How to choose the best ski resort in France and Switzerland for your next vacation ?

For those lucky enough to plan a ski vacation, it’s time to book your stay! But before that, a crucial question arises: which ski resort to choose? With over 300 resorts spread across five mountain ranges in France and numerous resorts in Switzerland, the options are many. Here are some key questions to help you make the right choice.

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Ski Resort

Unless you are a fan of last-minute travel, choosing your ski destination requires some prior research, typically around criteria like altitude, resort size, and budget. To help you find THE perfect resort, here are some simple questions to ask yourself. Your answers will guide your choice!

Who Are You Traveling With?

If you are traveling with family, as a couple, or with friends, your ideal resort will vary. For families with young children, avoid high-altitude resorts. Altitude can have adverse effects on young children, and temperatures are colder. The "Famille Plus" label in France and similar labels in Switzerland are good indicators. These labels are awarded based on family-friendly facilities and services (nurseries, ski schools, entertainment, etc.). Conversely, a group of friends might prefer a lively, festive resort, while a couple might look for a more "cocooning" resort.

What Is Your Ski Level?

Beginner skiers will feel comfortable in small resorts, often located at lower altitudes and mainly featuring green and blue slopes, perfect for learning. Intermediate to advanced skiers will prefer larger ski areas offering a variety of slopes for all levels. For those who want to avoid skiing on the same slopes all the time, opt for resorts connected to domains with over 200 km of slopes.

When Are You Traveling?

If you are traveling in the heart of winter (January or February), the snow coverage is generally at its peak and covers all mountain ranges. However, if you plan to travel at the beginning or end of the season, when snow may be less abundant, it is better to choose high-altitude resorts (above 1,800 m) equipped with snow cannons, both in France and Switzerland.

What Is Your Budget and Trip Duration?

In general, the larger the ski area, the higher the cost of lift passes and accommodations. For tight budgets, smaller and medium-sized resorts are more suitable. Note that some large resorts offer significant discounts during low season (January and April) with packaged deals (passes + accommodations). Also, consider "Early Booking" offers. If you are staying for less than a week, choose a resort easily accessible from your home, with online services to save time (online booking of passes and equipment).

How Are You Traveling?

Depending on your mode of transportation (car, train, or plane), resorts are more or less accessible. By car, there are no constraints unless you prefer to avoid mountain roads. In that case, choose resorts close to cities. By train, only a few resorts are well-connected to train stations, such as Les Arcs with direct funicular access from Bourg Saint-Maurice station. If you are flying, choose resorts connected by shuttles to airports.

What Ambiance Are You Looking For?

Whether you enjoy lively après-ski activities or prefer calm and authenticity, your choice of resort will differ. Generally, the larger the resort, the more entertainment options are available. This also applies to off-ski activities. For a relaxing stay, choose village resorts with a friendly atmosphere and wellness facilities like aquatic centers.

The ESI: Your Partner for Personalized Ski Lessons

Whether you choose a resort in France or Switzerland, the International Ski Schools (ESI) are there to offer you personalized ski lessons tailored to all levels. With a network of passionate professionals, the ESI guarantees quality learning in a friendly, personalized environment. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, child or adult, ESI instructors will help you progress while having fun. Moreover, ESI offers a wide range of winter activities, including snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and more, to make your stay an unforgettable experience.

Further Research on Ski Resorts

After answering these questions, you should have a clearer idea of the type of resort that suits you. To refine your choice, check the profiles of resorts in the region you are interested in. Use available filters (all-in-one, all levels, family resort, snowpark, beginner, après-ski, small ski area, intermediate, expert), compare accommodation and lift pass offers, and read user reviews on Skiinfo. This information will help you quickly create a list of resorts that match your preferences (resort size, altitude, ambiance, budget, mountain range, travel period).

Finally, consulting comparisons between major French and Swiss resorts can also help you decide between two potential choices for your next ski vacation.