Hello, travelers! Looking to take a family getaway this winter? From the snow-covered slopes of the Alps to the forests of the Vosges, via Strasbourg and the Brittany coast, choose your setting and enjoy your vacation at your own pace.
A cozy chalet, days on the slopes, snowshoeing, or a getaway by the ocean: discover where to go this winter based on your desire for winter sports, nature, and quality time together.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Where to Go This Winter in the French Alps?
- Our 5 Christmas Getaway Ideas
- Where to go in the Vosges this winter?
- When to Go on Winter Vacation?
- Where to Go in Winter Based on Your Preferences?
- FAQ: Where to go in winter?
Hit the slopes at resorts in the Alps
Need some fresh air? In the Alps, winter is all about hitting the slopes, exploring snow-covered trails, or enjoying a shared snack after a day on the slopes. Whether in the Northern or Southern Alps, each mountain range has its own unique atmosphere. A campground in the Alps puts vacationers close to the resorts and high-altitude landscapes, depending on the campsites’ operating seasons.
In southeastern France, the Hautes-Alpes combine larch forests, sun-drenched peaks, and views of Lake Serre-Ponçon. For a winter getaway, opt for a resort or lodging that’s open during this season. Camping destinations in the Hautes-Alpes are also worth exploring in the warmer months, when the trails and lakeshores come alive with outdoor activities.
Les Orres: Winter Sports and Panoramic Views of Serre-Ponçon
Située au-dessus du lac de Serre-Ponçon, la station des Orres déroule 100 kilomètres de pistes au milieu des mélèzes. Son domaine culmine à 2 720 mètres et compte 36 pistes, des espaces d’apprentissage, un snowpark ainsi que deux zones de luge. Débutants, skieurs confirmés et familles peuvent ainsi organiser leur journée selon leur niveau.
Pour séjourner sur place en hiver, la résidence Sunêlia Les Logis d’Orres reste ouverte toute l’année, à environ 200 mètres du télésiège de Champ Lacas. Un séjour en camping dans les Orres demande donc de distinguer la résidence accessible pendant la saison de ski des établissements ouverts aux beaux jours. Depuis les pistes, admirez le lac en contrebas ; l’été venu, un camping au lac de Serre-Ponçon rapproche les vacanciers de ses plages et de ses activités nautiques.
Avoriaz, a completely pedestrian-only resort
In Avoriaz, you can explore the snow-covered streets on foot, and many accommodations offer direct access to the slopes. Once you’ve dropped off your luggage, everyone can easily reach the lifts, shops, and activities in the resort. This setup offers real freedom to families who want to minimize car use during their vacation.
Avoriaz opens onto the Portes du Soleil ski area, which spans France and Switzerland. Beginner areas are perfect for first-time skiers, while more experienced skiers can switch to different sectors throughout the day. Sledding, an ice rink, and the Aquariaz water park round out the activities depending on the seasonal schedule.
Val Thorens: High Altitude in the Heart of the 3 Vallées
Located at an elevation of 2,300 meters, Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe. It provides access to the 3 Vallées, a vast ski area connected to Méribel, Courchevel, Les Menuires, and Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. Skiers enjoy a wide variety of slopes and can experience different atmospheres without having to get back in the car.
At this altitude, plan for a leisurely arrival, especially if you’re traveling with young children. Stay hydrated, protect your skin from the sun, and keep a warm layer in your bag. Before heading out, check which trails are open and the last lift times so you can return to the resort with peace of mind.
Our Five Ideas for a Christmas Getaway
Celebrate the holidays in the setting of your choice
A city all lit up, a snow-covered forest, or a walk along the ocean? The Christmas holidays are the perfect time to get away from it all and enjoy simple days with your family.
- Discover Christmas traditions in Alsace. Strasbourg sets up its market stalls across the squares of the Grande Île through December 24. Plan your visit on a weekday or in the morning to explore the aisles at a more leisurely pace. A weekend near the Strasbourg Christmas market also gives you time to admire the Grand Sapin on Place Kléber and the houses of Petite France.
- Put on your snowshoes in the Vosges. Explore the beech and fir forests along marked trails, depending on snow conditions. Alternate between a snowshoe hike, a sled ride, and an introduction to cross-country skiing to mix things up without overloading your day.
- Head up high near Mont Blanc. In Chamonix, the Montenvers train takes you to the Mer de Glace glacier, while the Aiguille du Midi cable car offers panoramic high-mountain views. Operating hours depend on weather conditions; check them before you go.
- Breathe in the fresh air along the Cornouaille coast. From a campground in Quimper offering winter-open rental accommodations, explore the historic center, then head to Concarneau, Bénodet, or Sainte-Marine. A waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, and the tide schedule are all you need to plan a walk by the ocean.
- Experience the charm of San Remo. On the Italian Riviera, stroll through the narrow streets of La Pigna, admire the city’s villas, and treat yourself to a break on a terrace when the weather permits. In winter, simply check the opening hours of attractions and restaurants before your visit.
