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- Best Ski Resorts to Drive to from the UK
As winter approaches, many skiers and snowboarders in the UK start planning their trips to the slopes. Discover some of the closest ski resorts to drive to from UK. While flying can be convenient, it sometimes comes with delays, baggage fees, and airport hassles.
For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of airports, driving to a ski resort offers flexibility, convenience, and the opportunity to take in the stunning scenery along the way. Here, we’ll explore the best ski resorts to drive to from the UK, highlighting five fantastic destinations for your next winter getaway.
Why choose ski holidays without flights? Opting for ski holidays without flights has several advantages. First, driving eliminates the stress of airport security and the unpredictability of flight schedules. You can bring your own equipment without worrying about extra baggage fees, and you have the flexibility to stop and explore along the way. Plus, there are several ski resorts close to airports, making it easy to transition from driving to skiing if you choose.
Morzine, France
Located in the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski area, Morzine is a charming alpine town that offers a mix of traditional French culture and modern amenities. The resort boasts over 650km of interconnected ski runs, catering to all levels of skiers. Whether you’re a beginner looking for gentle slopes or an experienced skier seeking challenging runs, Morzine has it all.
The resort is almost 545 miles from Calais, the drive takes around 10-12 hours, making it one of the closest ski resorts to drive to from the UK. Choose to travel on the Eurotunnel or the ferry across the Channel, then enjoy a scenic drive through France. Off the slope, Morzine offers vibrant après-ski options, including cozy bars and excellent dining. The picturesque village is also perfect for non-skiers, with plenty of winter activities like snowshoeing, tobogganing and ice skating.
Chamonix, France
This ski area is popular for its breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and its challenging slopes. As one of the oldest ski resorts in the world, Chamonix has fascinating historic roots and excellent skiing. It features diverse terrain, including the famous Vallée Blanche off-piste route, making it a paradise for advanced skiers.
Chamonix is around 555 miles from Calais, with a drive of 12-14 hours. It’s best to share the journey or make a stop-over in one of the picturesque towns en route. Chamonix is not just for skiers. The town itself is vibrant, with a lively atmosphere, excellent restaurants, and a range of winter activities. You can try ice climbing, paragliding, or simply enjoy the stunning mountain scenery from a beautiful snow-shoe route.
Les Deux Alpes, France
This ski resort is famous for its glacier skiing, offering snow-sure skiing from early December until spring. It has a mix of runs suitable for all levels, but it is particularly suited for intermediate and advanced skiers. The vast ski area is complemented by a lively après-ski scene, making it a popular choice for those who like to celebrate the day with a drink.
The ski area is 620 miles from Calais, with a drive time of around 10-12 hours, making it one of the closest ski resorts to drive to from the UK. It is one of the best ski resorts to drive to from the UK. In addition to fantastic skiing, Les Deux Alpes features one of the largest skiable glaciers in Europe, ensuring excellent conditions. The resort also hosts various events throughout the winter season, including snowsports competitions and music festivals.
Find out more about Les Deux Alpes
La Plagne, France
Part of the vast Paradiski area, La Plagne offers over 400km of ski runs across several linked resorts. This family-friendly destination is perfect for skiers of all levels, with plenty of blue and red runs, as well as dedicated areas for beginners. La Plagne is also known for its picturesque villages and stunning mountain views.
La Plagne is approximately 580 miles from Calais, with a driving time of 12-14 hours. The area offers a wide range of activities for non-skiers, including tobogganing, snowshoeing, and even dog sledding. The resort is known for its excellent family facilities, making it a great choice for a winter holiday with the little ones.
Alpe d’Huez, France
Alpe d’Huez is a ski resort famous for its sunny weather and extensive ski area, featuring over 250km of skiable terrain. The ski area boasts an impressive elevation, ensuring excellent snow-sure conditions from early winter up until spring. The resort caters to all ski levels, with a variety of runs and a great ski school for beginners.
The region is 580 miles from Calais, taking around 12-14 hours in the car. Beyond skiing, Alpe d’Huez offers stunning panoramic views, a lively après-ski scene, and a range of activities such as ice skating and snowmobiling. The resort is also known for its friendly atmosphere and vibrant village life. It’s a great destination for all ages and abilities.
Find out more about Alpe d’Huez
Tips for a seamless car journey
Before heading on your trip, we recommend taking a few steps to ensure a safe journey to the Alps. Having a list of the closest ski resorts to drive to from the UK is important so you can choose the best and most convenient region to book. Planning your route and knowing exactly where you’ll be stopping on the way. Being organised will eliminate the worry of finding somewhere to rest or take a break.
We also recommend checking your car to ensure it is winter-ready and adhering to any precautions on European roads. Most countries will require winter tires or snow chains, so make sure you’re able to use these when necessary. Servicing your car will be important as breakdown cover can add up abroad, so check the engine’s fluid levels.
One of the biggest perks of self-driving is that you’re not confined to just one suitcase like you are on airplanes. However, packing efficiently is important. Ensure you’re packing exactly what you need for your trip, fortunately, you won’t have the restrictions on liquids so that’s a plus!
Finally, keeping an eye on the road conditions is imperative. Be in the know about weather conditions up ahead or traffic to ensure a smooth journey to the Alps. Identifying an alternative route should there be a disruption will you get to the mountains quicker.
To find out more about the best ski resorts to drive to from the UK visit our website or call 020 8410 2000. Read more about driving to the Alps in our guide.
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