France is one of the most popular Alpine ski destinations for skiers and snowboarders. It took advantage of being comparatively late to join the pantheon of ski nations.

Unlike Austria and Switzerland, where skiing evolved gradually from mountain villages, France didn’t build many of its most famous resorts (such as Les Arcs, La Plagne and Avoriaz) until the 1960s, so it was possible to select the highest, most snow-sure places to ski in France. However the initial high-rise “space-age” architecture began to fall as the decades unfolded and during the 21st century there’s been a trend to build any new accommodation in a more rustic, sympathetic style alongside the original concrete towers.  

There are of course some traditional French ski resorts, the upmarket resort of Courchevel is another area that blossomed early in the history of French skiing. Courchevel is a key gateway to the vast area of the 'Les Trois Vallées (The Three Valleys) which is arguably the biggest linked ski region in the world.

Usually associated with golden beaches and hazy sunshine, Spain has now developed a strong reputation as an excellent ski destination thanks to its impeccably-maintained runs, great value resorts and hotels, friendly atmosphere and high-quality ski schools.