The French Alps are a winter paradise. Snow-blanketed mountains, picture-perfect villages, and the crisp mountain air come together to create a near-perfect getaway. From bustling ski resorts to luxurious chalets tucked into the hillsides, it offers something for every kind of traveller. For those craving a winter adventure like no other, heli-skiing, or heli-snowboarding in the Alps, delivers the ultimate high-altitude escape.
Heli-skiing and heli-snowboarding are adventure sports in which a helicopter works like a chairlift and takes you to remote downhill skiing areas, where ski lifts can’t reach. Heli-skiing, as the name suggests, is done with two skis and poles, which offer control on steep, varied slopes. Heli-snowboarding, on the other hand, relies on a single board. If the idea of accessing fresh terrain and riding through untouched snow gets your heart racing, a heli-snowboarding or heli-skiing tour might be right for you.
While heli-skiing isn’t permitted in France, you can take off in a helicopter from France and land across the border in Italy. With many ski resorts in the French Alps located near the border, arranging a heli-skiing trip is quite simple.
Top Destinations for Heli-Skiing and Heli-Snowboarding Tours
Valgrisenche
Valgrisenche, tucked along the French-Italian border, is an absolute paradise for heli-skiers and heli-snowboarders. This long, picturesque valley lets you ski on both sides, with peaks rising over 3000 meters. Valgrisenche is famous for its deep, powdery snow and calm weather, which is why helicopters fly here more often than in other places. The valley has no glaciers, which makes skiing safer. Some routes are up to 1800 metres long, so you get more time on the slopes and better value for your money.
Val Veny
Set in the Mont Blanc massif, southwest of Courmayeur, Val Veny is perfect for heli-skiing. It has glacier-fed terrain, and offers an unforgettable experience, especially for first-time skiers. Drop-offs take place between 3000 and 3500 metres, allowing you to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the Alps.
La Thuile
La Thuile in Italy’s Aosta Valley offers a truly exceptional heli-snowboarding tour for skiers. With drop-offs reaching up to a maximum height of 3480 metres, you’ll be able to catch breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and the Rutor glacier. The entire experience is complemented by deep snowfall and fresh powder covering the slopes all season. The untouched terrain of La Thuile provides an authentic skiing and snowboarding experience for intermediate to expert-level skiers.
ONE Hôtel Privé Ski Chalets in France – Where Luxury Meets Adventure
Le Blanchot
Surrounded by snow-covered pines, Chalet Le Blanchot by ONE Hôtel Privé in Courchevel 1850 is the perfect destination for winter sports lovers. The exquisite décor of the chalet, showcasing polished stones, wood panelling, and fine leather, reflects the craftsmanship of skilled artisans. The chalet can accommodate up to 12 guests and provides customised services like gourmet dining and relaxing saunas. Enjoy your days soaking in the magnificent Alpine views and your nights cosying up by the open fireplaces.
Le Coquelicot
Chalet Le Coquelicot by ONE Hôtel Privé offers stunning views of the snowy slopes of Les Trois Vallées, allowing you to feel one with nature. The chalet’s interiors feel luxurious, with dark woods, polished stones, and distinctive furnishings. Le Coquelicot features a steam room, a luxurious jacuzzi, and soothing massage facilities, making it an ideal luxury retreat in one of the world’s most exclusive mountain destinations.
Book your heli-snowboarding or heli-skiing tour along with a stay at one of One Hôtel Privé’s luxurious chalets.
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