Spending Christmas in the mountains is a magical experience where snow, traditions and festive spirit come together. Choosing the right resort for your Christmas ski holidays allows you to enjoy both snow-covered slopes and magical entertainment that will delight the whole family, without breaking the bank.
From illuminated villages to cosy Christmas markets, a winter break in the mountains transforms the festive season into a true winter wonderland.
Discover our most beautiful chalets for Christmas
Why should you go on ski holidays at Christmas?
Enjoy a traditional Christmas
When you go skiing at Christmas, youโll find the magic of the festive season in a setting straight out of a fairy tale. Alpine villages such as Megรจve and Les Gets offer twinkling lights, snow-covered fir trees and cosy Christmas markets.
With everything from a horse-drawn carriage ride in the snow to hot chocolate by the fireside, the mountains offer a unique atmosphere where you can share moments with your family and reconnect with the authentic, magical spirit of Christmas.
Guaranteed snow at many resorts
At Christmas, you can be sure the slopes will be covered in snow at most resorts, especially at high altitudes.
Destinations such as Val Thorens, Tignes and Val dโIsรจre guarantee optimal snow cover from December onwards, with their ski areas situated at over 2,000 metres. Whether you enjoy skiing, boarding or snowshoeing, the fresh, abundant snow transforms the festive season into an unforgettable winter wonderland.
Festive events and entertainment
Finally, when you spend Christmas in the mountains, you get to enjoy a multitude of events that will add a sparkle of magic to your stay. A packed programme of entertainment creates a friendly and festive mood in the resorts, making every moment even more memorable.
In Les Deux Alpes, Father Christmas skis down the slopes to delight the waiting children, while in Chamonix, the streets come alive with street performances and fireworks. In Courchevel, the festivities include light parades and open-air concerts.
Our choice of the best resorts for Christmas
Here are some of our favourite ski resorts for an unforgettable Christmas, along with examples of accommodation where you can bring the whole family together for this magical time of year.
1. La Clusaz: tradition and friendship
In La Clusaz, the traditional festive spirit of Christmas is alive and well. The streets are lit up, the wooden chalets are decked out with colourful decorations and the friendly atmosphere of this family resort warms up the winter evenings.
Whether you are skiing down snow-covered slopes or enjoying a delicious Savoyard fondue, the Christmas festivities enchant guests of all ages. La Clusaz is an ideal place to experience the magic of the festive season with your family, offering the perfect balance between tradition and celebration.
Where to stay in La Clusaz: Chalet des Enfants
This 4* chalet can accommodate up to 10 people in a delightful Alpine setting that will make your Christmas holiday truly magical! It is located right on the slopes and the ski shuttle stops 100 metres away, making it the perfect base for winter sports.
The spacious Chalet des Enfants has two living rooms with fireplaces, a large open-plan kitchen, two balconies and two terraces. One of the terraces has an outdoor hot tub where you can enjoy the magnificent views of the Aravis mountains.
2. Les Gets: a picture-postcard setting
In Les Gets, the Christmas atmosphere is like something out of a fairytale. The village is transformed into a picture-postcard setting with fir trees covered in snow, twinkling lights and a craft market.
Families will love Santaโs House, where children can meet the man himself. With its many activities, accessible slopes and warm atmosphere, Les Gets is a great destination for family holidays.
Where to stay in Les Gets: Chalet Joux Verte
You will feel right at home when you spend Christmas at this 5-star chalet, built just above Les Gets and offering easy access to the ski slopes. Surrounded by a beautiful landscaped garden overlooking Mont Chรฉry, Chalet Joux Verte can accommodate eight people.
With its tasteful dรฉcor and high-end facilities, this chalet also has a hot tub and sauna, so you can enjoy a well-deserved moment of relaxation at the end of a day of fun activities in the mountains.
3. Megรจve: Elegance and fine dining
Megรจve charms visitors throughout the season with its elegance and refinement, but this is especially true during the festive season. The central square, decorated with a huge illuminated Christmas tree, creates a magical setting where you can stroll among the designer boutiques.
The resort perfectly combines mountain charm and lifestyle, with gourmet restaurants and table dโhรดte dining. In Megรจve, skiing, fun and designer shopping combine to offer a chic and unforgettable Christmas.
Where to stay in Megรจve: Chalet Snow Love
Chalet Snow Love is a cosy, traditional chalet built of wood and stone. There is plenty of room for up to 12 people (including eight adults and four children) in its five bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom.
