Winter is approaching, and so is the desire to ski... but the wallet isn't always ready to follow. Between ski passes, equipment and accommodation, skiing can quickly become a luxury. However, resorts all over France have decided to play the accessibility card and preserve what's essential: the pleasure of being in the mountains, without sacrificing your budget.
From the Alps to the Pyrenees, via the Chartreuse, they are coming up with lots of good ideas: reduced rates, family offers, free children's passes, targeted promotions, all-inclusive packages... A round-up of the best deals for enjoying the snow this winter at low prices.
Family skiing on a budget
Some areas have not forgotten that the mountains are first and foremost about sharing.
À Valloire, Families are in for a treat, with a €18 discount per package on stays of 6 to 8 days, as long as purchases are made after Saturday lunchtime. A bargain for large groups, valid throughout the season.
Same spirit for Flaine, Children under eight can ski for free throughout the Grand Massif. A simple voucher when booking is all that's needed to open the doors of the ski area to the youngest guests, as an invitation to experience their first sensations in the mountains, at no extra cost.
Anticipation and the right timetable
A good plan that's often underestimated? Getting there early... or arriving at the right time.
À Orcières, Propul's offer rewards those who plan ahead: up to -25 % off for all bookings made before midnight on the eve of the first day of skiing. Enough to make you want to get organised... or, on the contrary, to give in to a well-calculated impulse.
Visit Valmorel, Winter weekends are a real bargain. Depending on the period, Saturdays can fall at 29 €, and on Sundays at 41 € in low season, with a discount also applicable on certain Saturdays in high season. The only rule: book the day before at the latest.
Small resorts, low prices
For those who prefer tranquil panoramas to queues, there are a few nuggets that focus on simplicity.
Le Chartreuse Massif is a reminder that there is still gentle skiing, far from the noise and crowds. Nine family resorts, serene or technical slopes to suit all tastes, and adult ski passes for under €20 a day. An unspoilt mountain, a calmer pace, and a light bill: the very definition of a good deal.
In the heart of the Hautes-Alpes, Pelvoux-Vallouise continues to epitomise the accessible mountain: 27 per day for an adult, €23 for a child. An area that focuses as much on friendliness as on price, and has established itself as one of the five most affordable resorts in France.
Skiing in January, a sure bet
For those who have the freedom to go away outside the school holidays, winter offers even more.
From 10 to 16 January, Altiservice break prices in the Pyrenees : -40 % on 4, 5 and 6 day passes at Font-Romeu Pyrénées 2000 and Saint-Lary. Cold snow, quiet slopes, a peaceful atmosphere: it's quite simply the best week of the season for combining pleasure and economy.
What about day skiers? During the February holidays, Saint-Lary is offering four Saturdays at 45 € instead of 54 €. Perfect for an impromptu jaunt with friends or a family outing without adding to the bill.
Beginners: offers designed with you in mind
Those making their first tracks will also find opportunities.
À Valloire, There are three dedicated areas where you can gain altitude to 25.90 per day, With access to selected lifts, you can learn at your own pace.
À Flaine, There are several covered carpets, protected areas and lifts accessible... free of charge. A real white carpet for beginners.
À Orcières, Every Tuesday morning, from 8am to 9am, beginners can enjoy an hour's free tuition, including equipment. It's a gentle, fun way to discover skiing, with no financial barriers.
And to Vaujany, For the very young (aged three and over), a 30-minute individual session is designed to gently introduce them to the sensations of the snow. Price : 39 €, including a smile.
Packages + leisure: the intelligent formula
Skiing yes, but enjoying the whole resort is even better. À Orcières, The Horizon Pass includes access not only to the ski area, but also to the Palais des Sports swimming pool and ice rink, for as little as two days' ski pass. A complete après-ski experience, at no extra cost.
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