Sunny days, fairly reliable snow cover and quieter ski runs make March the ideal time to explore the natural treasures of the Alps.
In this article, we tell you where and why you should go skiing in March, and give you some tips on how to make the most of your spring skiing holiday.
Why ski in the Alps in March
Even if the snow conditions are not as predictable as they are at the height of the season, there are several very good reasons to choose March for skiing in the Alps…
Fewer holidaymakers
As soon as the February holidays are over, the vast majority of visitors leave the ski resorts. This will leave you more room on the slopes, as well as in the ski schools, shops and restaurants. There are shorter queues at ticket offices and ski lifts, a better choice of accommodation… in short, it’s paradise!
Fewer skiers on the slopes means less chance of accidents and more peaceful skiing. That’s why this time of year is particularly recommended for those who are not entirely confident on their skis.
Milder weather
It’s true that winter in the mountains is magnificent, but it can also be brutally cold! From the first weeks of March, temperatures rise by an average of 3 to 5 degrees – that’s enough to warm up the whole family’s enthusiasm to get out on the slopes!
The sun can also make a welcome appearance, and you’ll need to adjust your clothing to suit the heat. Make sure you have several layers of clothing to take off as the day goes on, and a rucksack to store them in. But avoid the slopes that are too sunny in the afternoon, to make sure the snow is stable.
Lower prices
As in all tourist destinations, prices in the mountains fluctuate according to the number of visitors. Following the high demand in the February holidays, ski resorts are keen to attract new visitors by offering promotions.
This applies to ski passes, equipment and lessons, as well as certain off-piste activities and sometimes even accommodation.
Good to know: Our special offers page lists all the discounts available on all our partner chalets. Discounts for next March are already available!
The snow is easier to tackle
Because of the biting cold at night, spring snow is often icy in the early hours of the morning. However, it then “warms up” under the sun, softening and transforming into superb powder.
Easier to ski, this sort of snow is particularly suitable for beginners and off-piste skiing. The warmth melts icy patches much more quickly than in winter, reducing the risk of injury in the event of a fall.
The best places to ski in March
Morzine & the Portes du Soleil: a powder paradise
A cosy little retreat in the splendid Portes du Soleil area, Morzine is one of the Alps’ most popular destinations for families. Holder of the “Famille Plus” label, it combines Savoyard charm with a wide range of facilities, entertainment and activities.
The ski area offers 650km of pistes at altitude, including beginners’ areas and night skiing. There are plenty of activities for children, including tobogganing, horse-drawn carriage rides, bowling, an indoor swimming pool and an ice rink.
Manigod: the serenity of the mountains
If you’re looking for a quiet ski holiday where you can recharge your batteries, Manigod is the resort for you. This peaceful destination in the Aravis mountains promises both a generous blanket of snow and sunny skies.
The ESF at Manigod offers lessons for all levels, and you’ll have access to a wide variety of slopes, as well as night skiing. Cross-country skiers will love the trails on the Beauregard plateau, with its superb views of Mont Blanc.
Saint-Gervais & Évasion Mont-Blanc: a magical setting
This may seem like a surprising choice for the uninitiated, but during the first week of March, Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, a small resort in the Évasion Mont-Blanc area, receives the most snow.
This charming traditional village, which enjoyed its heyday as a spa destination in the early 19th century, also has some excellent après-ski addresses. And if you want to relax at the end of the day, treat yourself to a visit to the Thermes de Saint-Gervais Mont-Blanc.
Val d’Isère: the high-altitude retreat
With slopes rising to a height of 3,456m, Val d’Isère is one of France’s highest ski resorts, and its snow conditions remain excellent even as spring approaches. Its wide variety of terrain is suitable for all levels.
Nearby Tignes also benefits from the majestic presence of the Grande Motte glacier, which offers more skiing opportunities. There’s plenty to do in the centres of both resorts, with several bars and restaurants, shops and numerous activities.
La Clusaz & les Aravis: the family choice
The typical Savoyard atmosphere of La Clusaz is increasingly popular with families looking for Alpine charm away from the hustle and bustle of the bigger resorts. In fact, the resort is very much child-friendly, with ski schools dedicated to the very young.
