Top 5 Cities to Choose This Winter

Updated on 25-07-2022 | Venue guides and suggestions

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Winter is approaching, and you lack inspiration for your next destination? Here is a selection of the 5 must-see cities for a successful winter stay!

Le Sappey-en-Chartreuse

In winter, Le Sappey-en-Chartreuse becomes a ski resort that will appeal to thrill-seekers. Enjoy the snowy slopes or venture out on hikes that will reveal the magnificent natural heritage of Isère. You can also find remarkable monuments such as the church of Sappey-en-Chartreuse dating from the 12th century or the superb fort of Saint-Eynard which dominates the mountains at an altitude of 1,338 m. In the fort, you can access a museum where you will find splendid models and many period objects that will teach you more about the history of the fort of Saint-Eynard. To find more information on the various tours and hikes offered by the municipality, visit the tourist information office located in the town of Sappey-en-Chartreuse.

Bonneval-sur-Arc

Last Savoyard village of authentic mountain habitat. Nestled in the Haute-Maurienne valley between 1,800 and 3,638 meters of altitude, the character village of Bonneval-sur-Arc welcomes you, in summer as in winter, in a warm setting. You can get closer to the peaks by passing through the Vanoise park. Known as a family resort village, Bonneval-sur-arc will welcome you in its magnificent stone chalets. Classified among the most beautiful villages in France. Stroll through the alleys of the town adorned with its stone houses that time seems to have frozen. For passing sportsmen, hikes to the refuges of Carro and Évettes will amaze you with the panoramas they offer. For those who like to ski, it is the ideal place to go and enjoy the 32KM of slopes during the good seasons. Don't forget your insulated stainless steel water bottle which will allow you to hydrate well and enjoy your tea or coffee at the right temperature during your activities. This village is synonymous with letting go, and taking a big breath of fresh air.

Gerardmer

This small town surrounds a superb wild lake of glacial origin, reflecting it in its waters. You will understand why Gérardmer is nicknamed "the pearl of the Vosges"! This ski resort offers many sports activities. Many hiking trails start from Gérardmer through the largest fir forest in Europe. In winter, go to its ski resort, the second largest area in the Vosges.

Villefranche-de-Conflent

A medieval city, founded by the Count of Cerdagne, then remodeled by the famous Vauban, Villefranche-de-Conflent is located in the heart of the mountains. Surrounded by ramparts, its fortifications and paved roads have earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Inside the city, ranked among the most beautiful in France, you will love getting lost in the narrow streets, among the old shops.

Saint-Lary-Soulan

The most popular family ski resort in the Pyrenees, the village of Saint-Lary-Soulan is also characterized by its small stone houses. You will also find in the village the house of the bear, where you can, via an interactive visit, discover the Pyrenean bear. In the surroundings, take a tour of the Néouvielle nature reserve, the first reserve in France where you will find a diverse fauna and flora.

To find more information on these cities or discover new ones, do not hesitate to visit the site or the application of the digital travel guide iti tour for free, which lists hundreds of French cities and villages to visit.