A ski holiday can be shorthand for a break involving any winter sport... and there are plenty of them to enjoy in the French mountains whilst you’re there – talk about action packed! Have you considered all the options? Downhill skiing
The main activity. Very pleasant on well-packed slopes for easy descents. Parabolic skis whose narrow form is inspired from surfing, give you better sensations on turns. Free ride skis are supposedly better adapted to snowboarding and off-piste skiing.
Integral part of interior design, or piece of it, the chimney is at the same time accessory and piece of art.
In 2007, Christian Lawler went on his first ski holiday in France. Now, he spends at least seven days each year at a French ski resort and has even invested in a few pieces of equipment. Here, Christian tells FrenchEntrée about his experience. “I love the adrenaline rush that comes with moving so freely down an extremely icy and steep hill. The sense of satisfaction after completing a new run (without falling over) is quite something, but I would recommend taking lessons before you hit the real snow on the slopes.
Needless to say, an environment praised for its slippery surfaces carries an increased risk of injury for holidaymakers, so make sure you have all bases covered when you set off on a ski break in France. This means adequate travel insurance, suitable safety equipment and an understanding of the rules of the piste amongst other things. Ski insurance
Many of France’s most popular ski resorts are located within broader ski ‘domaines’ – linked series of resorts and runs of all colours – which allow visitors to buy special passes in order to explore more and more runs beyond the resort in which they are staying. Here is a round up of the main French ski areas to look out for. Simply pick up your a hands-free lift pass and explore! Paradiski
Getting your child dressed and keeping them warm are two of the greatest challenges. After that, it’s all downhill as they say; well, allowing for the occasional tantrum when they fall face first in the snow.
Ski bunnies are spoiled for choice when it comes to travel options, as the mountainous regions of France are well served by planes and trains. Taking the channel tunnel or ferry in your car or hiring a vehicle on your arrival offer yet more possibilities. By plane
There is no greater pleasure after a long day of hiking than sitting down to a traditional raclette or tartiflette. Numerous cheeses which carry the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) or Protégée (AOP) label are produced in the French Mountains. Enjoy these delicious regional products as a snack, a main ingredient, an accompaniment, or an elegant finish to the meal. Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
There’s always something fun and exciting going on in the French mountains and the new winter season 2011/12 is no exception. The Ski France resorts show yet again that when it comes to winter holidays, there are is a huge selection of great cultural events, parties and festivals for everyone. And that’s even before we think about sporting occasions both grand and humble, which take centre stage as usual this season. Here is our pick of the season’s must-see events. Northern Alps
Bringing his passion for the mountains into every delicious bite, chef Marc Veyrat of Manigod is a star on the French culinary scene. Read about his journey to reach this envied position.
If life in the resorts feels carefree, particularly while you ski, it is not just by chance! Behind the scenes, seasonal and year-round employees work around the clock to assure that your holiday is secure and enjoyable. Who are these professionals whose work is to guarantee an unforgettable vacation? Slope Maintenance Crew
Sometimes a walk through the ski resort can hold unexpected surprises ! You may cross oversized animals, meticulously chiseled carriages, fantastic flowers…created by virtuosos of the chainsaw and the ice pick, these ice sculptures will enchant the whole family.
A successful mountain holiday means knowing how to take full advantage of your time, even when the skiing is over ! Whether you like dancing until dawn, romantic evenings for two, or fun family activities, the resorts have what it takes to keep you entertained all night long !
In their colours and fabrics, the trends for winter 2010 play the nature card and return to the source.
More than just a passing fancy, the spa is now a standard in the services proposed by most French ski resorts. A pause “for you” once considered a luxury, now accessible – and recommended – for everyone.