Fewer people on the slopes, longer days and often cheaper ski passes: spring skiing is attracting more and more holidaymakers. Some resorts in the Alps still offer excellent conditions until the end of April or even the beginning of May. Here are five ideal destinations to make the most of the last turns of the season.
Tignes - Val d'Isère, a safe bet until May
When most resorts close their lifts, Tignes and Val d'Isère continue to operate at full capacity. The linked ski area, perched at an altitude of 2,100 metres, generally maintains a solid snow cover until the beginning of May.
In spring, the resort's atmosphere changes. The terraces fill up, the days get longer and there are more and more events. In Tignes, Spring Break brings the end of the season to life with concerts, entertainment and unusual activities. In Val d'Isère, the festivities are just as lively, with festivals, competitions and evenings at altitude.
As a result, you can still ski in the morning on firm snow, then enjoy the afternoon in the sunshine facing the Vanoise peaks.
Val Thorens, the highest skiing in Europe
Perched at an altitude of 2,300 metres, Val Thorens is one of the most reliable resorts for late-season skiing. In the 3 Vallées, winter naturally lasts until May.
In spring, skiers can take advantage of a huge ski area, often with much quieter slopes than in February.
The resort also cultivates a festive atmosphere to close the season, notably during La Grande Dernière, a weekend that has become a cult event with waterslides, barbecues and concerts. It's the ideal playground for a string of long runs in the spring sunshine.
La Plagne, great skiing in the sunshine
With slopes peaking at over 3,000 metres, La Plagne remains a safe bet for late-season skiing. The Paradiski area, linked to Les Arcs, still offers excellent conditions in April.
Spring skiing here takes on a special dimension. The slopes remain well covered with snow at altitude, while the villages begin to enjoy the first signs of spring.
The resort also organises a number of events on the summits, which are transformed into real areas for entertainment and relaxation. A successful blend of great skiing and a gentler atmosphere.
La Rosière, sun and escapade in Italy
Facing Mont Blanc, La Rosière enjoys exceptional sunshine in spring. Linked to the Italian resort of La Thuile, it offers cross-border skiing that is particularly enjoyable at this time of year.
The ideal programme? Enjoy the French slopes in the morning, then switch to the Italian side for lunch on the terrace before setting off again for the slopes of the Aosta Valley.
With its open slopes and high altitude, the resort remains a favourite destination for spring skiing.
Bonneval-sur-Arc, the wild gem at the end of the season
In the Maurienne valley, Bonneval-sur-Arc is a resort in a class of its own. There are no large developments or oversized snow fronts here. The village has retained its traditional architecture and authentic atmosphere.
The ski area stretches from 1,800 to 3,000 metres, which means that you can often ski until the end of April in a spectacular setting at the foot of the Col de l'Iseran.
In spring, the resort attracts nature-loving mountain enthusiasts, as well as ski-touring fans, who can take advantage of the ideal conditions to venture to the surrounding peaks.