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Best amenities
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Hidden gemBest amenitiesStunning viewsHidden gemBest amenitiesStunning viewsHidden gemBest amenitiesStunning viewsHidden gemSt François Longchamp is one of those French resorts that most British skiers haven't heard of - and that's a large part of its charm. Sitting in the Maurienne Valley on the southern side of the French Alps, it's a purpose-built resort split across two levels: St François 1450 at the base and St François 1650 higher up. The Maurienne is the longest valley in the French Alps but draws far fewer international visitors than the Tarentaise to the north, which means genuinely uncrowded slopes, shorter lift queues, and a more relaxed, predominantly French atmosphere. The resort was built with families in mind and it shows - the layout is compact, the infrastructure is practical, and the whole place runs with an easy, unpressured feel.
The St François Longchamp ski resort reaches 2,550m and drops 1,150m back to the village, with 70km of pistes across 41 runs served by 15 lifts - including three high-speed six-seater chairs that keep things moving efficiently. The terrain is well-balanced: 27% beginner, 37% intermediate, 29% advanced, and a handful of expert runs at the top. The resort links directly to Valmorel via the Col de la Madeleine sector, and a combined ski pass opens up around 165km of skiing across the two resorts. The longest run stretches 5km, and the season runs from mid-December to mid-April.
Away from the slopes, St François Longchamp has the comfortable, self-contained feel of a well-designed family resort. The village centres have restaurants, shops, and facilities within walking distance of the lifts, and the Maurienne Valley's lower profile means prices are noticeably easier on the wallet than the big-name Tarentaise resorts across the ridge. For families, couples, and intermediates looking for good skiing without the crowds or the premium price tag, this is a smart choice. Check out St François Longchamp ski deals to start planning your trip.
St François Longchamp is one of those French resorts that most British skiers haven't heard of - and that's a large part of its charm. Sitting in the Maurienne Valley on the southern side of the French Alps, it's a purpose-built resort split across two levels: St François 1450 at the base and St François 1650 higher up. The Maurienne is the longest valley in the French Alps but draws far fewer international visitors than the Tarentaise to the north, which means genuinely uncrowded slopes, shorter lift queues, and a more relaxed, predominantly French atmosphere. The resort was built with families in mind and it shows - the layout is compact, the infrastructure is practical, and the whole place runs with an easy, unpressured feel.
The St François Longchamp ski resort reaches 2,550m and drops 1,150m back to the village, with 70km of pistes across 41 runs served by 15 lifts - including three high-speed six-seater chairs that keep things moving efficiently. The terrain is well-balanced: 27% beginner, 37% intermediate, 29% advanced, and a handful of expert runs at the top. The resort links directly to Valmorel via the Col de la Madeleine sector, and a combined ski pass opens up around 165km of skiing across the two resorts. The longest run stretches 5km, and the season runs from mid-December to mid-April.
Away from the slopes, St François Longchamp has the comfortable, self-contained feel of a well-designed family resort. The village centres have restaurants, shops, and facilities within walking distance of the lifts, and the Maurienne Valley's lower profile means prices are noticeably easier on the wallet than the big-name Tarentaise resorts across the ridge. For families, couples, and intermediates looking for good skiing without the crowds or the premium price tag, this is a smart choice. Check out St François Longchamp ski deals to start planning your trip.
Skiing and snowboarding at St François Longchamp means a wide, sun-drenched mountainside that opens up nicely as you climb. Terrain spreads from the villages at 1,450m and 1,650m up to the Col de la Madeleine at 2,000m and on to the summit at 2,550m. Upper slopes are open and exposed with panoramic views, and the lower runs wind through forest, offering shelter on blustery days. Its dual-village layout adds an unusual touch: you can start your day at one level and finish at the other, building a route across the mountain that feels different each time.
The mountain's variety keeps skiers of every level engaged, from gentle nursery slopes near the villages to long blues and reds across the mid-mountain and steeper terrain higher up. The lift system feels efficient for the size of the area, with three high-speed six-seater chairs cutting down waiting time on the main routes. With over 40 runs to work through, there's enough range to fill a week without skiing the same lines on repeat.
