France’s Alpine regions are renowned for their world-class ski slopes. But there are also exciting attractions to be found off the slopes, for anyone looking for things to do in winter besides skiing. From spectacular panoramic views and activities for the whole family to relaxing wellness centres: SnowTrex presents some of the most exciting off-piste destinations in France that are also open during the winter months.
1. Aiguille du Midi – View of Mont Blanc high above Chamonix
- Address: 100 Place de l’Aiguille du Midi, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France
- Prices: Return ticket : adults approx. 80 euros, children aged 5 to 14 approx. 70 euros
- Opening hours:opendailyfrom 8 am to 4.30 pm
From the Aiguille du Midi above Chamonix, a spectacular 360° panoramic view of the French, Swiss and Italian Alps awaits. In just 20 minutes, visitors are taken by cable car from the Alpine town up to 3,842 m. Up there, you can explore a panoramic terrace with views of Mont Blanc and, for a thrill, the glass-bottomed “Step into the Void” platform, where visitors stand in a glass box on “the roof of Europe” above the abyss.
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2. Mer de Glace – Ice Cave and Montenvers Railway
- Address: 35 Place de la Mer de Glace, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France
- Prices: Return trip including gondola to the ice cave: Adults €49.70, children aged 5 to 14 €42.20
- Opening hours:opendailyfrom 10.00 am to 4.30 pm
On a trip to the Mer de Glace glacier near Chamonix, visitors can experience a natural wonder up close. The journey begins with the red Montenvers train, a cog railway over 100 years old, which takes you through the snow-covered mountain landscape up to an altitude of 1,913 metres. Once there, the view opens up onto France’s largest glacier, the “Sea of Ice”. A small gondola and several steps also lead down to a fascinating ice cave, which is decorated every year with fresh, sparkling ice sculptures made from glacier ice.
3. Alpine Coaster Chamonix – Thrilling fun in the snow
- Address: 351 chemin du Pied du Grépon, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France
- Prices: €9.50per ride (discounts available for multiple rides)
- Opening hours:opendailyfrom 11.00 am to 5.30 pm
The Alpine Coaster at Les Planards leisure park proves that Chamonix isn’t just for extreme mountaineers and skiers. On this rail toboggan run, adventure-seekers can also hurtle downhill in two-seater sledges. Steep bends, undulations and jumps along the roughly 1,300-metre track provide adrenaline and excitement for young and old alike. The facility is winter-proof and therefore open daily even in the cold season, making this highlight ideal for visitors whatever the weather. Located on the outskirts of Chamonix, the Alpine Coaster is even easily accessible on foot from the town centre, without the need for a car.
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4. Aquariaz – Water park against an Alpine backdrop
- Address: 142 Route des Rennes, 74110 Avoriaz, France
- Prices: Adults €12, children aged 3 to 11 €8 and free for under-3s
- Opening hours:opendailyfrom 1.30 pm to 7.30 pm
Right in the heart of the high-altitude ski resort of Avoriaz, visitors are treated to a tropical water world complete with palm trees at Aquariaz! This indoor water park, situated at an altitude of 1,800 metres, is like an exotic oasis amidst the snow and ice. Huge ferns and rubber trees, rocks and a lazy river give the whole complex a jungle feel, whilst visitors can enjoy views of the mountains and the Alpine panorama outside. Families also love the children’s pool with water features and the slides, whilst thrill-seekers can try out the half-pipe-style “Slidewinder” slide. And anyone looking for relaxation in the middle of winter can float away in the warm outdoor hot tub.
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5. Val Thorens Igloo Village – Hot drinks in ice-cold huts
- Address: Val Thorens, on the Combe de Thorens slope, 73440 Val Thorens, France
- Prices: Day visit to the ice bar free of charge; fondue dinner around 50 euros per person; overnight stay in the igloo hotel from 249 euros for 2 people
- Opening hours: openfrom mid-December to the end of April between 10am and 5pm
In Europe’s highest ski resort, Val Thorens, a genuine igloo village awaits as a truly ‘cool’ destination. Every winter, a little world of its own made of snow and ice emerges here at an altitude of over 2,300 metres. In the ice bar, which is open during the day, visitors can enjoy a hot drink or cocktail served in ice picks whilst admiring the ice sculptures carved into the walls. On certain evenings, the igloo also transforms into a restaurant. By torchlight, guests hike together to the igloo village and enjoy a traditional Savoyard cheese fondue beneath the frosty dome. And those who wish can even stay overnight here and sleep on reindeer skins in one of the snow rooms.
