Imagine waking up on Christmas morning and pulling back the curtains to blue skies, crisp alpine air and snow-topped pines. Villages glow with twinkling lights, the mountains feel calm and fresh, and there’s the simple joy of carving the first tracks of the day with the people you love.
There’s something truly magical about spending Christmas in the mountains. If you’re dreaming of skiing over the festive season, the Three Valleys in the French Alps — including Méribel, La Tania and Courchevel — is one of the most enchanting places in Europe to make that dream a reality.
With a little planning and the right support in place, a Christmas ski trip can feel calm and magical – full of small, memorable moments that quietly turn into lifelong memories.
Why Choose The Three Valleys At Christmas?
The Three Valleys is the largest interconnected ski area in the world with over 600km of slopes and terrain for every ability, from gentle beginner runs to long cruising blues and challenging reds.
At Christmas, the region transforms into a true winter wonderland. Snow-covered villages are dressed in lights, festive markets pop up in resort centres, and seasonal events bring warmth and atmosphere to your ski holiday, both on and off the slopes.
What The Festive Season Really Looks Like?
Méribel
In Méribel, the festive week is filled with alpine magic. Expect Christmas parades, live shows, twinkling lights and opportunities to meet Santa on the snow.
On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the resort comes alive with special moments including torchlight descents, mulled wine gatherings and fireworks that light up the mountains. It’s a wonderful atmosphere for families and anyone experiencing a festive ski trip for the first time.
Courchevel
Courchevel fully embraces the festive season, with Christmas markets in Le Praz, traditional activities and a warm alpine ambience across its charming villages.
La Tania offers a quieter, more tucked-away feel, ideal if you’re looking for a cosy family-friendly base. It’s calm and welcoming, while still being fully connected to the wider Three Valleys ski area.
Festive Experiences Worth Trying
Torchlight Descents Across Les 3 Vallées
Watching ski instructors and local ski schools descend the mountain with flaming torches is a breathtaking festive highlight, and a moment that truly captures the magic of Christmas in the Alps.
Christmas Markets & Alpine Treats
Sip mulled wine, savour local cheeses, and wander through wooden chalet stalls filled with gifts and seasonal produce.
Family-Friendly Skiing For Every Level
With terrain suited to complete beginners through to experts, the Three Valleys makes it easy for families and groups of mixed abilities to ski together and create shared memories.
To find out more about festive events and timings this winter, visit the Three Valleys website.
Step-by-Step: How to Plan Your Christmas Ski Trip
1. Book Early
Christmas is one of the busiest weeks of the season, so booking ahead makes all the difference. Pre-booking your ski equipment and delivery helps you avoid queues and ensures the right gear is ready when you arrive.
With Ski Higher’s mobile delivery service, your skis can be waiting at your chalet or hotel, giving you more time to enjoy the mountains and less time dealing with logistics.
2. Pack Smart
Festive skiing brings chilly mornings, cosy evenings and plenty of time outdoors. Pack:
- High-quality thermals and waterproof layers
- Warm accessories (gloves, neck gaiters, wool socks)
- Casual outfits for dinners and evening strolls through the village
Leave the bulky equipment behind and rent skis, boots and poles locally at Ski Higher to keep travel simple and stress-free.
3. Choose Where To Stay
- Méribel Centre is ideal if you love village buzz, shops and easy access to après-ski.
- La Tania suits families or anyone seeking a calmer, more relaxed village atmosphere.
- Courchevel’s villages range from chic to traditional, all with their own festive charm.
4. Plan Events & Experiences
From Christmas markets to fireworks and torchlight descents, festive events vary by resort and date. It’s worth checking local calendars so you don’t miss the highlights.
Some experiences to pencil in:
- Santa visits and children’s activities
- Mulled wine and festive treats at markets
- Torchlight ski parades on Christmas Eve
- Après-ski with live music and seasonal cheer
5. Hit The Slopes Early
Christmas week is popular, but the Three Valleys’ modern lift system and high-altitude terrain keep skiing smooth and enjoyable. Starting your day early means quieter lifts, softer morning snow and longer, more relaxed ski days.
Final Tips For A Magical Christmas Ski Week
- Pack early and double-check your bookings (gear, lift passes, accommodation).
- Pre-book ski hire & delivery with Ski Higher, it’s one less thing to think about when you arrive.
- Balance planned experiences with free time on the slopes.
- Embrace the festive atmosphere: it’s part of what makes skiing at Christmas so magical!