France - The Perfect 2009 Ski Holiday Destination

The French Pyrenees contains many spectacular ski resorts. One notable resort is Bareges-La Mongie, which is the second oldest resort in the country. Once used as a military training base, this is the largest ski area in the French Pyrenees, featuring over 100 kilometers of lift-served ski runs. There are many more kilometers of off-piste skiing to be discovered and enjoyed, and snowboarding is gaining popularity.

In the early days of the Winter Olympics, many champions came from this area to dominate the sport. The hotels in the village are full of old-fashioned charm and avoid the lifeless feel of modern hotels. Several airports are located within an hour or two of the area, and both the highway system and railways come through the area.

Another great ski resort in the Pyrenees is Saint-Lary-Soulan. There are fifty-three pistes in the resort, with over 100 kilometers of runs. The resort is divided into three sections. There is a family section, an experienced skiing section, and a snow park section. Each section features a wide variety of runs, and the snow park has lake access for snow-shoeing. There are restaurants showcasing a wide variety of culinary delights from all over the world, as well as fine French cuisine.

The French Alps offer beautiful resorts for everyone in the family, from the pro to the novice. The Alpine mountain range extends into Switzerland, Germany and Italy in addition to France, but many experts agree that the best skiing is found in the French part of the mountain range. In fact, the range allows for year-round skiing conditions.

If you're a thrill seeking expert skier, be sure to check out the slopes of Chamonix. It is the highest peak in Europe, nestled in a beautiful skiing town. Imagine the rush as you rapidly descend nearly 16,000 feet from the top of Mont Blanc. If such a rush is at the top of your to-do list, be sure to check into Chamonix.

Are you looking for a little less death-defying action on the slopes on your French skiing holiday? Try out the slopes of Val d'Isere. It is one of the most family friendly ski villages in all of France. Novices and children will particularly enjoy the fact that certain slopes are reserved exclusively for the inexperienced in Val d'Isere. Of course, there are slopes of each difficulty in the village, so skiers looking for a challenge are welcomed, as well. Val d'Isere became well-known when characters in the British sitcom Absolutely Fabulous vacationed there regularly.

Whether you choose to take a ski holiday in the Pyrenees or Alps, skiing the mountains of France is an adventure for beginners and experts alike. From breathtaking vistas to the finest resorts in Europe, French skiing has something special for everyone, for couples and families alike.