How to choose the best ski resort in France or Switzerland?

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

Questions to ask yourself when choosing a ski resort

Unless you’re a fan of last-minute travel, choosing your ski destination requires a bit of preliminary research. Generally, it revolves around criteria such as altitude, the size of the resort, and budget. To help you find LA station the one that suits you best, here are a few simple questions to ask yourself. Your answers will guide your choice!

With whom are you going?

Whether you are travelling as a 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 there. The «Famille Plus» label in France, as well as similar labels in Switzerland, are good indicators. These labels are awarded based on the facilities on offer, which are adapted to families and children (childcare, ski schools, activities, etc.). On the other hand, a group of friends will prefer a lively, festive resort, while a couple will rather look for a «cosy» resort.

What is your level of skiing?

Beginner skiers will feel comfortable in the smaller resorts. They are often located at a lower altitude and feature mainly green and blue slopes, ideal for learning. Intermediate to advanced skiers will prefer the larger ski areas. These offer a variety of slopes for all levels. For those who want to avoid skiing always on the same slopes, opt for resorts connected to ski areas with more than 200 km of slopes.

At what time are you leaving?

If you’re leaving in the middle of winter (January or February), the snow level is usually at its maximum and covers all the massifs. However, if you plan to go in the beginning or end of the season, when the snow may be less abundant, it is better to choose high-altitude resorts (above 1,800 m). And to prioritize resorts well equipped with snow cannons, both in France and in Switzerland.

What is your budget and the duration of your stay?

Generally, the larger the ski area, the higher the cost of ski passes and accommodation. For tight budgets, small and medium-sized resorts are more suitable. Note that some large resorts offer attractive discounts in low season (January and April) with package deals (ski passes + accommodation). Also consider «Early Booking» offers. If you are going for less than a week, choose a resort that is easy to reach from home, with online services to save time (booking ski passes and equipment online).

How are you going to get there?

Depending on your means of transport (car, train or plane), resorts are more or less accessible. By car, you have no constraints, unless you prefer to avoid mountain roads. In that case, opt for resorts close to towns. By train, only a few resorts are well served from railway stations, such as Les Arcs with direct funicular access from Bourg Saint-Maurice station. If you are flying, choose resorts connected to airports by shuttle buses.

What kind of atmosphere are you looking for?

Whether you prefer lively après-ski or tranquility and authenticity, your choice of resort will vary. In general, the larger the resort, the more entertainment options there are. This is also true for activities outside of skiing. For a relaxing stay, choose resort villages with a friendly atmosphere and wellness facilities such as water parks.

The ESi: Your partner for tailor-made ski lessons

Whether you choose a resort in France or Switzerland, the Écoles de Ski Internationales (ESI) are there to offer you personalised ski lessons tailored to all levels. With a network of passionate professionals, the ESI guarantee quality learning in a friendly, small-scale setting. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, a child or an adult, ESI instructors will help you progress while having fun. In addition, the ESI offer a wide range of winter activities, including snowboarding, cross-country skiing and much more, to make your stay an unforgettable experience.

To go deeper in your search for stations

After answering these questions, you should have a clearer idea of the type of resort that suits you. To refine your choice, check out the profiles of the resorts in the region you’re interested in. Use the available filters (all-in-one, all levels, family resort, snowpark, beginner, après-ski, small ski resort, intermediate, expert), compare the accommodation and ski pass offers, and read the user reviews on Skiinfo. This information will allow you to quickly compile a list of resorts that match your preferences (size of the resort, altitude, atmosphere, budget, massif, time of year).

Finally, consulting the comparisons between the main French and Swiss resorts can also help you decide between two resorts that you might have shortlisted for your next ski holiday.