Looking forward to an enchanting festive season? By combining the magic of Christmas with the wonders of the mountains in winter, you’re sure to delight young and old alike. But it would be a shame to spoil this by choosing a soulless or overcrowded destination…
In this article, we take a look at the most authentic ski resorts in the Alps, so you can enjoy a traditional Christmas filled with happiness, authenticity and great skiing.
1. La Clusaz: a charming village with a rich history
One of France’s favourite winter resorts, La Clusaz boasts a fantastic ski area. Thanks to the altitude of some of its slopes (up to 2,600 m) and its 151 snow cannons, it enjoys excellent snow conditions in winter.
Long before it was a winter sports destination, La Clusaz was a farming village proud of its identity. Many local craftsmen still make traditional products. Wooden chalets dot the region, in the heart of the lush Aravis countryside.
La Clusaz has been awarded the “Famille Plus” label for its entertainment programme and facilities for children. For 10 days during the festive season, the resort comes alive with shows and activities for all the family.
Events and activities in La Clusaz:
Here are the main events taking place in La Clusaz over the festive period:
- 7–8 December: pre-opening party for the ski area, before the opening on 14 December.
- 23 December – 3 January: Pestacles du Père Noël – a free street arts festival for families, with sound and light shows.
- 31 December: New Year’s ski show to welcome in the new year.
As for the activities on offer in the region during the winter, they include:
Ice skating, snowshoeing, dog sledding, tobogganing/paret, paragliding, ski-joëring, cross-country skiing and ski touring, etc.
Where to stay in La Clusaz: Chalet des enfants
This 4-star chalet can sleep up to 10 guests and its warm, typically Alpine décor will add a real atmosphere to your Christmas holidays! It’s right on the slopes and the ski bus stops just 100m away, making it ideal for winter sports.
Chalet des Enfants is very spacious, with two living rooms with fireplaces, a large open-plan kitchen, two balconies and two terraces. One of these is equipped with an outdoor hot tub, where you can relax and admire the marvellous views of the Aravis mountains.
Click here to find out more about Chalet des Enfants
Our chalets in La Clusaz
2. Saint-Jean-de-Sixt: a haven of calm for a peaceful Christmas
Over the years, this mediaeval village has evolved into an intimate, family-friendly ski resort that has retained its typical Savoyard charm. Less well-known than the neighbouring resorts, Saint-Jean-de-Sixt nevertheless offers access to 220km of pistes, served by shuttle buses.
Snow conditions permitting, the village has its own small ski area. With a ski lift, 200m of pistes and a daily pass costing €9.50 (in 2023), it offers young children and beginners the chance to take their first steps with confidence.
Saint-Jean-de-Sixt also has a number of cosy restaurants where you can enjoy Savoyard specialities such as fondue and raclette around an open fire. What’s more, the friendly locals and festive atmosphere create a unique sense of community.
Events and activities in Saint-Jean-de-Sixt:
Here are the main events taking place in Saint-Jean-de-Sixt around Christmas:
- 23 December: arrival of Father Christmas with a show.
- 27 December: free introduction to biathlon with champion Thomas Briffaz.
Winter activities in the region include:
Tobogganing, snowshoe walks, electric mountain biking on snow, off-piste skiing, paragliding, spa sessions, etc.
Where to stay in Saint-Jean-de-Sixt: Chalet Polanka
Two families can celebrate Christmas in this bright, contemporary chalet, with two separate kitchens and lounges. The communal rooms are still spacious enough for the whole group to get together. There’s also a terrace, a garden and a ski room with a heated boot rack.
Chalet Polanka combines modern comfort, elegant decor and traditional Savoyard style with underfloor heating and a fireplace for a cosy atmosphere. Built into the mountainside just a two-minute drive from the village, Chalet Polanka boasts breathtaking views over the valley.
Click here for more information on Chalet Polanka
Our chalets in Saint-Jean-de-Sixt
3. Chartreuse: a hidden gem with authentic Christmas traditions
Surrounded by several protected nature reserves, the Chartreuse mountains offer enchanting Alpine scenery, particularly during the Christmas season, when the fir trees are covered in glistening snow.
Situated in the south of Savoie, between Annecy and Grenoble, it is home to a number of small, authentic hamlets, such as Saint-Pierre d’Entremont. There are 15 ski lifts and 35km of pistes to suit all levels, as well as a snowpark and an ESF ski school.
Here, there are no fireworks or grand shows to celebrate the festive season. Far from the hustle and bustle of the big Alpine resorts, Chartreuse offers a traditional, friendly Christmas, a return to the origins of this family celebration.
Events and activities in Chartreuse:
Here are some of the events taking place in Chartreuse over the festive period:
- 24 November – 15 December: numerous Christmas markets in the various villages of the region.
