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Discover the family-friendly Southern French Alps
If you haven't skied in the Southern French Alps yet, you might be missing out on an incredible family holiday... find out more about 4 Southern Alps resorts we think should be on your radar!
An historic town with direct access to 250km of skiing in Serre Chevalier
Briançon is officially Europe's highest town, and its historic centre with its fortifications is a UNESCO world heritage site. With excellent skiing in the ski area it shares with Serre Chevalier, this is an attractive destination for both skiers and non-skiers.
The old military district is being transformed with new accommodation like Daffy, a property offering hotel rooms, suites and apartments , and exuding retro vibes, add a flexible accommodation option.
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Briançon Quick Facts
- Ski area: Grand Serre Che
- Resort height: 1326m
- Resort top height: 2800m
- Km piste: 250
- Distance from Calais: 613 miles (9h50)
- Lift pass: ££££
- No. of slopes: 80
- Green slopes: 14
- Blue slopes: 25
- Red slopes: 28
- Black slopes: 13
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Beginners:
★ ★ ★
-
Intermediate:
★ ★ ★ ★
-
Expert:
★ ★ ★
-
Boarders:
★ ★ ★ ★
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Freeride:
★ ★ ★ ★
Highlights
Ski area with a mixture of wooded and open runs
Vibrant historic town atmosphere
Good choice of restaurants
Plenty to offer non-skiers
Gondola access to skiing from the town
Rejuvenated military district with modern accommodation
Travel options
Eurotunnel LeShuttle
All our ski holidays packages include a return standard Eurotunnel LeShuttle crossing.
included
Ferry crossings
Ferry crossings can be arranged on request as an alternative travel option to our standard return Eurotunnel Le Shuttle crossing.
bookable
Private transfers
We can help you get from your arrival airport or train station to your resort.
bookable
Trains to the French Alps
Train travel to the French Alps is a convenient, low-stress alternative to flying or driving.
bookable
Eurotunnel LeShuttle
All our ski holidays packages include a return standard Eurotunnel LeShuttle crossing.
included
Ferry crossings
Ferry crossings can be arranged on request as an alternative travel option to our standard return Eurotunnel Le Shuttle crossing.
bookable
Private transfers
We can help you get from your arrival airport or train station to your resort.
bookable
Trains to the French Alps
Train travel to the French Alps is a convenient, low-stress alternative to flying or driving.
bookable
More Ski Services
More Ski Services
We pride ourselves on going the extra mile.
We pride ourselves on going the extra mile, from helping you navigate ski school options to offering tailored advice on the best resorts and accommodation.
Peak Retreats has defended its position as [Best Ski Operator in the Telegraph Travel Awards] - a victory that is testament to the operator's ability to understand the changing demands of British skiers.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions about Briançon
What is there for non-skiers in Briançon?
Briançon’s old town is a beautiful place to wander. The fortified Cité Vauban boasts cobbled streets, buildings with colourful facades, a twin-towered 18th century church and picturesque squares, as well as cosy restaurants and local shops to explore. The surrounding Vauban forts are fascinating for history-lovers and have spectacular views over the valley.
The town also has a casino, cinemas and an Olympic size indoor ice rink where the local ice hockey team, the Diables Rouges (red devils), plays. In January, the town is host of the Altitude Jazz festival.
Leisure facilities include a pool complex incorporating an indoor pool, a fun pool with bubble beds, waterfalls and a lazy river, as well as hot tub, sauna and steam room.
What ski area is Briançon part of?
Skiing from Briançon is in the Serre Chevalier ski area. Serre Chevalier is the resort name for the three main villages (Villeneuve, Chantemerle and Monêtier-les-Bains) and town (Briançon) that are located in a sunny south-facing valley at the foot of the most beautiful peaks in the Ecrins National Park. All are linked by 250 km of ski runs and a local bus service.
How do I access the skiing from Briançon?
The Prorel gondola leaves from the town to join the ski area. Conditions permitting, you can ski back to the bottom of the gondola on a red run. The views from the gondola really show off Briançon’s fortifications.
What is the accommodation like in Briançon?
The Daffy hotel and apartments are in a rejuvenated area that was previously a military district and has been sympathically redeveloped whilst keeping the old garrison style buildings. Inside, Daffy is anything but stuffy, it has a relaxed 90s retro vibe and fun décor. There's also a lively restaurant and bar.
Why choose Briançon over the other Serre Chevalier villages?
If you are looking to combine cultural visits and history with your skiing, then Briançon is ideal, as it has all of that within the town as well as a lovely historic centre to wander.
The interconnecting valley bus service does means that you could stay in other Serre Chevalier villages and visit Briançon but, particularly if you have non-skiers in your party, then staying in Briançon is more convenient and you still have access to the same ski area.
Briançon also has a larger selection of shops, restaurants and bars and more of a town feel than a small ski village so it depends what atmosphere you prefer.
What lift pass do I need if I am staying in Briançon?
Briançon is covered by the Serre Chevalier lift pass, giving access to 250km of slopes. We can prebook this for you, and in most cases, we’ll send these to you before you go so you are ready to get on the slopes.
Can I pre-book ski hire in Briançon?
Yes, we can arrange this for you so that your equipment is available when you arrive. A wide range of equipment suitable for all levels, from beginner to advanced, is available. Categories include recreational skis, performance skis and premium models, as well as junior options, ensuring you are all well-equipped.
What ski school do you recommend?
We recommend the ESF French ski school in Briançon, offering lessons for children and adults Group and private lessons can be pre-booked with us, and early booking is strongly advised, especially during peak periods.
What should I know about ski essentials in Briançon?
The sooner you organise ski essentials, such as ski school, the better. Lessons can get booked up in peak periods, especially morning sessions. Having ski essentials booked with us before you go, means that you know what you’ll be spending on them and makes budgeting easier.
Briançon on the blog
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