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6. Les Grands Bains du Monêtier – pure wellness at the alpine thermal spa
- Address: 550 Route du Club, 05220 Le Monêtier-les-Bains, France
- Prices: 2-houradmission : Adults €25, children under 14 €15
- Opening hours: opendaily from 10 am to 7.30 pm
The alpine thermal spa Les Grands Bains is situated in the village of Monêtier, which forms part of the Serre Chevalier ski resort. Indeed, the ancient Romans already appreciated the hot springs that rise here. Today, however, a modern wellness oasis awaits visitors in the same spot. Large indoor and outdoor pools invite you to bathe in the mineral-rich water, which is around 36 degrees, surrounded by a magnificent mountain backdrop. Bubble loungers, a lazy river and waterfalls also provide variety. Sauna sessions with views of snow-capped peaks and steam baths round off the experience.
A little tip from SnowTrex: A visit in the evening, when the spa is atmospherically lit and the crisp winter air provides a wonderful contrast to the steaming water, offers a great atmosphere for relaxation.
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7. Vauban Fortress and Briançon Old Town – Medieval charm in the heart of the Alps
- Address: Porte de Pignerol, Cité Vauban, 05100 Briançon, France
- Prices & opening hours: Site freely accessible
Winter holidaymakers in the French Alps need not miss out on cultural highlights either. In the Alpine town of Briançon, on the edge of the Serre Chevalier ski resort, skiing fun and history come together. Situated at an altitude of 1,326 metres, the old town is one of the highest of its kind in Europe and is surrounded by imposing fortifications built by the famous architect Vauban in the 17th century. Today, these city walls and forts are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A stroll through the Cité Vauban, with its narrow cobbled streets, colourful houses and small squares, feels like a journey back in time. In winter, Briançon’s old town transforms into a beautiful snowy landscape, where visitors can climb the old fortifications and take in the view of the snow-covered Durance Valley from above. Small museums, cafés and boutiques also invite you to take a break.
8. La Plagne bobsleigh track – an icy thrill of speed
- Address: 2180 Rue de la Piste de Bob, 73210 La Plagne, France
- Prices: from 57 euros per person
- Opening hours: open between December and April
The bobsleigh track in La Plagne is France’s only Olympic bobsleigh and skeleton track and was built for the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville. It is located below Plagne 1800 in the hamlet of La Roche and offers winter sports enthusiasts the unique opportunity to ride a bobsleigh themselves along the very same track where professionals train and compete. Visitors can book a range of different experiences: from self-steered bobsleigh rafts for families (up to approx. 80 km/h) and solo speed luge (up to approx. 90 km/h) to bobsleigh racing rides with a professional pilot (speeds up to approx. 120 km/h). The ride down the approximately 1.5 km long, winding ice track is an unforgettable experience. Warm clothing and sturdy shoes are compulsory for the descent, whilst helmets are provided on site.
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FAQ on attractions in France’s ski regions
How can visitors find the current opening times and conditions for these attractions?
Visitors are best advised to check the official websites of the respective attractions or contact local tourist offices shortly before their visit. Current opening times, seasonal highlights and weather conditions (such as for mountain railways) are announced there.
Which of these attractions are particularly suitable for families with children?
Many of the highlights mentioned are family-friendly. Aquariaz (water park) and the Alpine Coaster in particular offer fun for children of all ages. Parc Alpha is also exciting for children, as they can learn a lot about wolves in a playful way. Thermal baths such as Les Grands Bains du Monêtier usually have special areas for children, and even the ice cave or the igloo village can be exciting experiences for older children.
What can holidaymakers do in the French Alps in bad weather if skiing is out of the question?
In the event of a snowstorm or thick fog, indoor activities and easily accessible day-trip destinations offer a good alternative. For example, a visit to the Aquariaz water park or the thermal baths is ideal for escaping the weather. Cultural attractions such as the old town of Briançon or museums in larger towns are also well worth a visit. The Spannagel Cave – or rather, the Mer de Glace ice cave near Chamonix – is also weather-independent as it is underground, and the cable car runs even in moderate snowfall.
Can holidaymakers reach the mentioned destinations without a ski pass?
Yes. Most of the places described are specifically off-piste activities and accessible to everyone, including non-skiers. Aiguille du Midi and Mer de Glace are easily accessible by train or cable car. The Igloo Village requires skis or a snowboard during the day, but evening tours are available for pedestrians. Parc Alpha can be reached by car or bus. Generally, the ski regions in France are well connected, so pedestrians can also reach many highlights using gondola passes or winter hiking trails.
Do you need to book excursions or attractions in advance?
For some highlights, it’s a good idea to make a reservation. The Igloo Village in Val Thorens should definitely be booked in advance for fondue evenings or overnight stays, as places are limited. Online booking is also required for Parc Alpha in winter, as guided tours take place in groups. Cable car rides, such as to the Aiguille du Midi, can also be booked in advance to avoid waiting times. Otherwise, the rule is: spontaneous visits are usually possible, but a little planning in advance ensures that you can enjoy your destination stress-free.
