A fan of France, fresh mountain air, picturesque winter landscapes but not too keen on the skiing part? No problem. There are many things you can do in the French Alps that don’t involve actually putting on a pair of skis. Be inspired by these ideas, from total relaxation, authentic shopping to other winter sports.
Dine at a cult Thai restaurant
Ibiza’s cult Thai restaurant Pom Thaï opens this month in Courchevel 1850, bringing a fresh, cosmopolitan energy to the slopes. Known on the White Isle for its devoted creative following and quietly confident style, Pom Thaï translates its signature blend of authentic Thai flavours, ancient cooking techniques and refined presentation to an Alpine setting – offering a welcome alternative to traditional après-ski dining. The Courchevel outpost captures the brand’s warm, unpretentious spirit, with a menu designed for sharing, a standout wine list and a relaxed yet elevated atmosphere that speaks to the continued rise of experience-led luxury travel. It’s a concept that taps into the growing trend for “travel through taste”, where skiers and non-skiing winter travellers seek memorable, globally inspired dining as part of the overall destination experience.
Treat yourself to a thermal pool and spa day
Now you feel like you’re on holiday… Many resorts have indoor spa facilities, but if yours doesn’t, there’s sure to be somewhere to go nearby. What could be more luxurious than relaxing in water, outside, with snow all around you? Les Grands Bains du Monêtier just north of Briançon in the Alps, is a popular location, with great facilities and incredible views.
Try snowshoeing, snowboarding or sledging
Skiing isn’t the only sport in town. If you’re keen to fill your days outside or on the slopes (so you feel like you actually deserve the après-ski) but skiing isn’t for you, then get in touch with the chalet or resort where you’re staying in advance to find out what other activities are available. Snowshoeing, for example, is the perfect activity if you want to get out on the mountains in a more leisurely fashion. Many resorts will hire out poles, snowshoes and maps of good trails.
Wander the Christmas markets
If you’re visiting the French Alps in the run up to the festive season, a Christmas market visit is a must. Ask the resort where you’re based for a list of the closest ones. The ski resort of Courchevel is well-known for its Christmas market, as is Megève, though there will be plenty of other options.
Visit Grotte de Glace
Grotte de Glace is the ultimate ice cave. To reach the cave, take the train to Montenvers from the centre of Chamonix, finishing the journey in a small cable car from the train station onto the Mer de Glace. The cave has to be altered each year due to the glacial shifts and the whole experience is pretty otherworldly.
Indulge in delicious French food
Who needs skiing when you’re in France and surrounded by all the tasty dishes that go with it? You might have canteen-style meals at your resort, but make sure you spend the evenings exploring local corners of the nearby villages and towns for unique brasseries and restaurants. Whatever the options, including a glass of red and something with cheese means you can’t go wrong!
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Snap some pictures
The French Alps can’t be beaten for photography. If you’re more arty and less sporty, just because everyone else is skiing around you doesn’t mean you can’t explore the landscape from a photography point of view. Many resorts offer guided walks where you’ll be taken to the really exquisite spots in terms of views and vegetation.
Explore villages nearby
Just because there’s snow, that doesn’t mean exploring is off the cards. Depending on where you base yourself in the Alps, plan a few neighbouring towns and villages to visit. You’ll get more of a taste of the local way of life away from resorts, and make the most of local events and festivals. The towns of Chambéry and Annecy are particularly delightful, whatever time of year.
Get to know Annecy when you book one of these tours and experiences.
The Thiou canal in Old Town of Annecy
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©Armando Oliveira / Shutterstock
Catch a cable car
Who doesn’t love a cable car ride? If you’re staying in Grenoble, then you have to take a ride on the Grenoble-Bastille cable car referred to as Les bulles by locals, which connects the centre of Grenoble to an old fortress, ‘Bastille’. The views are just spectacular looking back over the city. Rise up the mountains even more by catching the Aiguille du Midi, the ultimate cable-car journey from Chamonix up to a dizzying height of 3,842 metres.
Include a Grenoble getaway
If you want to be in the French Alps but skiing doesn’t excite you, then what about a city break? Decide on an urban base and head out into the mountains for day trips. Grenoble, often called the ‘Capital of the Alps’, is a university city and a buzzing base from which to delve into the neighbouring scenery. Ski resorts circle the city at varying lengths and so combining a city break with a long weekend in a chalet is easy.
Discover the Capital of the Alps with a local expert on one of these tours and experiences in Grenoble.
Relax with a hot mug and the views
Finally (as if an excuse is needed) just sit back and relax. Take in the big landscapes, the fresh air, the sun bouncing off the mountain peaks. If you’ve been meaning to read that book, write that letter or make some plans, this is the time. Pour yourself a cup of your favourite tipple and just take in the scenery, waiting for everyone else to finish their day skiing.
Trips and Tours in France
Historical Landmark, Architectural Landmark
xbrchx / Shutterstock
Explore the best of France from the stunning capital city Paris to the beautiful calm of the Riviera in the South. With fine cuisine, Alpine wilderness and a rich history, this is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
About the author
Holly is a freelance writer based in Béziers, South of France. From London to a life in the Languedoc, she has written for French Property News and Living France among other titles and covers travel, lifestyle and culture.
She can be followed at: www.lostinthelanguedoc.com
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