Winter season is here; pack up your gear and head to the majestic slopes of the French Alps. Witness the stunning landscapes of Courchevel, the Trois Vallees, and Megeve transition into the winter season, where snow-covered hills and mountains offer the perfect settings for snowboarding, skiing, sledding, and so much more.
Related article: The Best Months to Go Skiing in the French Alps
Here is everything you need to know about the opening of the winter season in these three French Alps destinations and the exciting activities taking place:
Winter Opening Season in the French Alps
Festive preparations and the onset of winter activities mark the opening of the winter season in the French Alps. Let’s take a look at the opening dates and activities for the opening season:
1. Courchevel
The first snow in Courchevel arrived in the third week of November, with temperatures down to -10 degrees Celsius. Winter opening starts on December 2 and is expected to last until April 21, 2025. Part of the Trois Vallees, Courchevel may be open on December 2, but its connection to other resorts of the famed Three Valleys will open on December 7.
The resort’s opening aligns with the large portion of the slopes becoming available, although other slopes may open later depending on snowfall. Opening parties occur at specific chalets and restaurants, with sports competitions taking place next week.
Some of the events happening in the first weeks of the opening season include the FIS Para Alpine Ski World Cup, the Ski Mountaineering World Cup from December 12-13, the Millet Ski Touring Competition from December 15-18, and other sports competitions throughout the month.
2. Megeve
The winter season in Megeve opens on December 7, celebrated with the Illumination of the Christmas Tree, a 50-year tradition. Christmas carol singing and folk song performances will occur during this event, with several buildings in the central square also lighted up.
Other activities during the opening include the start of Megeve’s Christmas market, where local crafts, produce, goods, and holiday treats are sold throughout December, as well as opening parties in certain establishments.
Activities that happen during the opening week include:
- The opening of the Megeve Ice Rink.
- Christmas concerts at the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
- Other holiday festivals and performances.
3. Trois Vallee
Trois Vallee is the most extensive ski area in the world. It consists of three valleys, the Valle de Courchevel, the Vallee de Meribel, and the Valle de Belleville, each with various resorts and winter openings.
Meribel opens on December 7 and closes on April 21, while Vale Thorens and Orelle opens on November 23 and closes on May 7. Saint-Martin-de-Belleville begins on December 14 and closes on April 21, while Brides-les-Bains also opens on December 12 and closes on April 14.
In Meribel, the winter season opening typically has a Savoyard atmosphere on the slopes where folk songs, local procure to taste, and accordion music are played. Private opening parties also take place in chalets, restaurants, and cafes. The “Meribel in Lights” opening show also occurs during opening night.
Other resorts have similar activities, including parties, Christmas market openings, and concerts.
Events during the opening week in the Trois Vallee include the Ice Cross World Cup from December 5 to 7 in Val Thorens and the Ski Cross World Cup from December 12-13. The E-Trophee Andes also takes place in Val Thorens, which will happen between December 9 and 10.
However, it’s important to note that the dates for these French Alps resorts’ opening, closing, and events might vary depending on snow and weather conditions, so you should plan and adjust your travel and holiday schedules when you visit any of these resorts.
The French Alps create the ideal setting for a winter wonderland holiday. Whether you’re a die-hard winter sports enthusiast who enjoys skiing or snowboarding on the slopes or simply want to sip hot cocoa and revel in the majestic beauty of the snow-capped mountains, the French Alps is a dream destination.
Book your luxury chalet in Megeve or a premier Courchevel chalet rental, take your pick from any of these winter holiday destinations, and begin your adventures during winter opening week. Take pleasure in experiencing the winter season festivities, whether it’s the Christmas tree lighting at Megeve, watching the winter sports activities in Courchevel, or exploring the different valleys of the Trois Vallee.
Welcome to the winter season of the French Alps and explore the festivities, sports events, and natural beauty of this stunning landscape.
Related article: A Quick Guide to Luxury Lodging in Megeve: Your Ski Holiday Haven
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Featured Image by Alpine Adventures
