Top Five Areas to Visit in the French Alps
Stretching 1200km across eight alpine countries, the Alps lay claim to some of the most popular winter ski resorts in the world. In France, they cover an area from the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, to the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur regions, and are a popular destination for singles, couples and families year round.
Morzine
For those whose first love is skiing, Morzine provides over 650km of downhill slopes, the opportunity for night skiing, and cross country skiing trails stretching 95km. With British ski schools available, it is a great winter venue to give the kids their first taste of winter sports.
During the summer, couples and families flock to the chalets and resorts around the Morzine area to enjoy a raft of outdoor pursuits. No chance of the kids sitting around the chalet getting bored here. Outdoor games and activities are available, along with walking, hiking and cycling trails. Organised kids clubs will keep the children entertained and local transport between resorts is excellent.
La Clusaz
Situated in the Haute-Savoie area of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alps in south-eastern France, La Clusaz prides itself on being more than just another ski resort. It is a great area for those special together times. While it is undoubtedly one of the country’s most popular winter ski resorts, it is also a popular summer retreat for rest and relaxation. In summer La Clusaz is a place of fresh mountain air, fragrant alpine meadows, meandering rivers, cool alpine lakes, and a place of numerous exhibitions and festivals.
Manigod
Located just 30km from Annecy, and next to La Clusaz, Manigod shares many of its amenities with its near neighbour. Situated in a large agricultural area, Manigod is a popular winter ski resort and a picturesque Alpine village resort surrounded in summer by Alpine flora, fields, woods and forests. With a backdrop of majestic mountains rising to meet a clear blue sky, you can enjoy the many walking, hiking, biking and nature trails suitable for all the family. For those less active days, there are events and festivals held throughout the year.
Le Grand Bornand
Another great winter skiing village resort. At Le Grand Bornand, the kids can get professional ski tuition for free as part of the package. As the winter snows melt away, over 200km of cycle and hiking trails appear, which are accessed by lift. Just a short walk from your chalet or hotel lays the village square, outdoor market, shops and church, and the town of Annecy is just a 30 minute drive away. True to its family traditions, throughout the summer there are events and activities for children of all ages.
Montriond
Close to the Swiss border, this small resort village is popular with families and young at heart couples. While skiing is the main priority during the winter months, during the summer you can enjoy the area’s local lakes, waterfalls, and visit Lindarets village, where domestic goats roam wild. Trips to local towns and villages across the Swiss border can be made by hire car or organised outings.
Winter or summer, the resort villages of the French Alps offer couples and families, the young and young at heart, the opportunity to enjoy active holidays in clean, fresh air, and glorious sunshine. If you’re considering your first skiing break, or looking for a different summer holiday, take a serious look this stunning French Alpine region.
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