Skiing in Vars has a distinct personality. The slopes sit across both sides of the valley, with the main east-facing bowl rising up towards the Chabrières ridge at 2,750m and linking through to Risoul at two connection points. On the opposite side, the Peynier sector brings wooded, west-facing terrain reaching 2,275m. It's a layout that gives you variety throughout the day - open alpine terrain above, sheltered tree-lined runs below.

The resort's 185km of pistes (shared with Risoul) cover 20 green, 50 blue, 39 red, and 10 black runs. You can ski between the two resorts entirely on blue pistes, which makes it easy to explore the full area regardless of level. The southern location means plenty of sunshine on the slopes, and the high base altitude helps keep conditions consistent through the season.

Skiing for beginners in Vars

Vars is a genuinely encouraging place to start skiing. The nursery slopes around Les Claux sit right at the resort base, with several free drag lifts so you can get a feel for things before committing to a lift pass. The terrain is gentle and well-separated from faster traffic, giving new skiers space to build confidence at their own pace.

Once you're ready to move on, there's a generous network of green and blue runs that lets you explore the mountain gradually. You can even ski across to Risoul on blue pistes alone - a proper milestone that feels like a real achievement within your first week. The progression here is smooth and natural, which is exactly what you want when you're finding your feet.

WeSki insider tip: The Mont Mayt area has some of the most sheltered beginner terrain - ideal on windier days when the higher slopes feel exposed.

Intermediate skiing in Vars

This is where the La Forêt Blanche area really comes into its own. The combination of long, flowing blues and varied reds means you can cover serious ground across both Vars and Risoul without repeating yourself. The Olympique red run is a highlight - dropping 920m from La Mayt all the way down to the village of Sainte Marie, it's a satisfying descent that takes you through changing terrain and gives you a real sense of the mountain's scale.

The Peynier sector is particularly good for intermediates looking to build confidence on tree-lined runs, with an easy black thrown in to test yourself. Higher up, the terrain opens out with wider pistes and bigger views from the Col de Crévoux. There's enough variety here to keep you interested for a full week.

WeSki insider tip: Head to the Risoul side in the morning when the north-facing slopes hold the best snow, then ski back to Vars in the afternoon when the sun hits the east-facing bowl.

Advanced and expert skiing in Vars

The top of the Chabrières ridge is where things get serious. From 2,750m you'll find steeper, more committing terrain, including the Coni - widely regarded as the resort's most demanding run. The Eyssina and Chabrières ridgelines also give access to around a hundred off-piste couloirs within easy reach of the lifts, offering proper freeride options without the need for long hikes.

For those who like their skiing fast and technical, the KL speed skiing piste is open to the public on select days - a chance to test yourself on the same slope where world records are set. It's not for the faint-hearted, but it's a memorable experience. The off-piste stays relatively uncrowded outside peak weeks, and a guide can help you find the best powder stashes through the larch forests lower down.

WeSki insider tip: The off-piste from the top of Chabrières through the trees back to the resort is exceptional after fresh snowfall - 30 to 45 minutes of varied, untracked terrain.

Snowboarding in Vars

Vars has established itself as a proper freestyle destination. The resort has four distinct snow parks, including the main Varspark, the creative Totem Park (with Wild West-themed obstacles and carved totem poles), the accessible Kid Park for younger riders, and the 8-hectare Park de l'Eyssina at 2,400m. There's also a boardercross course for head-to-head racing. The broad, sweeping pistes carve well, and the mix of open bowls above the treeline and sheltered forest runs lower down gives riders excellent variety. A handful of drag lifts remain in certain sectors, but overall the lift system handles boarders well.

Off-piste skiing

The Eyssina and Chabrières ridges offer the best off-piste access, with around a hundred couloirs reachable within an hour of the lifts. The larch forests provide sheltered tree skiing on stormy days, and the relatively low visitor numbers mean tracks get filled in less quickly than at busier resorts. A local guide is recommended for the best routes - the terrain varies significantly depending on snow conditions and aspect.

Vars ski school and lessons

Several ski schools operate in Vars, including ESF Vars, ESI Vars, and Pure Snowschool. Group and private lessons are available for all ages and abilities, with children's lessons typically starting from age four. English-speaking instructors are available, though booking in advance is recommended during peak weeks.

Vars terrain parks

Vars is home to four snow parks spread across the ski area. The Varspark near Crévoux features jumps, rails, and boxes across multiple difficulty zones. The Totem Park at the top of the Sibières chairlift has Wild West-inspired obstacles and is a popular spot for photos. The Kid Park introduces younger riders to freestyle, while the Park de l'Eyssina at 2,400m covers eight hectares with features for all levels. A boardercross course rounds out the freestyle offering.

1. Vars Family ski holiday
2. Things to do in Vars
3. Planning your trip in Vars
4. How to get to Vars
5. Vars FAQs

Vars family ski holiday

Vars works well for families, partly because of the terrain and partly because of the pace. The gentle beginner slopes sit right at the base of Les Claux, so parents can watch younger children from nearby. The ESF runs a well-regarded children's programme with lessons from age four, and there are dedicated snow gardens for the very youngest. The resort's layout means you're never far from a café or a meeting point, which makes the logistics of a family ski day much simpler.

