Activities France

Most famous activities in the ski resorts in France

France's ski areas offer a range of popular activities that attract visitors from all over the world. Here are some of the most well-known activities in the main ski areas:

• Winter hiking and snowshoeing: The French Alps have an extensive network of winter hiking trails and snowshoeing routes that allow visitors to explore the snowy landscapes on foot. Many ski resorts offer guided tours that take you through the most scenic areas.
• Cross-country skiing: France is a paradise for cross-country enthusiasts with its well-maintained trails and stunning views. Areas like Les Saisies and Vercors are known for their extensive network of cross-country ski trails, ranging from easy routes to challenging terrain.
• Ice climbing: For the adventurous, ice climbing is an exciting activity. Many ski resorts, such as Chamonix and La Grave, offer courses and guided tours for both beginners and experienced climbers. It's a unique opportunity to climb frozen waterfalls and ice formations.
• Paragliding: Experience the French Alps from the air with a paragliding tour. Many ski resorts, such as Chamonix and Annecy, offer tandem flights with experienced instructors that allow you to soar over the snowy mountains and valleys and enjoy unforgettable views.
• Horseback riding in the snow: Take a relaxing ride through the snowy landscapes on horseback. Many ski resorts offer horse-drawn sleigh rides and horseback rides that allow you to experience the beautiful scenery at a slower pace.
• Snowkiting: For those looking for an extra dose of adrenaline, snowkiting is a great option. With a large kite you can glide over the snow and take high jumps. Areas like Col du Lautaret are popular destinations for snowkiting.

Things to try besides skiing

There are many activities that can make your ski holidays in France even more exciting and varied. Here are some of the things to try besides skiing:

• Après-ski: France is known for its lively après-ski culture. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy music, dancing and drinks in one of the many bars and clubs. Places like Val d'Isère, Méribel and Les Deux Alpes are known for their vibrant après-ski scene.
• Spa and wellness: Many ski resorts in France offer luxurious spa and wellness facilities where you can relax and pamper yourself after a day on the slopes. Try a massage, sauna or steam room to restore your energy. Resorts like Les Bains du Montana in Val Thorens and Deep Nature Spa in Chamonix are popular choices.
• Culinary experiences: France is known for its fantastic food and wine. Take time to enjoy a gourmet dinner at one of the many restaurants in the ski areas. Try local specialties like raclette, fondue and tartiflette. Restaurants like La Bouitte in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville and L'Oxalys in Val Thorens offer an unforgettable culinary experience.
• Tobogganing: Also known as tobogganing, tobogganing is a fun activity for the whole family. Many ski resorts have special toboggan runs where you can whizz down the mountain on a traditional wooden sled. Areas like Val Thorens and La Plagne have some of the best toboggan runs in France.
• Ice skating: Enjoy a relaxing day on the ice by trying ice skating. Many ski resorts have outdoor ice skating rinks where you can rent skates and take to the ice. Areas like Megève and Courchevel are known for their beautiful ice rinks.
• Dog sledding: Experience the snowy landscapes on a dog sledding tour. Many ski resorts offer guided tours with experienced mushers where you can learn about the sport and enjoy a ride through untouched nature. This is a great activity for animal lovers and adventure seekers.

Typical prices for activities

Prices for activities in French ski areas can vary depending on the season, destination and type of activity. Here are some typical prices for the activities mentioned:

• Winter hiking and snowshoeing: Guided tours usually cost between €20 and €50 per person, depending on the length and complexity of the tour. Some resorts offer free access to winter hiking trails and snowshoeing routes.
• Cross-country skiing: Access to cross-country ski trails is often free or costs a small daily fee of around €5 to €10. Cross-country equipment rental typically costs between €15 and €30 per day.
• Ice climbing: Courses and guided tours usually cost between €80 and €150 per person per day, depending on the level of instruction and equipment provided.
• Paragliding: Tandem flights typically cost between €100 and €200 per person, depending on flight length and destination.
• Horseback riding in the snow: Prices for horse-drawn sleigh rides and horseback rides vary, but expect to pay between €30 and €80 per person for a one to two hour ride.
• Snowkiting: Introductory courses and lessons usually cost between €100 and €200 per person per day, including equipment.
• Apre-ski: Prices for drinks and snacks vary depending on the bar or club, but expect to pay around €5 to €10 for a drink. Some places also charge a cover charge or entrance fee.
• Spa and wellness: Access to spa and wellness facilities usually costs between €20 and €50 per day. Massages and treatments typically cost between €50 and €150, depending on the type and length of treatment.
• Culinary experiences: Prices for gourmet dinners vary depending on the restaurant, but expect to pay between €50 and €150 per person for a full menu with wine.
• Tobogganing: Toboggan rental usually costs between €5 and €15 per day. Some ski resorts also charge a small fee for access to toboggan runs.
• Ice skating: Skate rental typically costs between €5 and €10. Access to ice rinks usually costs between €5 and €15.
• Dog sledding: Guided tours usually cost between €50 and €150 per person, depending on the length of the tour and destination.