France

If Austria is the birthplace of skiing in the Alps, France is its adopted home. With over 200 resorts, many of them world-class, there's the terrain, the vibe and the convenience for skiers and boarders of all shapes and sizes.

France has long been popular with UK skiers and snowboarders - especially those looking for a quick weekend fix - which means you'll often hear more English than anything else. But ski resorts in France remain popular with visitors from all round Europe, and beyond.

The undisputed beating heart of the Alps is Chamonix. Not only is it the largest winter resort in the French Alps with arguably some of the most challenging terrain, but a Mecca for climbers and walkers in the summer. The valley is presided over by Mont Blanc, the tallest mountain in Western Europe, which not only provides a striking backdrop, but lends the slopes a severity not generally appreciated by beginners.

If you're not so steady on your feet but looking to improve, Les Deux Alpes, 90 minutes from Grenoble, has a good mix of blues and reds. It's also snow sure (in summer too), thanks to a glacier at 3,600 metres. Nearby Alpe d'Huez also has glacier skiing, though this is no longer an option in summer.

Even if you're new to the sport, you'll have heard of many of the more popular ski resorts in France. The Three Valleys, consisting of the exclusive Courcheval, Meribel and Val Thorens are all popular with international skiers and boarders.

Val d'Isere is a good all round French ski resort. There's terrain here to suit all standards, including some fantastic off-piste. It also has one of the longer seasons, with snow sticking round as late as May.

Cost

Skiing or snowboarding in France isn't the cheapest option for a week in the snow, but with so many resorts to choose from, you ought to be able to find something within budget. Accommodation is varied, and group chalets - if you don't mind sharing with strangers - can often be good value for money.

A weekly adult lift pass will set you back in the region of US$300. Expect to pay more than that in Chamonix (though a pass for two adults also includes two children).

Getting here

Geneva, Grenoble and Lyon airports are the main access points to the mountains if you're looking to go skiing or snowboarding in France. Budget carriers and major international airlines alike stop at these destinations. The TGV (train) is also an option.

To compare ski resorts in France by nearest town, city or airport, see our Resort Comparison pages.