Decorated like a cosy alpine retreat just a stoneโs throw from the centre of Megรจve, a suspended fireplace adds to the warm atmosphere, while the sauna promises wonderful moments of relaxation. Thereโs everything you need for an unforgettable Christmas!
4. Combloux: stunning views of Mont Blanc
Throughout the year, Combloux enchants visitors with its breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, which seems to be decorated with sparkling snow to celebrate Christmas. The authentic Savoyard spirit can be felt in the resortโs charming chalets, local traditions and warm welcome.
Fill your days with festive activities, from torchlight descents to childrenโs shows. Whether youโre skiing, snowshoeing or enjoying time to relax, Combloux offers an enchanting setting for a wonderful, fun-filled holiday.
Where to stay in Combloux: Chalet Grand Soir
Up to 12 guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc mountains from this modern chalet, which features six bedrooms, a large furnished terrace, two balconies, and an outdoor Nordic bath.
In addition, Chalet Grand Soir is practical too, with a garage, ski room, fully equipped kitchen, and a cosy living room with wood-burning stove. Each bedroom has its own en-suite bath or shower room.
5. Samoรซns: an authentic resort with traditional entertainment
Christmas in Samoรซns is full of old-world charm, far from the hustle and bustle of larger resorts. The traditional village centre is decked with lights and hosts a craft market offering a mix of local products and handmade gifts.
The warm atmosphere is enhanced with traditional events, such as the Santa Claus parade and choirs. Samoรซns promises a simple, authentic and memorable Christmas in the mountains.
Where to stay in Samoรซns: Chalet La Parenthรจse
Enjoy wonderful moments with friends and family at this delightful mountain chalet for 15, thanks to a range of high-end features: an exercise area, home cinema, outdoor hot tub, and even a sauna.
After a day on the slopes, you can all get together around the fire in the cosy lounge, or perhaps in the games room, where youโll find a dartboard and a retro arcade machine.
Where to stay at Christmas? Choose a chalet with top-end facilities
Chalets with cosy fires and mountain views
Christmas only comes once a year, so why not treat yourself and your loved ones to an unforgettable experience in a cosy retreat in the heart of the mountains? Spacious and welcoming, a private chalet is the perfect place to celebrate together.
Imagine yourself curled up by the fire with a cup of hot chocolate in your hand while the snow falls silently outside. Through the windows, you can see the snow-capped peaks, making every moment magical and creating an atmosphere that warms the heart.
Book early for the best choice of accommodation
If you book early for the festive season, youโll get the best choice of accommodation at the most attractive rates. The most popular accommodation, with fireplaces and Alpine views, is usually booked up by spring.
By planning ahead, youโll find it easier to book the chalet that is just right for you, whether youโre travelling with family or friends. That way you can plan your Christmas celebrations in the mountains with complete peace of mind, and without any last-minute stress.
Top tips for a great Christmas holiday in the mountains
Book ski passes and equipment in advance
To make the most of your Christmas skiing holiday, youโll need to book your passes and equipment as soon as possible. Many resorts, particularly in the Alps, see a large influx of visitors at this time of year.
By planning ahead, you can avoid queues, enjoy competitive rates and choose equipment that suits your ability. This guarantees peaceful, well-organised days on the slopes for a stress-free holiday from start to finish.
Packing your suitcase for winter
A successful skiing holiday starts with careful packing. Being well prepared means you can enjoy the slopes and outdoor activities without worrying about the cold, making your Christmas break in the mountains more relaxing.
Pack several layers of warm, waterproof clothing to protect you from the cold and snow, as well as accessories such as gloves, a hat and sunglasses. Donโt forget some comfortable clothes for relaxing in the chalet or strolling around the villages.
Joining in the festive fun
Christmas in the mountains is not just about the ski slopes: festive attractions are sure to add to the magic of your stay. In resorts such as Megรจve and La Clusaz, concerts, light parades and street performances fill the days and evenings.
Watch the torchlight descent, visit the Christmas markets and meet Father Christmas at childrenโs events. Immersing yourself in these festivities creates unforgettable memories and allows you to fully appreciate the Christmas spirit with family or friends.
Choosing the right ski resort for Christmas is essential if you want an unforgettable holiday in a magical setting. The whole family will love the snow-covered scenery, cosy chalets and festive entertainment.
Now that youโre ready to plan your Christmas skiing holidays, itโs time to book your accommodation:
Discover our most beautiful chalets for Christmas
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