France is the world’s top ski destination, yet I love that it’s still possible to avoid crowds and noise and get amazing value by staying in a really French mountain village. Many of our gorgeous ski chalets and lodges are just a little off-piste in locations that are peaceful yet accessible to all the action – both the ski slopes and shops in the day and friendly, cosy auberges in the evening.

The famous resort of Alpe d'Huez has already had abundant snowfall this year and the glaciers are perfect for skiing, so it’s likely to attract a lot of the ski crowd. Yet within striking distance of the Alpe d'Huez slopes are picture book villages like Auris-en-Oisans, Le Freney D Oisans and Mont de Lans, where we have a great choice of ski chalets, lodges and apartments so that you can enjoy a slice of real French life as well as the thrill of winter sports – and get a lot more space for your money.

A typical example is Auris Chalet, which stands at 1,400m in Les Cours, a peaceful village with narrow winding streets yet very little traffic as the road leads nowhere else. Village buildings are typical farmhouses, there’s a quiet friendly atmosphere and fabulous views. For meals, a beer or bottle of wine in front of a roaring fire, the local Auberge is just 25 metres away.

Our skiing guide has information on all the best ski areas, with accommodation options, and you can book flights, ferries and ski train travel, see a guide to driving through France and even get your winter sports travel insurance.

Visit our guide to Ski Holiday Accommodation in France, find owners who specialise in ski holidays and find ski accommodation in Auris and the villages