Best ski resorts near Grenoble
It may not be the first choice of airport or city for the keen skiers and boarders wanting to head to their favourite ski destinations, but it should be put on the radar. Let's find out why.
Grenoble is a classic French city in the South East of the country, sitting at the foot of the Alps and between the Isere rivers. Grenoble is a gateway to some fantastic resorts in the French Alps, with some being just 40 minutes away from the city. Hop in a car or prebook a cheap transfer, and you can be hitting the slopes or sipping on a vin chaud in under 1 hour in a rustic and authentic mountain village. Or alternatively, venture just a little further afield, and you can be carving your own fresh powder tracks on a glacier or hitting the apres bars in one of France's major ski resorts.
We are here to show you how Grenoble can be your hotspot for this coming winter season, giving you easy and speedy access to some of the best ski resorts France has to offer. So throw on your favourite ski jackets and ski pants, kick back and enjoy 10 of the best ski resorts near Grenoble.
Dress warm, ski hard - preparing for Grenoble
Seize the moment and kickstart your grand ski vacation near Grenoble! Don't forget to pack the essentials for both comfort and style. Make sure to include your preferred ski trousers for women and ski trousers for men in your luggage. These crucial pieces enable you to hit the snowy slopes in style. With everything in check, the whole family is ready for their next awesome ski getaway!
Getting to Grenoble
Grenoble city centre to the Grenoble Alpes Isere Airport is 44.6km away and only a 30-minute drive away. There is an easy transfer between one another using their shuttle service, but if you are flying into Grenoble and going straight to resort, then it is recommended to organise your transfer straight from the airport. We would also suggest keeping your eye out for some free shuttle services that run from the city to certain nearby resorts on weekends.
At Grenoble airport there is an abundance of pre-bookable transfer bus services, getting your return transport directly to your resort and sometimes to the door of your accommodation. Of course, if you are coming straight from Grenoble city or wanting to self drive from the airport, hiring a car is always a fun and flexible option. With many resorts being under 1 hour away, this could be a good way to do some exploring.
What are you waiting for? Pack your favourite womens ski jacket or mens ski jacket and bring the whole family to your next awesome ski vacation near Grenoble!
Ski resorts close to Grenoble - Quick find navigation
Les Sept Laux
Saint Pierre de Chartreuse
Autrans- La Sure
Chamrousse
Alpe d’Huez
Les Deux Alpes
Vaujany- Alpette
La Grave
Les Menuires
La Clusaz
Under 1 hour away from Grenoble
Les Sept Laux
Where: Arrondissement of Grenoble, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Distance from Grenoble: 39 mins (35km)
Ski-Able Terrain: 120km
Elevation: 1,350 and 2,400 m.
The closest resort to Grenoble is the ski area of Les 7 Laux in the Belldonne mountain range. It is made up of 3 villages Le Pleynet, Prapoutel and Pipay, which all have access to the 120km of slopes. Each village has its own charm, for example, Prapoutel is a family resort with lots of amenities, whilst Pipay has an authentic traditional French Alpine theme. Up on the mountain, there is an abundance of slopes to keep everyone occupied. The ski area has famously been updated in the last 10 years, with new lift systems and remapping of slopes, plus constantly progressing facilities and snowparks to keep up with industry trends. This resort is innovating each year, which makes it exciting and unique to many of the old school resorts in the Alps.
Ridestore recommends:
The Ho5 snow park, changes its layout every year, keeping it fresh and exciting.
Saint Pierre de Chartreuse
Where: Arrondissement of Grenoble, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Distance from Grenoble: 40 mins (27.4km)
Ski-Able Terrain: 35km
Elevation: 900 and 1,800 m.
The city folk of Grenoble are lucky to have Saint Pierre de Chartreuse under an hour away, so they can be on their skis ready to have a big day on the mountain in no time at all. Nestled into the Chartreuse National Park, the village and the slopes are beautifully hidden amongst the forest, giving a major Narnia vibe. Although the skiing is limited to only 35km, it is perfect for a weekend away and for those wanting to take it easy on the slopes. The town is low and therefore not as snow sure as many resorts in the French Alps, but it is quaint and rustic, so gives you a cosy, warming Alpine atmosphere. But don’t be fooled by its picture-postcard exterior, Saint Pierre is still pretty vibrant all year round.