St François Longchamp is a welcoming place to learn. The nursery areas at both 1450 and 1650 are spacious and gently graded, with beginner lifts including magic carpet conveyors that take the effort out of those first few days. Beginner zones are set apart from the busier runs, so new skiers can build confidence without fast traffic passing close by. From here, the progression onto long green and easy blue runs is smooth and gradual, with no sudden jumps in difficulty as you start to spread your wings across the mountain.
For those wanting guided instruction, the ESF (Ecole du Ski Français) runs lessons from both villages, with English-speaking instructors available on request.
WeSki insider tip: Once you've found your feet on the nursery slopes, the long green run from Roche Noire down towards 1450 is a great next step. It's wide, gentle, and gives you a proper taste of a long mountain descent without any tricky surprises along the way.
Intermediates have the largest share of terrain to play with, with long, flowing blues and engaging reds spread across the mountain. The runs coming down from the Col de la Madeleine sector are particularly satisfying, with gradient changes and natural variations that keep you engaged, and the 5km longest run gives a real sense of the mountain's scale from top to bottom.
Across the mid-mountain, intermediates can build long days by linking runs across both villages, using the lift system to circle around different sectors of the resort. The tree-lined runs lower down are useful when visibility closes in higher up, and the variety in pitch and aspect across the south-west-facing mountainside means each section of the resort has its own feel.
WeSki insider tip: When you're skiing across the mountain, plan a midday stop at one of the on-mountain restaurants rather than heading back to base for lunch. Several of the slope-side spots have sunny terraces with sweeping views down the Maurienne Valley, and they make for a much more relaxed pause than rushing back to the village and out again.
Strong skiers have a real choice of terrain on the upper mountain above 2,000m, where the gradient steepens through a mix of red and black runs. Black runs from the 2,550m summit are sustained and often moguled, dropping steeply through open terrain before funnelling into the forest lower down. The north-facing aspects at the top of the area hold snow well and stay firm even when the sun-exposed lower slopes are softening, so it's worth heading up high in the afternoon if you want the best conditions on the steeper stuff.
Off-piste opportunities open up around the Col de la Madeleine and the higher bowls, with enough varied terrain to keep things interesting across a few days of exploring. The 1,150m vertical drop is substantial and the top-to-bottom descent is a satisfying long run that rewards good technique. For backcountry touring, the surrounding Lauzière massif has established routes, though avalanche awareness, proper equipment, and ideally a local guide are essential.
WeSki insider tip: The ungroomed sections off the main black runs near the summit ridge are worth exploring once you've warmed up on the pistes. Here, terrain rolls into natural gullies and small bowls that hold cold snow well, but stick close to the marked runs on your first pass through to get a feel for the lines before pushing further out.
St François Longchamp is a satisfying mountain for snowboarders, with terrain that lends itself well to riding. The wide, open upper slopes are made for carving, with space to lay over long arcs without dodging traffic, and the natural features across the mountain offer rolling banks, side hits, and small drops for creative riders to play with between pistes. After fresh snow, the open bowls above 2,000m and the sheltered tree lines lower down both hold powder well.
For freestyle riders, the resort has two terrain parks: a main park with kickers, rails, and boxes shaped for a range of abilities, and a smaller area with gentler features for those trying freestyle for the first time. Both are maintained through the season and benefit from reliable snow cover at altitude. The efficient chairlift system means most of your day is spent riding rather than waiting around on surface lifts, which is always a relief on a board.
The upper mountain above 2,000m is where the best off-piste sits, with open bowls, gullies, and north-facing aspects that hold powder well after a storm. Terrain around Col de la Madeleine and the summit ridgeline has accessible side-country, and the moderate gradient makes much of it approachable for skiers getting into off-piste for the first time. For more serious touring, the surrounding Lauzière massif has established backcountry routes, though avalanche awareness, proper equipment, and a local guide are essential.