- 22 December: Christmas concert in Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse, with a choir and dances from South America.
Winter activities in the region include:
Nordic skiing, ski touring, snowshoeing, tobogganing, speed riding, caving, paragliding, microlighting, spa sessions, etc.
Where to stay in Chartreuse: Chalet Émeraude des Alpes
It’s impossible to get enough of the breathtaking panoramic views from the large picture windows and two spacious terraces at Chalet Émeraude des Alpes! Just a 15-minute walk from the village of Saint-Pierre d’Entremont, this 4-star chalet enjoys a tranquil, natural setting.
There is a choice of small family ski resorts less than 15km away. With a wood-burning stove, large sofas and table football, you can choose between entertainment and relaxation during your evenings in this cosy chalet.
4. Manigod: a picturesque village ideal for families
Nestling in the heart of the Aravis mountains, Manigod is a friendly resort that has retained its authentic Savoyard character. Young skiers and beginners can learn to ski in complete safety, thanks to the blue runs at La Croix Fry and Merdassier.
The ski area is linked to La Clusaz, known for the quality of its red and black runs, but also for its formidable off-piste and freestyle area. And if you want to ski into the evening, Manigod has one of the biggest night skiing areas in the Alps!
During the festive period, the resort is transformed into a real Christmas village, with sparkling lights and craft markets selling local products and handmade creations.
Events and activities in Manigod:
Here is a selection of events taking place in Manigod over Christmas:
- 24 December: workshops, concerts and a Christmas market at Le Merdassier.
- 28 December: championship of paret, Manigod’s traditional toboggan.
Winter activities in the region include:
Snowshoeing, dog-sledding, tobogganing/paret, night skiing, paragliding, horse riding, wellness sessions, etc.
Where to stay in Manigod: Chalet l’Otavalo
This cosy chalet for eight people has been beautifully renovated from an old farmhouse, just 1km from Manigod. Surrounded by alpine pastures, it offers a breath of nature, for a traditional Christmas in a glorious Alpine setting.
Chalet L’Otavalo features a wood-burning stove, sheltered terraces and an outdoor hot tub overlooking the garden and the Aravis mountains. The ski slopes are just 7km away, and the shuttle bus stops just 600 metres from the chalet. Pets are welcome.
Click here to find out more about Chalet l’Otavalo
Discover our chalets in Manigod
5. Saint-Nicolas-la-Chapelle: a magical Christmas in an intimate setting
With its cosy mountain village feel, Saint-Nicolas-la-Chapelle nestles at the foot of Mont Charvin, just opposite Mont Blanc. Despite its size, it has a lively and exciting village centre, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Situated at the crossroads of several ski areas (Évasion-Mont-Blanc, Espace Diamant and Val d’Arly), it is a winter sports paradise. As well as skiing in all its forms, you can go yooning, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and skijoering.
The village’s 14th-century church, with its bell tower and frescoes, is a delight for lovers of Baroque architecture. At Christmas time, it becomes the scene of traditional festive entertainment in a friendly atmosphere.
Events and activities in Saint-Nicolas-la-Chapelle:
Here are the events taking place during the festive season in and around Saint-Nicolas-la-Chapelle:
- 22 December: local producers’ Christmas market, concert and entertainment.
- 24 December: acrobatic arrival of Father Christmas and a torchlight descent in Flumet.
- 27 December: free raclette tasting.
Winter activities in the region include:
Snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, skijoering, tobogganing, snowmobiling and yooning.
Where to stay in Saint-Nicolas: Chalet Ourson du Passieu
This elegant chalet surrounded by nature is the perfect place to spend a rejuvenating holiday, immersed in the beauty of the Alps. Chalet Ourson du Passieu sleeps 10 people in a unique setting, less than 5km from the slopes and the village.
With its open fireplace, fully-equipped kitchen and cosy wood panelling, it’s an easy place to relax. Several rooms have office areas so you can work from home. And when you return from your mountain adventures, you can unwind in your own private sauna.
6. Le Corbier: a modern Christmas with a traditional flavour
Le Corbier is sure to appeal to families and anyone looking for a peaceful winter holiday. Compact and traffic-free, the village is located right at the foot of the slopes, with ski lifts linking it to the vast Sybelles ski area.
In the village, shops, bars and restaurants are linked by covered arcades, so you can explore the village without having to brave the snow. Other restaurants are located at the foot of the slopes, with terraces overlooking the imposing peaks of the Arves mountains.
The village, which has been awarded the “Famille Plus” label, organises a welcome drink every Sunday throughout the winter season. During Christmas week, it will be all the more festive and convivial, with a firework display that will light up the Alpine sky!
