The Cote d’Azur is one of the best places to visit in summertime – from the glitz and glamour of Cannes to the high-end hotels around Cap d’Antibes, the area has a je ne sais quoi which has attracted international tourists since the Jazz Age.
However, the contemporary global health situation means that the current Twenties are troubled rather than roaring, with the result that if you were booked to fly into the French Riviera anytime soon, chances are your trip is postponed indefinitely.
But don’t give up on your French vacation dreams just yet, because by opting for a snowsports holiday in the French Alps, you might be able to experience chilled-out Gallic charm in autumn/winter 2020/21.
With that in mind, here’s why you should swap sandals for skis for your next French vacay.
Skiing does wonders for your wellbeing
As well as being fantastic fun, skiing keeps you physically fit, burns a shedload of calories and can ever contribute to positive mental wellbeing.
It’s estimated that 4 hours on the slopes can burn anything between 1200-2400 calories and there’s also scientific evidence of the postural and psycho-social benefits of skiing.
And apart from bonding with your friends and family, you’ll probably meet likeminded people in your resort who you’ll click with over hot chocolates or mulled wine – so all in all, what’s not to love?
Apres Ski is awesome
Even some avid skiers and snowboarders sometimes appreciate the Apres-Ski just as much as their adrenalin-fuelled antics on the slopes during the daytime.
And in French ski resorts like Val d’Isere, Meribel, Alpe d’Huez, Val Thorens and Courchevel, there are cafes, restaurants, bars and clubs aplenty where you can socialise over fine food, cool cocktails and ice cold beer, with entertainment including everything from karaoke, to live bands and DJs.
One note of caution though – don’t eat and drink too much or you’ll soon pile on those calories you burnt off as you whizzed down the blue, red or black runs earlier in the day!
Alpine Scenery is stunning
If you’re a nature lover, you’ll be glad to know that the scenery in this part of the world is simply stunning.
From the Chamonix Valley you can gaze at the glory of Mont Blanc in all its 4807 metres of majesty, while scented pines, lush meadows, rushing streams and charming chalets combine to create a pristine picture postcard scene.
Annecy is another gorgeous Alpine town where you can wander by the Thiou River and stop at a café for a glass of rose while you watch swans glide by gracefully on the glistening water.
And at Avoriaz in the Portes du Soleil area, you can soak up the scenery in perfect safety and serenity because the resort is traffic-free.
If this sounds good, a ski travel firm like Erna Low can create a customised package for you that includes accommodation, ski passes and even lessons.
Hopefully you’re now convinced that French snow can be just as conducive to having a good time as its sea and sand – you can thank us later!