The ESF (Ecole du Ski Français) runs from both 1450 and 1650, offering group and private lessons for all ages and abilities. English-speaking instructors are available, though it's worth requesting one specifically when booking to avoid any confusion.
Beyond standard lessons, the schools offer specialty options including snowboarding, freeride coaching, and ski touring days. The dedicated beginner zones at both villages make group lessons easy to start, with first-timers well looked after on the gentler slopes.
The resort has two terrain parks shaped to suit different ability levels. The main park has a progression of kickers, rails, and boxes for confident freestylers, while a smaller area provides gentler features for beginners trying freestyle for the first time. Both are maintained through the season and benefit from the resort's reliable snow cover up high.
St François Longchamp is a natural fit for a family ski holiday. The resort was designed with families front of mind, and that thinking runs through everything from its layout to the lift system. Most accommodation sits within easy reach of the slopes, the village shops and restaurants are a short walk away, and the resort holds the French government's Famille Plus label, awarded for meeting specific standards across childcare, dining, and activities. Beginner lifts at both villages take the pressure off those first few days of lessons, and the calm, unhurried atmosphere lets parents settle into the holiday without much logistical juggling.
Young learners have well-set-up nursery areas at both 1450 and 1650, with gentle slopes, snow gardens, and ski kindergarten programmes from age three. As confidence grows, older children and teenagers have a proper ski area to spread out into, with 70km of pistes and plenty of range for a week. Two terrain parks give freestyle-minded teenagers something to work towards, and the resort's compact layout means parents can let confident teens explore on their own.
Off the slopes, the village aquatic centre is a hit on rest days, with an indoor pool and wellness facilities that suit the whole family. Outside, there's a dedicated toboggan run, husky sled experiences, an outdoor ice rink, and snow gliss (a uniquely French group toboggan descent that's a guaranteed family highlight). Dining across both villages is warm and welcoming, with hearty Savoyard cooking like tartiflette, raclette, and fondue on most menus, in an atmosphere where the whole family feels comfortable.
There's plenty to do beyond the slopes at St François Longchamp, with snow activities right on the doorstep and a handful of cultural day-trip options in the Maurienne Valley below.
Dining around St François Longchamp leans hearty and Savoyard, with tartiflette, fondue, raclette, and grilled meats on most menus, served in warm, welcoming settings. The resort has a good mix of mountain restaurants on the slopes and village restaurants at both 1450 and 1650, plus a handful of slope-side refuges for a quick midday stop.
WeSki insider tip: Order a tartiflette, the Savoyard classic of sliced potatoes baked with Reblochon cheese, lardons, and onions, all bubbling under a golden crust. It's the ultimate post-skiing comfort food.
Après-ski at St François Longchamp has a warm, sociable feel that suits the resort's overall pace. The end of the ski day means a vin chaud on a sunny terrace, a crêpe from a slope-side stand, and a gradual wind-down rather than a high-energy party scene. There's a friendly, distinctly French character to it, with locals lingering over a pastis, families settling in for an early dinner, and the sound of clinking glasses carrying across the afternoon sun.
The evening picks up gently. A handful of bars stay open for after-dinner drinks, and some of the residence hotels host entertainment evenings throughout the week, with the overall mood relaxed and unpretentious. For those wanting a slightly busier scene, Valmorel is a livelier village within reach for an evening out.
Après-ski spots to know:
Accommodation in St François Longchamp leans towards apartment-style residences, with a mix of studios and multi-room properties spread across the two village levels. Many residences are ski-in, ski-out, and several have their own pools, kids' clubs, and leisure facilities on site. A handful of comfortable three- and four-star hotel options round out the offer, with traditional alpine styling, warm wood interiors, and wellness areas in some properties.
Both village levels work well as a base, and the choice between them comes down to preference. St François 1450 has a wider range of services and a slightly more lived-in village feel, while St François 1650 sits higher up with direct slope access and a quieter atmosphere. The lift system links the two levels and a shuttle bus runs between them throughout the day, so wherever you stay, the rest of the resort is easy to reach.
