Holiday Velvet Travel Blog

Monday, October 16, 2006

ART: Skiing in France

If you are fond of skiing, then France is the destination for you. In France there are a number of skiing resorts. These resorts offer you a variety of options but one should consider your skill level before choosing the resort. French resorts are scattered across seven mountain ranges. Chamonix, Alpe d’Huez and The Three Valleys are some of the main ski resorts in France; each one is offering a different and varied skiing terrain.

Chamonix is considered the birthplace of mountaineering and is located on the foot of the Mont-Blanc which is also on the list of World heritage sites. This resort is full of visitors throughout the year and the resort has on offer something for everyone. The official ski season starts around mid-December and runs up to 8th May. Though the altitude of the resort is as low as 1035 m most of the ski areass are located at a height of 2000 m. There are three different ski arenas, which are well connected by very capable shuttle bus service and a special sightseeing train. Grands Montets the so called Mecca for skiers is the specialty of this resort. Tramway du Mont-Blanc, France's highest cog railway takes you to the top of the Aiguille du Mid. For a change you can enjoy walking on the 17 km of footpaths through the picturesque landscapes. A large sports complex and The Alpine Museum are also on offer for the visitors at this resort.

Alpe d’Huez has got the nick name 'L'Ile au Soleil' and is located in the Grandes Rousses mountains. It is ranked the fifth largest ski area In France. This skiing resort is widely popular among the beginners of skiing due to its wide gentle slopes and the availability of ski schools. These local ski schools have a great reputation in giving the beginner the best start. For intermediates in particular, this resort offers a wide range of choice of blues and reds. Among other things available at this resort are a sports complex, good child care and lively night life.

The Three Valleys is the largest ski area in the world. The three valleys is the formation of four different resorts namely: Courchevel, Meribel, Les Menuires, and Val Thorens. A variety of ski options are available here according to the skill level of the skier. Courchevel, Meribel offers easy trials for the average skier, where as Les Menuires, and Val Thorens are destinations for the experts.

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