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Top things to do in the French Alps for non-skiers

There’s no arguing that France is a top ski destination. In fact, in the 2018-2019 ski season, French ski resorts recorded more than 55 million visitors — second in the world behind only Austria.

At the epicenter of the French skiing culture is the region known as the French Alps, with its world-class ski resorts, snow-dusted villages, and incredible natural beauty. There are so many reasons to visit the French Alps in the winter, and skiing and snowboarding are just two of them. Grab a mug of hot chocolate and discover seven other things to do in the French Alps during the winter months — especially if you don’t like to ski or snowboard.

Shop the local markets

Many of the ski villages surrounding ski resorts in France host vibrant weekly markets, especially during the holiday season. While the rest of your group is hitting the slopes, spend a relaxing day browsing local markets for artisan foods, handmade goods, and quality gifts. For a truly unique holiday experience, be sure to visit Grenoble between November and Christmas Eve, when you’ll find four separate Christmas markets in the town.

Enjoy a spa day

Treat yourself to a couple of spa treatments or a full-day of indulgence at one of the French Alps’ many spas. As the snow falls in the mountains, warm up with features like thermal soaking tubs, hot tubs, saunas, and indulgent massages. You’ll find spas in many ski resorts in the region, but for something truly special, check out Le Grand Spa Thermal in Brides-les-Bains, the largest thermal spa in the alps. The Spa Deep Nature – Les Sources de Marie in Les Arcs is an incredible mineral spa comprised of themed caves — another must-see.

Take a mountaineering expedition

The resort town of Chamonix is known as the world capital of mountaineering, thanks to in excess of 10,000 mountaineering and winter hiking routes in and around iconic Mont Blanc. Breathe in that fresh mountain air as you traverse your choice of trails, with offerings for adventurers of all skill and experience levels. Not sure where to start? A guided tour is a great way to go.

Ride the Alpine Coaster in Chamonix

Want the feeling of speeding down the side of a snowy mountain without having to be an expert skier? Enter the Chamonix Luge Alpine Coaster! This almost mile-long track is great fun for the whole family. Strap in and zoom down the mountain on an adrenaline-pumping ride that includes jumps, turns, spins, and more. It’s open year round and you can even enjoy a night ride, with the whole mountainside lit up.

Try cross-country skiing

Nordic skiing is a great winter sports alternative for those who don’t want to downhill ski or snowboard. Cross-country skiing offers the ability to enjoy the beauty of the French Alps in winter, while getting some outdoor exercise. Gear rentals are available at many ski resort locations, so simply plan a sports center visit. From there, you can enjoy a guided or independent ski day on groomed trails perfect for everyone from beginners to expert Nordic skiers. Note that snowshoe excursions are also a popular option along the same trails!

Go kayaking

Water sports might not spring to mind when you think of alpine adventures, but the French Alps are home to some of the best white waters in France on rivers including the Severaisse, La Bonne, Durance, and Ubaye. Numerous tour companies offer everything from kayaking day trips to extended adventure expeditions on white water rapids ranging from class 2 to class 4. So grab a helmet and lifejacket and prepare for thrills, plenty of sunshine, breathtaking views, and a healthy dose of the beauty of northern France.

Enjoy mountain biking

When the winter snow melts in ski resorts throughout the French Alps, networks of cross-country and downhill mountain biking trails are revealed. Orcières in the Champsaur Valley in the southern French Alps is a popular summer mountain biking destination with an amazing 5,900 feet of descent. Hop on the chairlift to the top, put on your helmet, climb on your mountain bike, and prepare yourself for an adrenaline-pumping ride.

Adventure awaits and the planning starts now

Whether your favorite winter activities include skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, snow shoeing, ice skating, or even just enjoying an après ski evening with your favorite travel buddies, the French Alps are the perfect place to take your next winter trip.

As you’re planning your trip, always remember to pack your travel insurance. With a comprehensive travel insurance plan in place that includes coverage for all your favorite adventure sports, you’ll be well protected. A battleface travel insurance policy provides protection for logistical challenges like trip interruption and trip delay, inconveniences like lost or damaged luggage, and more serious issues, like travel medical insurance and emergency evacuation.

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