All about ski

France has one of the largest and most famous ski areas in the world. There are 350 ski resorts, mainly in the Alps, but also in the Pyrenees, Massif Central, Jura and Vosges.

The ski resort is a place to stay or go on holiday and offers leisure facilities and ski lifts that take you up to higher altitudes and then down the ski slopes. There are two types of ski resorts: Alpine ski resorts and Nordic ski resorts.

From small village resorts to large ski areas, the range of skiing on offer is rich and varied, as is the diversity of experiences to be had during your stay in the mountains. For those who don't want to do just skiing, there are many off-ski activities, but they depend on the resort where you are going, with some offering more than others. Every year, millions of visitors flock to the French mountains. France is a popular destination for ski holidays, but it is also appreciated for its gastronomy and its diverse resorts.

Photo by Glade Optics on Unsplash

What is skiing?

Skiing is the act of letting yourself slide down a slope with the help of skis. It is a sport of sliding. It is a sport for young and old alike, but especially for thrill-seekers and/or those who like to admire the beauty of the great white spaces. Downhill skiing is a complete sport. It improves your balance, coordination and agility.

Nevertheless, skiing requires you to be in fairly good physical condition, not only to enjoy the slopes as much as possible, but also and above all to avoid the risk of injury.

The different practices

Today, there are other alternatives to downhill skiing such as cross-country skiing, freeride skiing, freestyle skiing, ski touring and snowboarding, so that everyone can find something to enjoy. It is also an opportunity to enjoy the pure mountain air with family and friends, but above all to have fun!

An Olympic sport

Alpine skiing in competition consists of 6 Olympic disciplines:

• Downhill
• Super-G
• Giant Slalom
• Slalom
• Parallel
• Combined

These disciplines are contested in various national and international championships and also at the Winter Olympics.

In this article you will find all our advice and tips on how to go skiing according to your criteria and needs, with a section on the resorts and their specificities. But also the activities offered in the resort which are the most appreciated and accessible to all. As well as the equipment to spend a warm stay with for example the system of 3 layers for an optimal protection against the cold. And finally, we will advise you on the essential equipment to have for a safe and enjoyable stay on the slopes.