,600 meters, its snowpark, and its numerous leisure activities.

The 2 Alpes resort also has the advantage of being accessible by shuttle from Grenoble train station and allowing the practice of off-piste freeride.

For party-goers: Avoriaz

Among the top 5 ski resorts in France for a trip with friends, one must also mention the resort of Avoriaz in Haute-Savoie. This destination, located at an altitude of 1800 meters in the Portes du Soleil area, offers a unique concept of a 100% pedestrian resort that is perfectly integrated into the mountain.

Each accommodation is ski-in/ski-out and opens directly onto the ski area. In the streets, skiers mingle with pedestrians and horse-drawn sleighs.

And that's not all! Avoriaz is also known for its party spirit and numerous music festivals. During your stay, you can listen to bands playing music on terraces or outdoor stages.

To relax with friends after hitting the slopes, you can also spend an afternoon at Aquariaz, the resort's tropical aquatic space. This little paradise with lush vegetation features heated pools at 30°C.

For those on a tight budget: Valloire

If you want to go skiing with friends at a low cost, Valloire in Savoie is the place to be. The ski pass is cheaper than in the larger resorts, but the mountain is just as beautiful! Nature lovers will be delighted, as the ski area suitable for all levels offers magnificent views.

Valloire has maintained the charm and authenticity of a small family resort. It is probably one of the best ski resorts in France to enjoy the mountains on a budget, recharge in a soothing setting, and get back in shape away from the crowds.

5- For a sunny holiday: Alpe d'Huez

With over 300 days of sunshine a year, the Alpe d'Huez resort truly deserves its nickname of 'Island in the Sun'! It is the perfect place for a ski trip with friends or girlfriends when you want to enjoy mild weather.

Alpe d'Huez, which was voted the best ski resort in Europe in 2017, is one of the most beautiful resorts in Isère. Its international reputation is due to its exceptional setting on a south-facing plateau at an altitude of 1800 meters.

The beauty of its slopes is matched only by the variety of its entertainment, both day and night. Its famous Sarenne slope offers skiing in magnificent landscapes, between Mont Blanc and the Écrins Massif. It's hard to find a more breathtaking setting!