Chamonix

For advanced skiers Chamonix is often the benchmark every other resort is compared against. The resort has loads more character than most French resorts and is lucky to be mostly chalets and small family run hotels than mega chains of apartment blocks.

It attracts a wide variety of nations and dedicated skiers and boarders who want to discover everything Chamonix has to offer. The ski areas are spread out and can be challenging to get to, as well as ski down.

The resort centre is awash with interesting shops, lively bars and quality restaurants. The cobbled streets and river flowing through the town really add to the pleasant feeling that you are on holiday and in the mountains.

Beginners and low intermediates might struggle with the pistes, but advanced skiers looking to challenge themselves and hit some off piste need look no further.