The St François Longchamp ski pass covers the resort's 70km of pistes and full lift network, with access to all sectors of the mountain across the two villages. The pass is set up for flexibility, with multi-day and family options available.
Check for multi-day pass options when booking your St François Longchamp ski holiday package through WeSki to find the best fit for your trip.
Rental shops at both 1450 and 1650 carry a full range of ski and snowboard equipment, from beginner kit through to performance and demo gear. Boot fitting and adjustments are included, and staff can offer advice on the right setup for your ability and the terrain. Booking ahead is a smart move during French school holidays when the resort is at its busiest.
WeSki partners with SkiSet shops in St François Longchamp, so you can add equipment to your package and collect it on arrival. Browse St François Longchamp ski deals to build your perfect trip.
The resort is compact and easy to get around on foot, with most accommodation, restaurants, shops, and lifts within walking distance within each village. A shuttle bus connects 1450 and 1650 throughout the day, and the lift system links the two villages as well, so you can ski between them or take the bus. Evening shuttle services keep both levels accessible for dinner, so you're not tied to one village for the evening.
For exploring beyond the resort, local taxi services connect St François Longchamp with the nearby valley towns and train stations, opening up day trips by rail into the wider Maurienne and further afield. Taxis are easy to book through your accommodation or directly with one of the local companies. A rental car is useful if you'd prefer more flexibility, particularly for exploring smaller villages off the main valley routes.
St François Longchamp is in the Maurienne Valley in the Savoie department of the French Alps, well connected by several major airports included as part of WeSki's flight options. Chambéry is the closest at around 100km, with Grenoble (around 130km), Geneva (around 180km), Lyon (around 200km), and Turin (around 150km) all within comfortable reach. For those preferring to arrive by rail, Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne in the valley below has a train station with TGV connections from Paris.
WeSki includes private transfers and car rental options as part of your booking. Add them to your St François Longchamp ski holiday package for door-to-door travel sorted before you arrive.
It's one of the best family resorts in the French Alps. The Famille Plus accreditation, free beginner lifts, compact ski-in/ski-out layout, dedicated children's areas, and affordable pricing all make it a practical, stress-free choice. The predominantly French clientele means it feels less touristy than the bigger-name resorts, which many families prefer.
St François Longchamp and Valmorel are linked on skis via the Col de la Madeleine sector. With the combined Grand Domaine pass, you can ski freely between the two resorts. The crossing is straightforward for intermediate skiers and above, and the combined area covers around 165km of pistes, providing enough terrain for a full week's skiing.
The summit at 2,550m provides reliable snow from mid-December through mid-April. The upper slopes face north and hold snow well, while snowmaking covers key runs lower down. The Maurienne Valley's position means it can catch snowfall from both northern and southern weather systems. January to March is the most consistently good period across the full ski area.
They're two halves of the same ski area (Grand Domaine). Valmorel has a more developed, pedestrianised village with more restaurants, shops, and evening options. St François Longchamp is quieter, more affordable, and more family-focused. The skiing is broadly similar in quality. Many visitors find St François Longchamp the better base for travelers on a budget, while Valmorel suits those wanting more village life.
Very much so. The wide nursery areas, beginner lifts, gentle green runs, and uncrowded slopes create excellent learning conditions. The progression to longer runs is smooth and well-designed. The resort's family orientation means the overall atmosphere is patient and welcoming to new skiers.
St François Longchamp draws a predominantly French clientele, so English is less widely spoken than at the bigger international resorts. However, ski school instructors who speak English are available on request, rental shops and hotels can accommodate English speakers, and basic communication in shops and restaurants is manageable. A few words of French go a long way and are always appreciated.
Excellent. With 37% intermediate terrain on the St François side, plus the link to Valmorel's additional runs, provides a week's worth of varied blue and red skiing. The quiet slopes mean you can focus on technique and enjoyment, and the 5km longest run gives a genuinely satisfying sustained descent. The combined Grand Domaine area has enough to keep confident intermediates engaged throughout a stay.
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