Planning on taking your loved ones on a fun skiing holiday in the Alps this year? Our guide to the winter snow conditions in the Alps will help you choose which month and resort are right for you.
No matter when it’s convenient for you to travel, the French ski resorts offer great snow conditions, modern and fast lifts, and lively villages all season long.
December can be less snow-sure, even in the Alps. Yet, if you want to have fun on the slopes, you can opt for high-altitude resorts. For a white holiday, choose a resort above 1,800 meters and serviced by snow cannons. It also helps to head to a ski area near a glacier, even better if some slopes are north-facing.
Here is a list of the best resorts for December skiing in the French Alps:
Early in the month, when snow conditions are more variable, there are far fewer people on the pistes and in the villages. You won’t need to queue up at the lifts, which is a nice bonus.
During the Christmas holidays, when the kids are off school, there can be crowds. However, you get to experience the magical festive atmosphere in a winter wonderland.
January is one of the most snow-sure months for skiing in the Alps. You can be sure to find “powder” and crispy bluebird days. There may also be some heavy snowfall, which will quickly add to the snow cover. Most snow runs are open, especially at high altitudes, so you have more choice.
Here is a list of the best resorts for January skiing in the French Alps:
With the kids back in school, January is the ideal month for skiing and snowboarding fanatics, who want to maximise their time on the pistes. With no queues or crowds, you’ll be zipping up and down the slopes in no time.
Conditions stay perfect in February, too. The cold has settled in, the snow cover is well-established, and the days are getting longer. This is the right month to go skiing at a lower altitude. Enjoy fantastic off-piste skiing in ideal snow conditions.
Here is a list of the best resorts for February skiing in the French Alps:
At the beginning of the month, you can still enjoy the peace and quiet typical of January. Once the kids’ holidays kick in, you’ll experience crowds and queues. However, with more tourists around, the evening entertainment will become even more varied.
In March, the snow can start melting under 1,800 meters. So it’s best to go to a high-altitude resort. The days are sunny and long, offering plenty of time to enjoy the slopes. Due to the warmer weather, the snow tends to be a little softer, so try to head to north-facing slopes after lunch.
Here is a list of the best resorts for March skiing in the French Alps:
With the longer days, start the fun après ski outdoor events, like the famous music festivals. The resorts tend to be less full than in February, so you won’t find as many queues at the lifts.
Snow conditions are more variable in April. The weather is usually settled and dry, with the occasional snowstorm bringing some fresh snow. To make the most of the slopes, head to a resort above 2,500 meters, serviced by snow cannons. Just like in December, a ski area near a glacier with lots of north-facing slopes will give you the best chance of a white holiday.
Here is a list of the best resorts for April skiing in the French Alps:
April isn’t high season for the Alps, as long as you don’t go during the Easter holidays. If you don’t mind some crowds, Easter skiing can be great fun - it’s the last chance to get on the slopes before the end of the season. Plus, the resorts put on some great events to close the season.
Once you know what month is best to go skiing in the Alps for you, it’s time to look for accommodation.
There is nothing better than a relaxing stay in a traditional chalet in the French Alps, nestled in one of the quaint Alpine villages. Have a look at our luxurious catered ski chalets in the French Alps. You can sort through them by resort, group size, and features. Some have a steam room and hot tub. For maximum comfort, why not look for one from which you can ski in and out?
Before you set off, check the current conditions. You may want to book some activities, like helicopter sight-seeing or dog-sledding, in advance for your rest days.
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