Best Ski Resorts for Christmas Skiing

November 4, 2024

By Katie Thompson

Christmas is a magical time of year, and what better way to celebrate the festive season than by hitting the slopes at some of the world’s best ski resorts? Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner looking for a winter wonderland experience, these ski resorts offer everything you need for a memorable Christmas holiday. Let’s explore some of the best ski resorts for Christmas in the French Alps: Val Thorens, Val d’Isère, Tignes, and Reberty.

Val Thorens: The High Altitude Heaven

Why Val Thorens?

Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe, perched at an altitude of 2,300 meters which ensures excellent snow conditions from November to May. This makes it a perfect choice for a Christmas ski trip and easily one of the best ski resorts for Christmas.

Festive Highlights

Christmas Markets are a great way to get into the festive spirit. Wander through the charming Christmas markets, where you can find local crafts, festive treats, and unique gifts. Usually these happen throughout December on the lead up to the festive period but be sure to check out the resort’s website to see when they will be happening during your stay.

Santa on the Slopes. Keep an eye out for Santa Claus, who often makes appearances on the slopes and in the village. You are also likely to see other holiday goers dressed up for the occasion as well, whether in full costume, Christmas jumpers or tinsel.

Fireworks and Parades will be happening throuhgout the festive period. Enjoy spectacular fireworks displays and festive parades that light up the night sky, adding to the Christmas magic. The torchlight descent by the ski instructors is always a treat.

Skiing and More

With over 600 kilometres of interconnected slopes in the Three Valleys, Val Thorens offers something for every level of skier. The resort also boasts excellent après-ski options, including lively bars, gourmet restaurants, and relaxing spas. It is easy to see why it is considered one of the best ski resorts for Christmas!

Val d’Isere: The Iconic Alpine Resort

Why Val d’Isère?

Val d’Isere is renowned for its extensive ski area, beautiful alpine scenery, and vibrant village atmosphere, making it one of the best ski resorts for Christmas. It’s part of the Tignes Val d’Isere ski area, which offers over 300 kilometers of pistes and fantastic off-piste opportunities.

Festive Highlights

Christmas Eve Torchlight Descent! Watch as ski instructors descend the slopes with torches, creating a beautiful display of lights against the snowy backdrop. It is a truly magical experience and not something to be missed.

Ice Sculptures and Shows. Another reason it’s one of the best ski resorts for Christmas, is that you can marvel at intricate ice sculptures and enjoy live performances that bring the festive spirit to life. Keep an eye out on the Val d’Isere website for updates or ask for information where you are staying.

Gourmet Dining. Indulge in festive feasts at the resort’s many fine dining establishments, which offer special Christmas menus featuring local and international cuisine. It would be best to book in advance with the festive period being a particularly busy time in resort.

Skiing and More

Val d’Isere is perfect for skiers of all abilities, from gentle nursery slopes for beginners to challenging black runs and off-piste terrain for experts. Off the slopes, visitors can enjoy ice skating, swimming, and a range of wellness facilities.

It is a fantastic place to spend your holidays and is one of the best ski resorts for Christmas.

Tignes: The Versatile Wonderland

Why Tignes?

Tignes, which is next door to Val d’Isere, is also a part of the Tignes Val d’Isere ski area. The Tignes Val d’Isere area is known for reliable snow cover and diverse terrain making it on of the best ski resorts for Christmas skiing! The resort is spread across several villages, each offering a unique atmosphere and easy access to the slopes.

Festive Highlights

Christmas Celebrations throughout the festive period. Join in the festive celebrations with live music, street performances, and Christmas-themed events throughout the resort. Be sure to check out the Tignes website to keep up to date with what is happening in resort throughout the Christmas period.

Ice Diving and Ice Climbing. For the adventurous, Tignes offers unique activities like ice diving in the frozen lake and ice climbing on natural ice falls.

New Year’s Eve Party: If you’re extending your stay, don’t miss the legendary New Year’s Eve party in Tignes, featuring live DJs, fireworks, and a vibrant party atmosphere. The resort sets up a stage in the centre of the resort, usually on the lake if it is frozen enough, and then puts on a free concert for the entire resort. It is one of the highlights of the season.

Skiing and More

Tignes offers a wide variety of slopes suitable for all skill levels, as well as excellent snow parks and off-piste opportunities. The resort also has a fantastic sports centre with a swimming pool, spa, and fitness facilities.

With all of this, it is no surprise that Tignes is considered one of the best ski resorts for Christmas holidays!

Reberty: The Hidden Gem

Why Reberty 2000?

Reberty 2000 is a charming, lesser-known resort nestled in the Les Menuires area of the Three Valleys. An ideal choice for families and those looking for a quieter, more intimate Christmas experience.

Festive Highlights

Family-Friendly Activities available across the resort. Reberty 2000 is perfect for families, with activities like sledding, snowshoeing, and festive workshops for children. Keep an eye on the Les Menuires website for all of the events coming up over the Christmas period and all the activities that ensure it’s one of the best ski resorts for Christmas festivities.

Cosy Chalets. Stay in cosy, traditional chalets that offer a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a Christmas getaway. Check out our sister company Ski Famille if you require a chalet complete with childcare.

Scenic Beauty. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the mountains and the peaceful, serene environment that Reberty 2000 provides.

Skiing and More

Reberty 2000 offers access to the vast Three Valleys ski area, with a range of slopes for all levels. The resort itself is quieter and less crowded, making it perfect for a relaxed ski holiday. Additionally, the friendly village atmosphere and excellent local cuisine add to its charm.

Reberty 2000 is one of the best ski resorts for a Christmas holiday as it is a great option for a family friendly or a slower paced ski holiday but still with fantastic access to a large ski area.