We Brits love the French Alps, and no wonder, with plenty of snow, tons to do for skiers and non-skiers, fabulous countryside and great food and wine – honestly what’s not to love?!

Must-sees in the Alps

Whenever you visit the alps, you’re guaranteed breath-taking views in the French mountains. When the snow smothers the slopes, take your pick from downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and Nordic Skiing to conquer the frosty peaks

Non-skiers and families are also perfectly catered for in the Alps with cosy mountain spas, snowshoeing and sunny terraces, ideal for those who want an active break or simply to relax.

Where to ski in winter

With 112 resorts, Savoie and Haute-Savoie offer mountain holidays for everyone. The 3 Vallées make up one of the largest ski areas in the world. Sophisticated Courchevel combines skiing with a spot of superb shopping. In Méribel you’ll experience an authentic Savoyard atmosphere in traditional chalets. Reach for the sky at Val-Thorens, the highest ski resort in Europe at 2300 metres high (2,515 yards). For lofty mountain sports, Tignes will float your boat. Avoriaz is a fully pedestrianised resort (except for sleds!) and hosts a unique series of contemporary art exhibitions and music festivals each year. And from Saint-Gervais or Chamonix, discover the famous Mer de Glace, the largest glacier in France, on the slopes of Mont Blanc, one of the most legendary peaks in the world.

Sports and spas in the alps

Winter brings many types of snow sports including the unusual, like diving under the ice, flying down a zip-line and even ski-joring - being pulled on your skis by a horse! If you’re not into skiing that much, then there’s loads to entertain. Dog sledding, tobogganing and snow shoeing will give you plenty of chances to enjoy the stunning landscape. And, there’s also plenty of opportunity to be pampered at one of the many luxury spas. From salt walls to ice caves, beauty products created from mountain specialities like donkey milk and bee pollen, the Alps are the perfect place to recharge your batteries.

Gastronomy reaches a peak

A little indulgence is a good thing, and in the mountains fine dining reaches new peaks! No less than 30 starred restaurants with a total of 48 stars, feature in the Michelin Guide, an unusually high number in one area. And there are cosy alpine bistros and tasty food trucks and cheese bars for less formal dining including the famous raclette, tartiflette and fondue dishes. You may not be able to get your salopettes on the next day but you will feel very happy!

French Connections has a great range of holiday rentals in the French alps, pop over to our home page to browse the listings and find your ideal snowy wonderland home…