The South of France might be known for its coastline but also has several good ski resorts within driving distance. These resorts offer some great skiing opportunities and are ideal for a weekend break or a longer stay if you have time.

The ski season in the South of France lasts from December to April and some of the best ski resorts within driving distance of the coastline include Les Orres, Isola 2000, Auron, Val D'Ollos, and Courchevel. Most of these ski resorts are accessible to everyone, Courchevel, on the other hand, is a bit pricier, so if you're on a budget or trying to not spend too much the other resorts are more suitable.

The two ski resorts that might just be the most popular among yacht crew are Isola 2000 and Auron. Both of these are convenient for even a day trip up to the mountains if you don't have much time as they are only a one-and-a-half drive away from Antibes if you leave at a decent time in the morning.

They are also good ski resorts if you are just beginning on the slopes. Isola 2000 and Auron have a large range of slopes for beginners so they are also good ski resorts to just practice on before going onto the steeper slopes.

If you are looking for something close to Antibes, Cannes, or Nice, these two resorts are the best options:

Auron ski resort

With its 135 km of ski slopes ranging from black to green runs, Auron is the largest ski resort in the Alpes-Maritimes department. Auron is situated in the Mercantour National Park and is known for its wide variety of slopes and off-piste terrain, making it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.

If you prefer keeping off skis, in Auron you can also find a number of great off-ski activities such as petanque on ice, snowshoeing, sled dog rides, tobogganing, snowmobiles, ice climbing and ice-skating. There are also several restaurants, bars and other amenities in the resort, as well as a variety of après-ski activities and entertainment. Auron is also well-known for its night-skiing, where skiers can enjoy the slopes under the stars.

It's a 1:45min drive from Antibes if you have a crew car, or a 2h bus ride with the 91 bus from the Nice Airport. The price of the bus ticket is 1,50€ and the ride offers nice mountain views.

Number of green slopes: 3

Number of blue slopes: 17

Number of red slopes: 15

Number of black slopes: 8

Isola 2000

Isola 2000 might be the one of the most popular ski resorts in the area with a total of 45 ski slopes, including 3 black, 13 red, 22 blue, and 7 green, between 1800m and 2610m.

Recently, Isola 2000 have spiced up their game by adding a few innovative concepts for people to have even more fun.

The Yooner: Similar to carting on the snow, you are sat down on a spatula trapped to your skis and it's easy to master. it's very popular in many resorts and people are loving it in Isola 2000.

The Airboard: It resembles a little inflatable ring; you lie your head down first and then just go down the slope! The sensation of speed is amazing with the airboard.

The Isol'Air: Best one yet, with this you will have no more fear before attempting new skills or jumps, it's basically just a big cushion of air that's used to break a big fall. A bit like getting rid of the risk but keeping the adrenaline buzz.

To get to Isola 2000, you can either take a car or catch the 750 bus that leaves Nice Airport. The bus ticket prices are the same as the bus for Auron, you can pre-purchase a ticket if it's more convenient or grab one once you are on the bus.

Number of green slopes: 7

Number of blue slopes: 22

Number of red slopes: 13

Number of black slopes: 3

Les Orres

Located in the Hautes-Alpes region, Les Orres offers a wide range of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, as well as a variety of off-piste skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The resort also features a snowpark for freestyle enthusiasts and a variety of shops, restaurants, and accommodations.

The resort is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and its excellent snow conditions, thanks to its high-altitude location and modern snowmaking facilities. Les Orres features a variety of slopes that cater to all skill levels, from beginner to expert. The resort also has a snowpark and a boardercross area for freestyle enthusiasts, and it also offers a variety of off-piste skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The resort also offers a variety of activities for non-skiers, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and paragliding.

Les Orres is accessible by car, but also by public transportation, it's about 3 hours by train from Nice, and then by bus or taxi to the ski resort. It is also possible to take a shuttle bus service from the nearest train stations directly to the ski resort.

Number of green slopes: 10

Number of blue slopes: 4

Number of red slopes: 18

Number of black slopes: 4

Val d'Allos le Seignus

Val d'Allos le Seignus is a ski resort located in the Southern French Alps, about 3 hours drive from Nice. It is part of the Val d'Allos ski area, which also includes the resort of Val d'Allos La Foux. The ski area offers a wide range of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, with a total of 90km of marked runs.

The resort is also known for its panoramic views of the Southern French Alps and its natural environment. It offers a variety of off-piste skiing and snowboarding opportunities, as well as ski touring and freeride.

Number of green slopes: 8%

Number of blue slopes: 45%

Number of red slopes: 34%

Number of black slopes: 14%

Courchevel

If you have a weekend off and would prefer a bit of exclusivity, you can visit Courchevel, a well-known luxurious ski resort located a 6h car ride from the coast in the French Alps. Courchevel is not one resort, but four separate ski resorts linked by lifts, slopes and roads, making it one of the largest ski areas in the world. The resort is known for its high-end amenities and exclusive atmosphere.

Courchevel is also known for its challenging and high-altitude slopes, which are well suited for experienced skiers and snowboarders.

Number of green slopes: +100

Number of blue slopes: +100

Number of red slopes: +100

Number of black slopes: +100

Don’t forget Aprés Ski!

The best part of skiing is when you get to the end of the day and can just enjoy the crazy party life the resorts have to offer.

L'aprés ski is usually from around 3 pm to 7 pm. Live and loud music will attract you to it for some fun and drinks.

The activities generally include a mix of entertainment, dining and nightlife options such as live music, dancing, and comedy shows at local bars and nightclubs.

Aprés ski also includes visiting a restaurant for a fondue or raclette dinner. This is a good cozy way to warm up after a day on the slopes. Many ski resorts in the South of France also have spa facilities, such as saunas, hot tubs, and massage rooms, which offer a great way to relax and unwind after a day on the slopes.