While French ski resorts offer world-class skiing, stunning alpine views, and après-ski activities, sometimes it’s refreshing to step off the slopes and explore the nearby regions. From charming towns to cultural hotspots, there are plenty of day trips that offer a break from the snow while still capturing the magic of the Alps. Below are some of the best day trips from popular French ski resorts, perfect for those looking to add a touch of variety to their winter holiday.
1. Annecy from La Clusaz
Distance: 32 km / 40-minute drive
Known as the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy is a picturesque lakeside town that’s a short drive from La Clusaz. It’s famous for its crystal-clear lake, charming canals, and medieval architecture. Stroll through the Old Town, visit Château d’Annecy for a bit of history, and enjoy a lakeside picnic or boat tour. Even in winter, Annecy’s beauty shines through, offering a peaceful retreat from the busy slopes. Don’t miss sampling local specialties like tartiflette in one of Annecy’s many cozy restaurants.
2. Chamonix from Les Contamines-Montjoie
Distance: 30 km / 45-minute drive
Chamonix, one of the most iconic mountain towns in the Alps, is a short drive from Les Contamines-Montjoie. This bustling town sits at the foot of Mont Blanc and is a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts. Take a ride on the famous Aiguille du Midi cable car for breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif, or explore the town’s vibrant shops and cafés. For a unique experience, visit the Mer de Glace, one of France’s largest glaciers, accessible by a charming mountain train. Even if you’re not skiing, Chamonix’s atmosphere and views are worth the trip.
3. Turin from Val d’Isère
Distance: 145 km / 2.5-hour drive
For a more international experience, why not take a day trip to Turin, Italy? From Val d’Isère, it’s just a scenic drive through the Alps and across the border. Turin is renowned for its beautiful baroque architecture, the famous Egyptian Museum, and delicious Italian cuisine. Spend the day exploring the city’s rich history, shop along the elegant Via Roma, or indulge in a warm cioccolata calda (Italian hot chocolate) in one of Turin’s historic cafés. It’s a perfect way to experience a bit of Italian culture during your ski holiday.
4. Aosta Valley from Tignes
Distance: 65 km / 1.5-hour drive
Another Italian adventure awaits just across the border from Tignes in the Aosta Valley. This region offers a mix of natural beauty and history, with its Roman ruins, medieval castles, and the impressive Forte di Bard. Aosta itself, the capital of the valley, is a charming town known for its Roman theatre and Arch of Augustus. After wandering through the streets of this ancient city, warm up with a plate of polenta and local Valdostan cheese. A day trip to Aosta Valley is a perfect blend of cultural exploration and winter magic.
5. Grenoble from Alpe d’Huez
Distance: 63 km / 1.5-hour drive
Grenoble, the “Capital of the Alps,” offers an urban day trip from the snowy heights of Alpe d’Huez. Known for its cutting-edge research centers and universities, Grenoble is also steeped in history, with museums, art galleries, and medieval streets to explore. Take the famous Grenoble-Bastille cable car for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, or visit the Museum of Grenoble to view an extensive collection of fine art. Afterward, stroll along the Isère River or enjoy a French café in the heart of the city.
6. Geneva from Morzine
Distance: 75 km / 1.5-hour drive
Geneva, Switzerland, is just a short drive from the ski resort of Morzine. Known for its luxury watches, international organizations, and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Geneva offers a different pace from the mountain life. Spend the day walking around Lake Geneva, visiting the Jet d’Eau fountain, or exploring the Old Town with its cobblestone streets and Saint-Pierre Cathedral. For those interested in science, a visit to CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is an unforgettable experience. Geneva also has excellent shopping and dining opportunities, perfect for a chic break from the slopes.
7. Lyon from Les Deux Alpes
Distance: 160 km / 2-hour drive
Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the gastronomic capital of France, is a fantastic day trip from Les Deux Alpes. Spend the day exploring the traboules (secret passageways) in Vieux Lyon, visiting the impressive Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, or indulging in the local cuisine at a traditional bouchon. Lyon is also home to some of the best shopping in France, from luxury boutiques to artisanal markets. It’s a perfect mix of culture, history, and culinary delight.
8. Yvoire from Avoriaz
Distance: 90 km / 1.5-hour drive
Yvoire, a medieval village on the shores of Lake Geneva, offers a tranquil and scenic day trip from Avoriaz. Known for its beautiful flower displays in summer, Yvoire still holds its charm in the winter months with its cobbled streets, stone houses, and medieval architecture. Walk along the lakefront, visit the Garden of Five Senses, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of this lakeside retreat. Though small, Yvoire’s beauty and charm make it a hidden gem worth visiting.