Older children and teenagers have plenty to get stuck into. The four snow parks cater to different ability levels, so teens can progress from the Kid Park to more challenging features at their own pace. The Caribou mountain coaster is a hit with all ages, and the speed skiing experience on the Chabrières piste (open to skiers aged six and above with parallel skiing ability) is the kind of story they'll be telling friends about for months. Night skiing during French school holidays adds an extra dimension too.

For parents, the resort's compact size means evenings are straightforward. Restaurants in Les Claux cater to families without fuss, and the selection of activities beyond skiing - ice skating, snowshoeing, tobogganing - gives the whole family options for rest days or mixed-ability afternoons. The overall atmosphere is easygoing and welcoming, without the intensity of some larger French resorts.

Things to do in Vars

With its sunny position, forest-lined valleys, and range of activities beyond the pistes, Vars makes rest days feel like part of the holiday rather than time lost. Non-skiers and those looking for a change of pace will find plenty to fill a day, from scenic walks through the larch forests to adrenaline-fuelled coaster rides.

Snow activities

Vars makes the most of its mountain setting with a strong selection of on-snow experiences beyond the pistes:

• Snowshoeing: Over 34km of marked trails through larch forests and mountain terrain, guided or self-guided.
• Dog sledding: Guided mushing excursions through quiet mountain valleys - a family favourite.
• Caribou mountain coaster: A year-round rail toboggan that winds through the forest at speed.
• Snowmobiling: Evening and daytime rides across snowy trails, including night excursions.
• Cross-country skiing: Around 7km of groomed Nordic trails for a quieter pace on the snow.
• Speed skiing experience: Try the famous Chabrières piste yourself with coaching from former record holders.
• Fat biking: Explore snow-covered trails on specially adapted bikes - a fun alternative to skiing.
• Tobogganing: Dedicated sledging runs for families and groups, including a rail luge.
• Ice climbing: Guided climbs on frozen waterfalls near the resort for the adventurous.

Non-snow activities

When you want to step away from the snow, Vars has a solid range of indoor and off-slope options to keep everyone entertained:

• Ice skating: Outdoor rink in the resort for relaxed skating sessions with mountain views.
• Spa and wellness: Several hotels and residences offer spa facilities, saunas, and treatment rooms.
• Cinema: A local cinema in Les Claux for an evening out when the weather closes in.
• Squash: Indoor courts available for a change of pace from the slopes.
• Scenic gondola rides: Non-skiers can ride the lifts for panoramic mountain views and mountain restaurant lunches.
• Paragliding: Tandem flights above the valley with views across the Southern Alps.
• Mont-Dauphin day trip: The nearby Vauban fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is worth a visit, around 15km away.
• Guillestre: A charming market town just 18km down the valley, good for browsing and a change of scenery.
• Briancon day trip: Europe's highest city, with a fortified old town and plenty of shops and cafés.

Vars restaurants

Dining in Vars leans towards hearty mountain cooking with a Southern Alpine twist. The resort's restaurants are spread between the slopes and the village, with Les Claux offering the widest selection. Prices are generally more reasonable than the big-name French resorts, and the quality of local produce - particularly the cheeses and charcuterie - is consistently good.

• Le 16 \| 150: Bistronomic restaurant in a stylish 1960s-inspired hotel, with a creative mountain menu.
• Les Escondus: Slope-side dining with a sunny terrace and reliable regional cooking.
• Le Chal'Heureux: High-altitude hotel-restaurant with traditional dishes and a peaceful forest setting.
• Le Refuge Napoléon: Classic French mountain cuisine with views, set along the Route des Grandes Alpes.
• L'Après Ski: Larch wood chalet with a fireplace and south-facing terrace - warm and welcoming.
• Le Point Show: Lively spot in Les Claux popular for slope-side lunches and evening meals.
• Le Chaudron: Traditional restaurant in Sainte Marie, known for generous Savoyard dishes.
• La Marmotte: A friendly spot for crêpes and light bites at the end of the ski day.
• Refuge de Basse Rua: Mountain hut dining in the Val d'Escreins - a special experience in a wild setting.

WeSki insider tip: Try tourtons - small fried pastries stuffed with potato, cheese, or meat, traditional to the Hautes-Alpes. They're the perfect slope-side snack with a vin chaud.

Vars après-ski

Vars's après-ski scene is friendly rather than frantic. When the lifts close, a handful of slope-side bars come alive with skiers unwinding over drinks in the afternoon sun. It's the kind of place where you'll settle in for a beer and a crêpe rather than dancing on tables - relaxed, social, and unpretentious. The main action centres on Les Claux, where a cluster of bars and restaurants keep things going into the evening.

Later on, the pace picks up a little. There's a nightclub for those who want to stay out, plus a selection of bars with live music and DJ sets during peak weeks. It's not Ischgl, but that's part of the appeal - you can have a good night out without feeling like you need a recovery day afterwards. The atmosphere suits couples, groups, and families equally well.