Ridestore recommends:
Keep an eye out for the weather forecast and make sure to head to St Pierre after a big dump.
Autrans- La Sure
Where: Arrondissement of Grenoble, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Distance from Grenoble: 45 mins (39.5km)
Ski-Able Terrain: 20km
Elevation: 1,050 and 1,710 m
Autrans is another ski village close to Grenoble, you can be there quickly the moment the snow starts to come down or for a spontaneous weekend away. As authentic mountain villages go, Autrans fits the bill with its traditional wooden architecture and cobbled streets- it doesn’t get much more French Alpine than this. Also enjoy the calm and laid back atmosphere, with very few foreign tourists causing queues or cutting up the pistes, but instead mingle amongst the locals on a quiet mountain. The one thing you must take time for is their famous cross country skiing. There may be only 20km of downhill, but there is 160km of trails to go after, so it makes sense that the resort is known as the French capital for cross country.
Ridestore recommends:
Of course if you haven’t tried cross country skiing, then this is the place to give it a go!
Over 1 hour away from Grenoble
Chamrousse ski resort
Where: Arrondissement of Grenoble, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Distance from Grenoble: 1 hr 33.4km
Ski-Able Terrain: 90km
Elevation: 1,400 and 2,250 m
Chamrousse is another awesome French ski resort that flys under the radar for most foreign tourists, but this doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit- in fact, we would say this should be a top choice. Avoid the crowds and ski on well-groomed pistes through the forest, perfect for those wanting to build their confidence. There are a decent amount of pistes to go after, keeping the crew occupied during their well-earned ski trip. The village is split into two, connected by a good bus service, but considering how spread out the resort is, it maybe isn’t ideal for young families. Those groups wanting to make the most of activities off the skis/ snowboard as much as on, then Chamrousse has a lot to offer, with snowmobiling, ice-driving and snowshoeing to name just a few.
Ridestore recommends:
For those looking for a challenge, try the old Olympic run Casserousse Couloir.
Alpe d’Huez ski resort
Where: Isère, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Distance from Grenoble: 1 hr 5 mins 62.1km
Ski-Able Terrain: 250km
Elevation: 1,125 and 3,330 m
Just over an hour from Grenoble, you will be in the famously sunny resort of Alpe d’Huez. But don’t think the sunny days mean a lack of snow, the resort is high and snow-sure with its glacier keeping the conditions immaculate all season long. For those in the mood for deep and untouched snow, the Pic Blanc glacier is perfect for a free riding challenge. Whilst families, a little further down the mountain, are well looked after with excellent ski schools and child care facilities to be found. If you fancy exploring off the slopes, there are tonnes to do in this vibrant and large resort, including outdoor swimming pools, an Alpine Coaster and exciting apres bars.
Ridestore recommends:
Advanced riders can enjoy the longest black piste in the world, Sarene, with an impressive length of 16 km.
Les Deux Alpes ski resort
Where: Isère, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Distance from Grenoble: 1 hr 10 mins 71km
Ski-Able Terrain: 200km
Elevation: 1,280 and 3,523 m.
Head to the epic Les Deux Alpes, which is a popular resort in France, famous for its snow-sure conditions and high altitude skiing. The resort is home to the largest skiable glacier in Europe which ensures for good quality snow all year round, so ideal for a last-minute break. The high altitude and glacier make it a playground for advanced and backcountry riders, as they can make the most of the deep powder and varied terrain.
The resort itself is large and vibrant, which means that you can have as much fun off the slopes as on you can on. If you still have some energy after a long mountain day, there are plenty of bars, restaurants and apres-ski parties to enjoy.
Ridestore recommends:
A visit to The Pano bar is an ideal way to end the day, with a boogy and a beer.
Vaujany- Alpette
Where: Isère, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Distance from Grenoble: 1 hr 30 mins 61.8km
Ski-Able Terrain: 70km
Elevation: 1250m – 3330m
Vaujany is a small resort attached to the famous Alpe d’ Huez, but even on its own, it has a decent 70km as part of the Montfrais area. It used to be a rustic, mountain village but now it has been put on the map because of its connection with the sister resort. But you can head to Vaujany to avoid the major tourist crowds and experience something a little more authentic. The local ski area is mainly for the beginners looking to improve their skills, whilst the intermediates and experts amongst you have got the 250km of playground in Alpe d’Huez. Speaking of playgrounds, Vaujany is the epitome of family-friendly, being honoured with the Famille Plus title, which means the little ones will never have a dull moment.
