Ski lifts and gondolas in the air, mountains draped in snowy duvets, and flavourful cups of chocolat chaud (hot chocolate)–France is a wintry paradise between November and March that promises a unique holiday experience. This is the ideal season to truly enjoy the snow-laden slopes of the French Alps, the country’s finest highlight this time of the year.
The flight from India takes about nine hours, so why not feel like you’re in France the moment you board the flight? For a smooth experience, start your French sojourn by flying with Air France, which connects Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru to over 20 destinations in France! Expect a stylish cabin and state-of-the-art amenities. Their attention to detail and focus on providing a pleasurable experience is accentuated by a selection of fine wines and champagnes on offer.
Your best bet for flying to and from France would be via Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport, which isn’t just an airport but a destination in itself. It’s Air France’s hub and enables you to travel hassle free to destinations all across the country. Treat yourself to a shopping excursion at some of the choicest showrooms and let the little ones make the most of play areas. Spoil yourself at the cafes, You can even luxuriate in Air France’s business lounge. Book a room at the Yotel inside the airport and never let a delay or layover bother you.
To help you picture what’s in store for you, here are eight reasons why you need to visit the French Alps to experience a winter that you will never forget!
1. Gorge on the unparalleled beauty of alpine landscapes
Come snowfall, France’s verdant mountains are graced with a white hue that travellers just can’t get enough of. The stunning vistas of the French Alps truly come alive in the winter months. For starters, head straight to the largest ski area in the world, Les Trois Vallées. The enchanting region is home to eight stunning resorts, popular among which are Val Thorens, the highest resort town in Europe, and Méribel and Courchevel, both of which are home to lovely Christmas markets whose arresting charm refuses to wear off. Les Trois Vallées boasts 600 km of skiing area, along with a landscape that's impossible to get tired of. You can capitalise on the mountains’ magnetic charm on a hike, a train ride or a gondola ride. The easiest way to reach Les Trois Vallées is from Lyon.
Air France flies from Paris CDG to Lyon five times daily and thus is the most convenient option for you to fly to Lyon from India.
2. Ski down the world’s finest ski-resort villages
France’s mountainous landscapes are complemented by gorgeous ski-resort villages that’ll make your winter vacation one for the ages. If you’re in the mood for an adrenaline rush on the icy slopes of the Alps, a skiing adventure will surely do the trick. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Megève, Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, Les Deux Alpes and Morzine-Avoriaz are some of the other ski-resort villages that stand out for their brilliant architecture, alluring vibe and welcoming locals.
3. Indulge in enthralling winter sports
Skiing isn’t the only sport at your disposal. If you seek an adventure but aren’t too keen to ski, the French Alps have you covered. Make the most of the snowy surfaces and go snow-shoeing, tobogganing or hop on a luge or sledge and let the fun take over. Go paragliding or ziplining to cap off your adventures. This is not all, you can even check out ice climbing and driving on ice. Regardless of which resort you’re in, the options are endless.
4. Treat yourself in exquisite spa towns
No vacation in the Alps is complete without a luxurious spa. You’ll have the best experience in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, a region with 24 spa towns. The waters here overflow with beneficial properties, making the region the heart of well-being and serenity. Give in to some self-love at these gorgeous spa towns. Begin with Evian, a popular spa town that offers the perfect balance of wellness and opulence.
5. Savour the delicacies of the French Alps
Make your way to a quaint cafe for an exclusive feast special to the mountains. With 40 Michelin-star restaurants that you can walk into, the food in the French Alps has summited the zenith of global cuisine. Give in to the succulent flavours of raclette, gratin dauphinois, pot-au-feu, fondue and tartiflette. Customised meat-free versions of these dishes are also available to ensure that vegetarians don’t miss out on anything. Don’t forget to get your fix of Génépi, a herbal liqueur that makes for a fine end to a meal.
6. Acquaint yourself with après-ski activities
Irrespective of the resort you’re in, the nightlife will surely catch your fancy. Skiers love some après-ski (social activity) after a day on the slopes, and so should you! La Folie Douce is the place to get the party started, with the finest ones in Méribel, Courchevel, Val Thorens and Chamonix Mont-Blanc. Live music, table stomping and funky outfits–party scenes in the Alps are best enjoyed in La Folie Douce. The cold takes a backseat and a sense of joie-de-vivre takes centre stage. Jazz clubs and piano bars are also in vogue, especially in Megève and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.
7. Admire the unique environs of Annecy
Featuring elegant canals flanked by vibrant flowers and an aquamarine lake, Annecy, called the Venice of the Alps, is the centrepiece of the Haute-Savoie region. Explore the vintage charm of the Old Town, walk across the bridges, admire impressive 16th-century buildings and enjoy the bustle of the local market. Top off your experience with a boat ride in the lake, and capture the rising sun surrounded by calm waters. If you’re a honeymooner looking for dreamy destinations, your search should end here.
8. Put on your dancing shoes at Winter Tomorrowland
Does the idea of attending a spectacular music festival set amidst the icy slopes of France appeal to you? If yes, then join the 25,000 people who will make their way to Tomorrowland Winter for a fix of electronic music and authentic festival stages stationed as high as 3,300 m. Tomorrowland Winter is a melodic extravaganza scheduled between 14 and 21 March 2020 that takes place in Alpe d’Huez, which was voted Europe’s best ski resort in 2017.
Offering such a diverse mix of adventures, activities and food, the French Alps make for an impressive holiday destination. Whether you head here for a dose of adrenaline or a laidback break, these mountains will surely make you want to come back for more!
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In association with Air France and Atout France.