January is one of the most snow-sure months in the French Alps. Expect heavy snowfall, “powder”, and crispy bluebird days. Wherever you go, as long as it’s high-altitude, you will be guaranteed a wonderful winter holiday.
The kids are back in school both in the UK and France, so there are usually no crowds or queues. January is great for beginners, as well as keen skiers and boarders who want to maximise time spent on the snow.
The excellent conditions make off-piste skiing extra fun. Plus, all or most snow runs are open, giving you a wide variety of choice. You may never jump on a slope twice.
We can’t think of one reason not to book a skiing holiday in January! Just make sure to bring the right gear to stay warm.
Ready to start window-shopping for your next winter holiday? We have selected the best ski resorts for January skiing in the French Alps for you.
Remember: you can easily access nearby resorts by car or lift. Many skiing areas are reachable from more than one valley.
Towns: Val D’Isère, Solaise
Ski runs: 159
Snow parks: 2
Km of pistes: 300km
Nearby resorts: Tignes
Val D’Isère is part of the Tignes-Val D’Isère Ski Area and boasts 300km of perfectly-groomed piste tracks. The weather conditions here are exceptional, with sub-zero temperatures for much of the skiing season. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy the iconic après-ski scene at France’s very first Folie Douce - outdoor, high-altitude clubbing.
Towns: Courchevel towns, la Tania
Ski runs: 152
Snow parks: 42
Km of pistes: 600km
Nearby resorts: The Three Valleys, Méribel, Les Menuires
Courchevel is a fantastic skiing resort connected to The Three Valleys skiing area. With over 85% of the slopes located at over 1800m of altitude, you can be sure to find fresh snow up here. There is an almost equal split between green-blue and red-black slopes, so there’s plenty of ground to cover for everyone. Like the sound of it? Why not stay in one of our exclusive catered chalets?
Towns: La Folie Douce, Reberty, La Tania, Meribel, Le Menuires
Ski runs: 339
Snow parks: 1
Km of pistes: 660km
Nearby resorts: Méribel, Courchevel, Val Thorens, Le Menuires
The Three Valleys is a world-famous ski resort, thanks to its unrivaled 660km of pistes. Skiing is the main activity in this vast resort, but the nightlife is also fantastic. Looking for a place to stay? Look no further than our luxurious chalets in The Three Valleys.
Town: La Plagne, Montchavin Les Coches, Plagne Montalbert, La Plagne Villages
Ski runs: 128
Snow parks: 4
Km of pistes: 425km
Nearby resorts: Les Arcs
La Plagne is part of the “Paradiski” skiing area, together with Les Arcs. With over 425km of pistes suitable for beginner and intermediate skiers, you won’t get bored. If you’re looking for something more challenging, don’t miss the long off-piste descents from the Bellecote’s 3,417m summit.
Thinking of going to La Plagne? Make sure to check out our luxurious chalet accommodation.