Five hidden gem ski resorts in France, perfect for everyone from couples to families
Discover gorgeous destinations a little off the beaten slope for fewer crowds and more experiences, no matter your group size or skiing experience
France has everything you could want when it comes to skiing – snow-sure resorts, fabulous food, slopes for all levels, great off-piste options, plenty to do away from the trails, and many resorts that are family-friendly too.
But rather than following the crowds to the best-known resorts this year, why not try out one of Sunweb’s under-the-radar gems?
Best for intermediate skiers: Serre Chevalier
Made up of several interlinked villages, Serre Chevalier offers more than 150 miles of slopes, mainly blue and red runs. Some 80% are above 2,000 metres and a third of them equipped with snow-making machines, making the vast terrain of Serre Chevalier an ideal playground for intermediate skiers.
About two hours from Grenoble or Turin, and the largest area in the less-frequented southern Alps, it’s been selected to co-host freestyle skiing events for the 2030 Winter Olympics. Residence Club MMV le Serra Neva is one of Sunweb’s most popular accommodation options here. Set in the centre of La Salle-les-Alpes commune, it has a regular shuttle bus to the Pontillas lift, and benefits from a heated outdoor pool and spa to help ease any aching muscles at the end of the day. Apartments are available for groups of two to eight.
Best for couples: Val Cenis
A romantic setting made up of three traditional villages, Val Cenis offers almost 80 miles of downhill slopes set between 1,300 and 2,800 metres, as well as Nordic and snow shoe trails. Explore the new Himalayan-style footbridge, 100 metres above the Ambin gorge, to enjoy two entirely different views of the unspoilt valley, live your “Love Story” moment at the outdoor ice rink surrounded by snow-covered peaks, or simply relax in the public thermal baths.
The four star Hotel Saint Charles is a wooden chalet-style ski-in, ski-out hotel with stylish, modern rooms and several categories to choose from, depending on budget. It has fantastic views as well as an onsite swimming pool and a spa, which offers couples’ treatments, plus a concierge is on hand to help you make your stay extra special. The restaurant serves local specialities, with a half-board option available if you prefer. If you’d rather it was just the two of you, room service is available.
Best for expert skiers: Les Sybelles
With almost 200 miles of downhill slopes, some of which are black or red, as well as plenty of opportunities to explore off-piste, Les Sybelles is ideal for skiers and boarders of all capabilities.
In the Savoie department, Les Sybelles is made up of several linked resorts – Saint Sorlin d’Arves is a former farming village with a cosy atmosphere and great nightlife, while Le Corbier is modern and pedestrianised, with ski-in, ski-out accommodation and a handy covered shopping arcade. Saint Sorlin d’Arves is home to the most challenging slopes and offers direct access to the highest point of the ski area and the steepest run in Perrons Haut. Treat yourself to a stay at the high-end Chalets Lézami – right next to the slopes and ideal for groups, with apartments sleeping up to 14 people.
Best for families: Les Orres
One of the most southern resorts in the Alps with about 300 days of sunshine a year and some 60 miles of slopes with an impressive network of snow cannons, Les Orres is designed with families very much in mind.
The easiest slopes come down to the charming village square, where you can find plenty of activities for children, whatever the weather. As well as a wide range of pistes, there are two toboggan areas, two snow gardens for the smallest learners, and options for husky sled rides and snowmobile adventures even for children as young as five (in passenger trailers).
Stay at the budget-friendly Résidence Le Parc des Airelles, which is at the foot of the slopes, just 80 metres from the nearest lift (so less walking for tired little legs!), which offers amazing views. It also has an indoor pool.
Best for those on a budget: Superdévoluy
A compact, practical ski resort in the southern Alps, Superdévoluy was designed by architects to offer everything under one roof – so you’ll find all you need from a supermarket to ski school in one long shopping corridor.
As well as skiing, thrillseekers can have a go at snow kiting or try out the underground via ferrata. For something a bit gentler, you could opt for a moonlit snowshoe walk, or relax in the cinema or spa. Résidence Les Toits du Dévoluy offers simple, affordable studios and apartments for up to six people near all facilities, slopes and lifts. Or if you are a larger group or seeking a little more luxury, Résidence L’Orée des Pistes is set across a number of chalet-style buildings, has apartments for up to 10 and comes with stunning views and a heated indoor pool.
Choose Sunweb for a skiing adventure in France