Things to Do in the French Alps if You Don't Like Skiing

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.