France is one of Europe’s most popular ski destinations, offering world-class resorts, varied terrain, and reliable snow conditions. The French ski season generally runs from late November through to late April, though opening and closing dates vary depending on altitude, location, and snowfall.
High-altitude resorts and glacier ski areas tend to open earlier and stay open longer, while lower resorts are more dependent on seasonal snowfall and weather conditions.
The Newhaven-Dieppe ferry is my favourite discovery, offering numerous ideal ski trips in France from Sussex. Although these 3 ski resorts are at least an 8-hour drive from Dieppe, this gives you the opportunity to stop off along the way and make a road trip of it.
Newhaven – Dieppe Ferry
The Newhaven to Dieppe ferry offers a scenic way to travel from Sussex to northern France, making it an ideal option for ski trips in France, day trips, weekend breaks or extended European road trips.
Operated by DFDS, the crossing takes around four hours and runs up to twice daily, with both day and overnight sailings available.
Passengers can enjoy onboard cafés, comfortable seating, and sea views while avoiding the stress of airports.
With Dieppe’s historic harbour, beaches, markets, and easy rail connections to Paris and beyond, this ferry route provides a convenient and enjoyable gateway to France directly from the Sussex coast.
Ski Trips in France
When is the ski season in France?
Early Ski Season
The early ski season usually begins in late November or early December, particularly in high-altitude resorts such as Val Thorens, Tignes, and Les Arcs. This period is ideal for keen skiers eager to get on the slopes before peak season crowds arrive.
While snow conditions can be very good at higher elevations, not all runs or lifts may be open, and resort atmospheres are generally quieter. Early-season skiing often comes with lower accommodation prices and fewer visitors.
Peak Ski Season
Peak season is the most popular time to ski in France, offering the best overall snow reliability and fully operational resorts. This period includes the busy Christmas and New Year holidays, February half-term, and Easter breaks.
During peak season, skiers can expect a full range of open pistes, lively resort atmospheres, and a wide selection of events, ski schools, and après-ski options. Prices are higher and resorts busier, particularly during school holidays, but conditions are generally excellent for skiers of all abilities.
Spring Skiing
Spring skiing in France offers a more relaxed and scenic experience. Longer daylight hours, warmer temperatures, and sunny days make this a favourite time for many visitors. High-altitude resorts continue to offer good snow conditions, especially in the mornings, while afternoons are perfect for leisurely lunches and après-ski in the sun.
Spring is ideal for families, intermediate skiers, and those looking to combine skiing with a slower-paced alpine break. Resorts with glacier skiing are often able to stay open into late April.
Snow Reliability and Choosing the Right Resort
Snow reliability in France largely depends on altitude. Resorts situated above 1,800 metres typically enjoy longer seasons and more consistent snow cover. If you’re planning an early or late-season trip, choosing a high-altitude or glacier-backed resort will significantly improve your chances of good skiing conditions.
Best Time to Go Skiing in France
For quieter slopes and excellent snow, January is often considered the best month to ski in France, excluding the first week after New Year. For a balance of sunshine, good conditions, and fewer crowds, late March is another popular choice.
Top 3 Ski Trips in France
Les Arcs
Les Arcs is a high-altitude ski resort in the French Alps, celebrated for its varied terrain, reliable snow conditions, and excellent accessibility. Part of the vast Paradiski ski area, Les Arcs is linked to La Plagne, offering skiers and snowboarders access to hundreds of kilometres of pistes suitable for all abilities.
The resort is made up of several villages, Arc 1600, 1800, 1950, and 2000, with each offering a distinct atmosphere, from family-friendly slopes to lively après-ski and luxury ski-in, ski-out accommodation.
Beginners will find gentle nursery slopes and excellent ski schools, while intermediates can enjoy long cruising blues and reds. Advanced skiers are drawn to the legendary Aiguille Rouge, delivering an unforgettable high-altitude descent with dramatic Alpine views.
With direct train access to Bourg-Saint-Maurice followed by a scenic funicular ride, Les Arcs is one of the most convenient French ski resorts to reach.
Add in a strong food scene, buzzing mountain bars, and breathtaking scenery, and Les Arcs offers a well-rounded alpine experience ideal for families, couples, and adventurous skiers alike.
If you are flying to Lyon airport, then you can consider this quick Lyon to Les Arcs route.
Dieppe to Les Arcs is approximately 8 hours in the car.
Val d’Isère
Val d’Isère is one of France’s most famous and snow-sure ski resorts, popular with confident skiers and snowboarders. It forms part of the Espace Killy ski area (linked with Tignes), offering vast, high-altitude terrain, long runs, and excellent off-piste opportunities.
With skiing up to 3,456 m on the Grande Motte glacier, it’s a great choice for early or late-season trips. The resort also has a lively après-ski scene alongside a traditional alpine village feel.
Dieppe to Les Arcs is approximately 9 hours in the car.
Méribel
Located in the heart of the Three Valleys, the world’s largest ski area, Méribel is ideal for intermediates and families who want access to endless pistes.
The resort is known for its chalet-style architecture, tree-lined runs, and central position, making it easy to explore Courchevel and Val Thorens. Méribel offers a good balance of excellent skiing, pretty scenery, and a relaxed but sociable atmosphere.
Dieppe to Les Arcs is approximately 8 hours in the car.
This article highlights easy and inspiring trips from Sussex, from ferry crossings to France to short European getaways. With excellent transport links, Sussex is the perfect base for simple day trips and memorable escapes further afield.