Events and activities in Le Corbier:
Here are the events to enjoy in Le Corbier over the Christmas period:
- 22 December: welcome drink with local herbal tea and hot chocolate.
- 22 December: Introduction to sledge-joering for children, pulled by a horse.
- 24 December: torchlight parade and fireworks display.
As for the activities on offer in the region during the winter, they include:
Nordic walking, snowshoeing, dog-sledding, snowmobiling, tobogganing, paragliding, microlighting, heated swimming pool, etc.
Where to stay in Le Corbier: Chalet Bendo
Chalet Bendo is a beautifully-decorated chalet made of wood and stone, in a natural setting just a 15-minute walk from the ski lifts. The living room is particularly comfortable, with a fireplace and picture windows overlooking the Sybelles landscape.
The view from the large furnished terrace and the hot tub must be one of the best in the area. The chalet also has a ski room and a sauna, so you can enjoy an active yet relaxing winter holiday.
7. Samoëns: an authentic and friendly Christmas holiday
As soon as the winter season begins, Samoëns is dressed for Christmas: twinkling lights, the smell of cinnamon and Christmas carols fill its cobbled streets. This unspoilt village in the heart of the Grand Massif is the only resort in the French Alps to be listed as a historic monument.
Samoëns organises a wide range of family activities in its pedestrianised town centre, including concerts, an ice sculpture competition, tombolas and snowman workshops.
Throughout the winter, a free shuttle bus runs between Morillon and Sixt, giving guests access to a total of 265km of pistes. The snow is regular and plentiful, as 80% of the pistes face north. The resort also has three leisure parks for freestyle skiers.
Events and activities in Samoëns:
Here are some of the events taking place in Samoëns over the festive period:
- 7 December: Christmas run through the village for all ages.
- 7–8 and 14–15 December: Christmas village, with shows and street entertainment.
- From 21 December to 3 January: Christmas village, with shows and street entertainment.
Winter activities in the region include:
Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice climbing, off-piste skiing, tobogganing, snowmobiling, paragliding, ice skating, cold-water swimming, biathlon, wellness sessions, etc.
Where to stay in Samoëns: Chalet Pativerdan
This comfortable wood and stone chalet for 10 guests is located in a quiet residential area, 2km from the centre of the village and 1km from the ski lifts. Its beautiful covered terrace offers breathtaking views of the mountains.
The chalet has all the facilities you need for a stay with children of all ages, including a mezzanine playroom, table football, high chair, cot and more. Guests also appreciate the hot tub, fireplace and plenty of natural light.
Click here for more information on Chalet Pativerdan
Our chalets in Samoëns
8. La Fouly: a magical Christmas at the foot of the glaciers
La Fouly offers the perfect blend of fairytale atmosphere and natural surroundings. The Dolent, Tour Noir and Aiguille d’Argentière peaks that surround the village will provide a dream backdrop for your family Christmas photos.
There’s always plenty to do in this picturesque resort in the Swiss Alps. There’s a ski school for beginners, as well as freeride areas and several runs for experienced skiers. Marked snowshoe trails take you through the snow-covered forests surrounding the resort.
Whether you’re looking for an active holiday or a rejuvenating break, La Fouly guarantees a traditional Christmas away from the beaten track. As well as its incomparable setting, this charming Alpine village also offers festive events to celebrate Christmas and the end of the year in style…
Events and activities in La Fouly:
Celebrate Christmas with the whole family at these events taking place in the La Fouly area:
- 22 December: Christmas concert by the brass band in Orsières.
- 25 December: surprise arrival of Father Christmas on the slopes.
- 27 December: night-time toboggan run.
As for the activities on offer in the region during the winter, they include:
Cross-country skiing, ski touring, snowshoeing, ice climbing, sledging, paragliding, ice skating, walks with Saint Bernards dogs.
Where to stay in La Fouly: Chalet Cinq Moutons
One of the highlights of Chalet Cinq Moutons is its fabulous landscaped garden, which showcases all the splendour of the mountains. There are several terraces, ponds, small waterfalls and a path lined with sculptures. A river formed by a glacier flows below the garden.
Inside, this 14-person chalet is just as luxurious. It includes a gym with shower and sauna, as well as an indoor hot tub overlooking the garden. Large windows allow you to enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains and valley. The ski bus stops 200 metres away.
Warmth, hospitality, happiness, entertainment… As the festive season approaches, when cobbled streets and wooden chalets are decked out in colours and lights, each of these authentic Alpine villages offers the whole family the chance to enjoy a traditional Christmas together.
To help you plan your Christmas skiing holiday, take a look at the following articles:
- The best Christmas markets in the Alps
- 5 reasons to visit the Alps in December
- What to do in the mountains this winter if you’re not skiing
Choose your chalet in the Alps
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