Ridestore recommends:
There are free weekend buses from Grenoble, so time your break right to make the most of this amazing offer.
Over 90 minutes away from Grenoble
La Grave ski resort
Where: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Hautes Alpes, France
Distance from Grenoble: 1 hr 39 mins 119.3km
Ski-Able Terrain: 3km (19km of unmarked pistes)
Elevation: Village- 1525m 1,470 and 3,534 m.
La Grave is another hidden gem, but is adored by those in the know- it is not like many other resorts in the Alps and it is exceptionally unique. The catch? Well, there is only 3km of marked piste, with 1 main gondola from the village to the summit and the rest is unmarked, unpatrolled off-piste. La Grave is heaven for expert riders and thrill-seekers looking for freeride and backcountry bliss. It also has one of the highest summits in the Alps (3543m), so it is difficult to see how La Grave has stayed low key with such good snow quality and assurance. Spend your days picking your lines through the couloirs and powder fields and feel the freedom to choose any route to the bottom. The resort itself is not as vibrant as many other French resorts, but therefore perfect to relax, fuel up and get an early night to make the most of the mountain.
Ridestore recommends:
For the ultimate unfiltered riding experience, go to the summit and ski the 1 marked run all the way to the village with a descent of 2150m.
Les Menuires
Where: 3 Valleys, Savoie Mont Blanc, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Distance from Grenoble: 1 hr 40 mins 133.4km
Ski-Able Terrain: 600km
Elevation: 1100 m – 3230 m
The three valleys are notoriously a burden to get to from the major airports in France, however, people tend to forget about the other small villages within the 3Vvalleys, like Les Menuires. The beauty is that in under 2 hours from Grenoble, you can be in the 3 Valleys without paying the accommodation prices or subjected to the crowds. Les Menuires is a purpose-built resort, that is essentially built into the mountain and adjacent to the famous slopes of the area. Although it doesn’t offer the same vibrancy of bars and restaurants as nearby Val Thorens, you are so close to the action you can still take part. You can then pop your skis on outside the door of your accommodation and be in the thick of the best skiing in the world, catering to all abilities and needs.
Ridestore recommends:
Make sure to get a 3 Valleys ski pass, although expensive, you will have 600km of skiing at your fingertips.
La Clusaz ski resort
Where: Bornes Aravis, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Savoie Mont Blanc, France
Distance from Grenoble: 1 hr 44 mins (161.7km)
Ski-Able Terrain: 125km
Elevation: 1040 m – 2477 m
La Clusaz is a secret people are reluctant to share because of its 125km of well-groomed and quiet slopes. La Clusaz is a small, quaint and traditional French ski resort that oozes rustic Alpine culture- without the influx of foreign tourists, the resort remains authentic. On the mountain, the slopes cater to the intermediates primarily, which can be ideal for those wanting to progress, but yet still be enjoyed by thrill-seekers looking to pick up speed on long runs. The rumours also have it, that the freeriding is epic and still mostly undiscovered, so fresh tracks are still possible. The secret is slowly spreading about this low-key resort, so head there quick before the word gets out!
Ridestore recommends:
Get a Massif des Aravis ski pass and get to explore the surrounding resorts on the easy shuttle service.
FAQs
Are the resorts near Grenoble suitable for absolute beginners?
Yes, many of the resorts close to Grenoble, like Les Sept Laux, are known for their varied slopes that cater to different skill levels, making them ideal for beginners.
Are there family-friendly activities at these resorts?
Absolutely, many of these resorts offer family-friendly activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and snowshoe tours. Some resorts, like Les Sept Laux, also have regularly updated snow parks perfect for family fun.
Wrapping up
So there we have 10 awesome resorts all within 2 hours from Grenoble. You can use Grenoble as your hub to access most major resorts in France, but also to explore some of the quieter, more traditional and old school mountain villages. Grenoble can be a great option to avoid the mass crowds of Geneva and the skyrocket prices of flying into those major airports and the hefty transfer costs- this sounds smart to us!
Don’t miss a trick- book your flights to Grenoble ASAP before the word gets out!
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