Set out to explore the Vosges Mountains
Nestled among beech and fir forests, the Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park invites you to breathe deeply and take your time. The mountain range’s accessible terrain is ideal for first-time snow vacations as well as trips that combine skiing, hiking, and relaxation.
Downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or sledding: the activities can be tailored to snow conditions and each person’s skill level. The ski area reports list which trails are open every morning. This way, you can plan your day over breakfast, without having to schedule every hour in advance.
When planning a camping trip in northeastern France, choose a campground that’s open during your chosen dates and close to your planned activities. In the Vosges, a heated rental offers a comfortable place to return to after a day in the great outdoors, with the freedom to cook and enjoy the evening at your own pace.
La Bresse-Hohneck: Skiing for All Skill Levels
La Bresse-Hohneck offers slopes suitable for various skill levels and areas dedicated to learning. Beginners can start with a half-day lesson, then join the rest of the family for an easy run or a break at the base of the slopes.
Snow conditions change throughout the season. Check the snow report in the morning and have a backup activity in mind, such as sledding or a hike along a marked trail.
Gérardmer-La Mauselaine, between the slopes and the lake
Just a few minutes from downtown Gérardmer, the Mauselaine ski area overlooks the lake. This proximity makes it easy on days when not everyone in the group wants to ski: some head out to the slopes while others enjoy shopping or a stroll along the water.
On your way back, take the time to try a Vosges specialty or explore downtown. The ski area’s operating hours vary depending on snow conditions; the official bulletin is your best guide before renting equipment or booking a lesson.
Lispach: Rediscovering the Nordic Spirit
In Lispach, cross-country skiing trails wind through a landscape of forests and peat bogs, with the lake as the backdrop. Choose a loop that suits your skill level and check the trail grooming conditions. For your first outing, a short distance gives you time to enjoy the scenery and master the basics.
This December, get into the holiday spirit
December marks the opening of the first ski resorts and the start of the Christmas season. Les Orres welcomes travelers drawn by the snow, Strasbourg invites visitors to explore its markets, and Quimper offers a winter experience focused on heritage and the ocean. The dates for the slopes, events, and tours change every year; be sure to check the calendar before you leave.
Here are some other ideas for where to go in December, so you can compare trips to the mountains, the coast, or a city decked out in holiday lights.
In January, get back into a more relaxed routine
After the holidays, January charms with its more peaceful days outside of school breaks. Hit the slopes as soon as they open, get together for a hot lunch, and then plan a short activity for the afternoon. Our suggestions for where to go in January will help you choose between the Alps, the Vosges, and milder destinations.
In February, plan your vacation around the kids
In February, ski schools, snow play areas, and sledding slopes are the highlights of family vacations. Be sure to book lessons and equipment well in advance, especially during school breaks.
Once there, a morning of skiing, a leisurely lunch, and a walk in the snow are enough to make for a full day. The choice of resort depends mainly on the children’s ages, their skill levels, and the travel time the family is willing to accept.
For a winter vacation in the mountains of France, the Alps and the Vosges offer a variety of landscapes and activities.
- The Southern Alps: Choose Les Orres, in the Hautes-Alpes, to enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and panoramic views of Lake Serre-Ponçon. The Sunêlia Les Logis d'Orres resort welcomes vacationers year-round.
- The Vosges: Explore the area around Épinal and Lake Bouzey, near the Sunêlia Les Nids du Lac campground in Sanchey, for forest walks and nature getaways.
For a family winter vacation, Les Orres, in the Hautes-Alpes, is a particularly well-suited destination. This resort offers beginner slopes, snow play areas, sledding areas, and activities for all ages.
In the Vosges, the areas around Lake Bouzey and Épinal are perfect for family walks, exploring the local heritage, and enjoying the wooded landscapes.
If you want to enjoy a winter vacation in France without skiing, several destinations offer a variety of activities and scenery:
- Quimper, in Brittany: discover the heritage of southern Finistère, Breton villages, and coastal walks.
- Les Orres, in the Alps: enjoy snowshoeing, sledding, and panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains.
- Épinal and Lake Bouzey, in the Vosges: explore forest trails, discover the Imagerie d’Épinal, and enjoy the peaceful waterside scenery.
January and February are generally the best months to enjoy winter sports, especially in high-altitude resorts like Les Orres in the Hautes-Alpes. However, the choice depends on snow conditions and the activities you’re looking for.
In December, the first slopes open to coincide with the Christmas festivities. January often offers a quieter skiing experience outside of school breaks, while February is particularly popular with families for winter vacations.
For a winter vacation in the mountains, pack warm, breathable, and waterproof clothing, as well as shoes suitable for snow and cold temperatures.
Here are the essentials to pack in your suitcase:
- For skiing: gloves, a goggle or sunglasses, a helmet, and appropriate socks.
- For walks: non-slip shoes, a hat, and insulated clothing.
- For the whole family: sunscreen, lip balm, a water bottle, and a change of clothes.