This year the Telegraph reported that France is the world’s most popular country with approximately 84 million visitors per year. The beautiful countryside and vibrant cities are a joy to visit, especially during the summer months but there are plenty of holiday experiences on offer over the winter season too.
From first class skiing on the slopes of Val d’Isere to luxury spa holidays in Evian to the Christmas markets of Paris, France is a hotbed of winter getaways.
Image alt tag – take a ski holiday in Val d’Isere
Go Skiing
There’s no argument that France offers some of the best ski resorts in the world and Val d’Isere provides 300Km of pistes as well as the world’s highest extended skiing terrain. Its location next to the Italian border means assured snow from November through to May and this resort allows for a variety of ski skills including snowboarding and cross-country skiing. One of the major bonuses is that although Val is a superb resort the prices aren’t prohibitive, which is the reason why its slopes is a major draw for students. There’s also a range of great accommodation available including budget chalets, luxury hotels and apartments to suit your specific ski holiday.
Live in Luxury
If you’re looking to enjoy a French getaway that’s a little bit more relaxing then look into staying at a luxury spa hotel. This country is famous for its spa towns such as Vichy, Plombières-les-Bains and of course the world famous Evian on the shores of Lake Geneva. The healing thermal springs are a major attraction but the magnificent lakes or beach settings, the atmospheric restaurants and the luxury hotel accommodation options are just as rejuvenating. The winter season is one of the best times to visit for some serious relaxation before the Christmas period. You might also bag a discount.
Image alt tag – Christmas market in Paris
Christmas in Paris
The festive season brings a magical atmosphere to one of the world’s most romantic cities (if not THE most romantic). The magnificent illuminations and the immense Christmas market along the Avenue des Champs-Elysees are well worth the trip alone. This beautiful city does of course offer a wealth of bars and restaurants that become extra lively at this time of year. Sightseeing is more of a relaxed affair during the winter months and you also have a greater chance of obtaining indulgent luxury accommodation at reduced prices during the cold months of winter.
The food, the wine, the sightseeing and simply the enchanting atmosphere makes France an always desirable destination. This country is extremely popular for a reason and its one of those holiday options that’s worth visiting even the cold, long nights crawl in.
Images by Saint Cristo and Jeremey Couture, used under the Creative Commons license.
