The French Alps Beyond the Slopes: Unforgettable Winter Experiences
Think French ski resorts are only for skiers? Think again.
In addition to plenty of chairlifts and places to ski lies another side of the French Alps. This region is also filled with wellness retreats, gourmet dining, adventurous activities, and breathtaking scenery. From building an igloo and scaling frozen waterfalls to unwinding with a mountain-view massage or warming up over a bubbling pot of fondue, these experiences prove you don’t need skis to have an unforgettable winter escape.
Whether you’re traveling with avid skiers, looking for a slower-paced mountain getaway, or simply want to experience the winter magic of the Alps in a new way, French ski resorts offer endless ways to make the most of the mountains… both on and off the slopes.
The French Alps Beyond the Slopes: Unforgettable Winter Experiences
Chamonix & Megève
Set beneath the towering presence of Mont Blanc, Chamonix and Megève pair spectacular Alpine scenery with classic mountain charm. While both resorts are beloved by skiers, there’s plenty happening away from the pistes. From high-altitude adventures to food experiences and encounters with friendly huskies, you’re sure to find your ideal winter activity.
Savor Savoyard fondue under an igloo
For a magical evening in the Alps, trade the ski lifts for snowshoes and head into the woods after dark. The journey with your guide leads to an igloo. Here, you can warm up with a traditional Savoyard dinner of local charcuterie, fresh bread, and cheese fondue.
Take in panoramic views from the Aiguille du Midi
Ready to go above the clouds? Take a private ride on the Aiguille du Midi, France’s highest cable car. In just 20 minutes, you’ll rise more than 2,800 meters into a world of glaciers and eternal snow. With a local guide, soak up sweeping views across the Alps, including Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, and the Grandes Jorasses.
Try ice climbing in the Chamonix Valley
Get to know the Alps at their iciest with a private ice-climbing excursion in the Chamonix Valley. With a local mountain professional leading the way, you’ll explore frozen waterfalls and other ice formations at sites such as the Crémerie in Argentière or the Cascade de Bérard in Vallorcine. Technical equipment is provided, allowing you to focus on the adventure.
Eat your way through Chamonix
Come hungry! A private walking tour takes you through Chamonix’s streets, with stops along the way for local sweet and savory specialties. As your guide shares stories about the town’s history and culture, you’ll get a delicious introduction to Chamonix.
Adventure through the mountains by snowmobile
For a little more adrenaline, explore the winter landscapes by snowmobile. Ride through pristine forests and dramatic mountain scenery with an experienced guide, with the route adaptable to your preferences. Participants can also switch drivers along the way, giving everyone the chance to enjoy the thrill.
Meet the huskies
Who could resist a mountain walk with a pack of huskies? Spend time alongside these friendly sled dogs as you explore the winter landscape with an experienced musher. You’ll learn about their lifestyle and the special bond they share with their handlers while enjoying a gentle outdoor adventure suitable for guests aged six and above.
Courchevel
Courchevel may be known for its glamour and elegance, but its winter experiences aren’t all about ski-in, ski-out chalets. Think snowmobiles, mountain yoga, chalet-side massages, and irresistible Savoyard cuisine.
Restore your balance with a customized massage session
Time to put your feet up? After an active day in the mountains, retreat to your chalet for a private massage tailored entirely to you. Combining Eastern and Western techniques, your therapist can personalize the treatment using organic oils, with options ranging from a dynamic Chinese full-body massage to more targeted acupressure techniques.
Combine snowshoeing with a Savoyard cooking class
Spend a full day immersed in the landscapes and traditions of the Alps with a guided snowshoe hike followed by a private cooking class. After a scenic walk through snowy forests, arrive at a Savoyard chalet, where a private chef will teach you how to prepare a seasonal three-course meal before you sit down to enjoy your creations. Bon appétit!
Experience the thrill of a privatized snowmobile circuit
Take control of a snowmobile on a private 700-meter circuit high above Courchevel, with impressive mountain views from the plateau near the resort’s airport. After a professional briefing, participants can take to the track on snowmobiles, with tubing and airboarding adding even more ways to play in the snow.
Find your flow in the mountains
Trade the yoga studio for a snowy mountain backdrop. Surrounded by crisp Alpine air and panoramic peaks, you’ll move through a practice adapted to your experience level. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just getting started, it’s a peaceful way to slow down, breathe deeply, and take in the landscape.
Val d’Isère
With its traditional stone-and-wood architecture and dramatic mountain setting, Val d’Isère captures the spirit of the French Alps. In addition to its famous slopes, the resort offers plenty of other ways to embrace the season, whether snowshoeing, building an igloo, or digging into a pot of fondue.
Snowshoe your way to fondue
Explore the peaceful winter landscapes surrounding Val d’Isère on a private guided snowshoe hike to the picturesque hamlet of Le Monal. Nestled at 1,874 meters in the Tarentaise Valley, the picturesque mountain village offers spectacular views of Mont Pourri. After the hike, settle beside the fire for some delicious Savoyard fondue.
Build your own igloo
Head into the snowy landscapes of Val d’Isère and learn how to build your own igloo. Learn about different construction techniques, work together to shape your snow shelter, and then step inside to admire your handiwork before warming up with a hot drink.
Where to Stay in the Alps
Ecrin Blanc in Courcheval
After a day of snow-filled adventures, Ecrin Blanc is a particularly inviting place to come back home to. Located in the heart of Courchevel, this four-star hotel provides easy access to the mountains while offering elegant accommodations, wellness facilities, a variety of restaurants, and even France’s largest high-altitude water park, Aquamotion.
Hotel Mont Blanc in Chamonix
A stay at the five-star Hotel Mont Blanc places you in the center of Chamonix’s legendary mountain atmosphere. Combining historic charm with contemporary luxury, it offers a sophisticated retreat with a hotel spa, restaurant. Best of all, it’s surrounded by breathtaking views of Mont Blanc.
From relaxed evenings beneath the stars to high-altitude adventures, snowy mountain walks, and a well-earned massage, the French Alps offer plenty of ways to embrace winter without ever touching a pair of skis.
Our Travel Designers know these destinations inside and out and can curate an itinerary designed around exactly how you want to experience the Alps.
Whether you’re interested in our Short Snow Break to Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley, A Luxury Weekend to Courchevel, or a completely customized Alpine escape, we’ll help you create a winter holiday that’s every bit as magical as the scenery. Click below to speak with a Travel Designer and start planning your next adventure.