La Clusaz has a fantastic ski area and enjoys excellent snow conditions in winter, thanks to the altitude of some of its slopes – up to 2,600 metres. Nearby Manigod offers free sessions on the paret, a traditional toboggan that children love!
Morillon & the Grand Massif: an early hint of spring
The Grand Massif ski area is a real playground for adults and children of all ages. The Morillon ski area includes an area for beginners (the “Children’s Village”), with an introduction to skiing for youngsters from the age of 3.
What’s more, with altitudes of up to 2,500m, the snow conditions are excellent, making it possible to enjoy a ski-in/ski-out holiday for most of March. Off the slopes, you can enjoy dog-sleigh rides, cave exploration, glacier climbing and much more.
Off-piste and après-ski activities in March in the Alps
Ice skating, hot air ballooning, a day at the spa, mountain biking… the resorts of the Alps are full of activities to do alongside skiing. And if the snow is poor, it’s always good to have a plan B.
Good to know: Remember that lower-altitude resorts where the snow has already melted will be able to offer you other types of activities.
Here are our top 5 activities to try in the resorts of the Alps:
Hiking or snow-shoeing
What could be more magical than exploring a snow-covered landscape under a clear spring sky? In this season of new beginnings, nature gradually awakens under the warmth of the sun.
So put on your snowshoes or snow boots and set off to discover the forests and valleys along the region’s many marked footpaths. You can also hire a guide to help you learn more about the flora and fauna of the Alps.
Dog sleigh rides
Another way to explore the Alps is aboard a sledge pulled by adorable huskies. Many resorts offer this family activity, with prices varying according to the size of your group and the length of the excursion you choose. The ride is often free for accompanied young children, and they’re sure to come back from the ride thrilled by their adventure!
A spa session
After an exhausting day on the slopes, it’s time to relax in a sauna or on a massage table! After all, you’re on holiday, and the start of spring is an ideal time to pamper yourself and recharge your batteries. Many spa establishments across the Alps offer wellness and relaxation sessions.
Good to know: Most OVO Network partner chalets have their own wellness facilities included in the price of rental, allowing you to enjoy a hot tub, sauna, steam room or even a heated swimming pool during your ski holiday.
Glacier climbing
Guests looking for an adrenalin rush can try this type of climbing, which you’ll only find in the mountains. This very physical activity involves climbing along icy waterfalls using ice axes, crampons, ice screws and more. The equipment will be provided by the agency with which you book your excursion.
Wine and cheese tasting
With its gourmet specialities and many regional cheeses, Savoie is renowned the world over for its gastronomy. Three of its wines, including the famous Roussette de Savoie, have a Protected Designation of Origin. Numerous wine and cheese tasting outlets are available in the resorts or can be arranged in the comfort of your own chalet.
To round off your day on a high note, many of the bars and restaurants across the Alps offer a variety of entertainment. From a musical quiz in an Irish pub to a DJ set in a trendy bar, or a gourmet dinner in a Michelin-starred restaurant, the après-ski offerings in the Alpine resorts have something for everyone.
How to make the most of a ski holiday in spring
The obvious advantage of spring skiing is that you can enjoy the slopes without the crowds of the February holidays. The days on the slopes are shorter, however, as the snow tends to turn to slush by early afternoon.
Be careful not to go skiing too early, though, as the snow cover is likely to be icy. In these conditions, sharp skis will help you maintain your footing.
To get the most out of your skiing session, take advantage of the height of the slopes and opt for sunny slopes in the morning, while shady slopes will remain accessible for longer in the afternoon.
Good to know: With fewer clouds and lighter winds, temperatures can feel warmer than usual. And remember that the sun’s reflection off the snow creates greater exposure. So make sure you protect yourself from the sun.
The Alps continue to offer excellent skiing conditions, even as winter slowly turns to spring. Each of the resorts featured in this article has its own character and offers a wide variety of winter activities and terrain, with optimum snow cover and glorious sunshine.
Now that you know where to ski in March, book your stay in the Alps now! You’ll enjoy milder temperatures, quieter slopes and traditional Savoyard charm.
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