A Quick Guide to Skiing in the Alps

Skiing holidays are a great way to spend a relaxing few weeks in the winter. One of the most popular places in Europe to go skiing is in the French Alps, and there are many excellent resorts to choose from in this lovely region. Here is a guide to skiing in the Alps so you can plan your holiday properly.

Choosing Your Resort

The first and most important thing you need to do is select your resort, and your choice will depend on a range of factors. For example, if you are travelling as a family, there are certain features that you may want to look for, including a resort that is quieter and which has childcare facilities, ski schools, fun activities other than skiing, beginner ski runs, nursery slopes, entertainment, and even the possibility of being traffic free.

If you are travelling with a group of friends, your main concern may be the bars, restaurants and other entertainment. If you are an advanced skier, you will want to ensure you choose a resort that has a good number of more challenging runs.

Other things to consider when you go skiing in the Alps include the views, the off-piste action and the prices for lift passes and accommodation, all of which can influence your decision.

Have a look at some of the best resorts in the Alps, including the Three Valleys resorts like Val Thorens, La Tania and Meribel, and the Paradiski resorts including La Plagne and Les Arcs, and try to find one that stands out to you.

Choosing Your Accommodation

Different resorts naturally have different types of accommodation. Some will have a wide range of options, whereas some are heavily focused on one type. Apartment-style accommodation is popular for a holiday skiing in the Alps, but you may also be able to choose from a number of hotels depending on where you go. Chalets, both catered and self-catered, are also popular. As well as the type of accommodation, you'll need to consider its location. For example, some chalets may be ski-in/ski-out, whereas others may be further from the action.

How to Get There

Plane, train and car are the three ways to get to the resorts in the Alps, and they all have their benefits. If you are travelling from the UK and you are taking all your own equipment, driving may be the most suitable option; you can just pack your car and drive to most resorts in one long journey over the course of a day, or perhaps stopping overnight along the way.

Flying is the quickest option, but then you may have to arrange transport to the resort from Chambéry or Grenoble airports, and this could add money onto the cost of the flight and take up more time. Train is a popular option because you can do the journey in one go from London and arrive on the same day. Head to stations including Bourg-St-Maurice or Moûtiers and you will often find yourself just half an hour from your resort by transfer.

Activities and Facilities

You may not want to spend all your time skiing, so find out about options including snowshoeing, dog sledding, helicopter rides, hiking, tobogganing and more. You should also find out about other things like shops, cinemas, swimming pools, bars, restaurants and other entertainment facilities.

Skiing in the Alps is a fantastic way to enjoy a winter break. Choose your resort and your accommodation, and don't forget to find out about all the other activities and facilities at each resort to help make your decision. Get your travel arrangements sorted out and you will be ready to enjoy a fun-filled holiday on the slopes!