Après-ski spots to know:

• L'Après Ski: The go-to spot when the lifts close - lively atmosphere in a traditional chalet setting.
• La Zizane (Le Point Show): Upbeat slope-side bar with music and a buzzing terrace.
• La Marmotte: Friendly crêperie-bar that bridges the gap between afternoon and evening.
• Le Kha Bar: Popular late-evening choice with cocktails and a relaxed crowd.
• Le Pub de Vars: Drinks and music in a classic pub atmosphere - reliable for a good night.
• Le Spot Bar: Vibrant bar in the village centre with a wide selection of drinks.
• Piano Bar: More laid-back option for a quieter drink and some conversation.

Planning your trip to Vars

Vars accommodation

Accommodation in Vars is a practical mix of hotels, apartment residences, and some chalets, spread across the four hamlets. Les Claux is the main hub - purpose-built and closest to the lifts, shops, and nightlife. It's not the most picturesque village in the Alps (think 1970s-era apartment blocks rather than traditional chalets), but recent investment has improved the feel, and many properties sit close enough to the slopes for ski-in, ski-out access.

Sainte Marie, at the bottom of the Olympique piste, has a quieter, more traditional atmosphere with farms and older chalets. Sainte Catherine and Saint Marcellin are smaller still. The distances between hamlets are manageable - a free shuttle bus connects the main areas to the lifts throughout the day. Hotels range from comfortable three-star options to boutique properties like the 16 \| 150, which has brought a more contemporary feel to the resort. Self-catering apartments are the most common choice and represent good value.

Vars ski pass

The La Forêt Blanche lift pass covers the full linked ski area of Vars and Risoul, giving you access to 185km of pistes and all 55 lifts. Multi-day passes are available in various durations. The pass also includes access to the snow parks and the cross-country skiing trails. Check for family and multi-day pass options when booking your Vars ski holiday package through WeSki to find the best fit for your trip.

Equipment hire

There are several equipment hire shops in Les Claux and across the resort, offering a full range of ski, snowboard, and accessory rentals. Booking in advance is recommended during peak weeks, and many shops offer discounts for pre-booked equipment. You'll find options for all budgets, from basic packages to performance gear. WeSki partners with SkiSet shops in Vars, letting you add equipment to your package and collect on arrival. Browse Vars ski deals to build your perfect trip.

Getting around Vars

Vars is fairly compact, and most of what you need in Les Claux is within walking distance. The main centre stretches along a steep, winding road with shops, restaurants, and bars along the way. A free shuttle bus runs regular circuits connecting the four hamlets and the main lift stations throughout the day, which is particularly useful if you're staying further from the slopes.

In the evenings, the shuttle service winds down, so taxis or a short walk are your best options for getting back to accommodation after dinner. Free outdoor car parks are available throughout the resort for those who've driven. If you're staying in Sainte Marie or one of the quieter hamlets, the shuttle is reliable during ski hours but worth checking schedules for later in the day.

How to get to Vars

Vars is accessible from several airports in France and Italy. The nearest major airports are Turin (approximately 170km), Nice (around 190km by road), and Marseille (roughly 240km). Grenoble and Lyon are also options, though the drive is longer. The nearest train station is Mont-Dauphin-Guillestre, around 18km from the resort, with bus connections up to Vars.

WeSki offers car rentals from the airport - add one to your Vars ski holiday package for flexibility on the ground.

Vars FAQs

Is Vars good for beginners?

Vars is an excellent choice for beginners. The nursery slopes at the base of Les Claux include free drag lifts, so you can try skiing before buying a pass. From there, the progression through green and blue runs is smooth and natural - you can even ski across to Risoul on blue pistes alone. The ESF and ESI both run well-structured beginner programmes, and the slopes are generally quieter than the bigger-name French resorts, giving new skiers plenty of space.

How does Vars compare to Risoul?

Vars and Risoul share the La Forêt Blanche ski area, so the skiing is essentially the same. The difference is in the villages. Vars is slightly larger and more lively, with more restaurant and bar options in Les Claux. Risoul is more compact and largely car-free, with a slightly quieter atmosphere. Many visitors ski both resorts during their stay. Vars tends to have more sun on its east-facing main slopes in the morning, while Risoul's north-facing terrain holds snow longer.

Is the snow reliable in Vars?

With a base at 1,850m and skiing up to 2,750m, Vars benefits from a high altitude that keeps conditions consistent through the season, which typically runs from mid-December to mid-April. The resort also enjoys a particularly sunny, dry climate thanks to its Southern Alps location. Extensive snowmaking covers around 35% of the ski area, providing backup when natural snowfall is lighter. The southern position means more sunshine than resorts further north, but the altitude compensates well for snow quality.

Is Vars suitable for families?

Vars is well set up for families. The beginner slopes are right at the resort base, ski schools take children from age four, and dedicated areas like the Kid Park and snow gardens keep younger children entertained. The Caribou mountain coaster, tobogganing, ice skating, and night skiing during school holidays give families plenty of variety. The resort's relaxed atmosphere and manageable size make it easy to navigate with children, and the generally lower prices help keep costs in check.

What is the après-ski like in Vars?

Vars has a friendly, laid-back après-ski scene rather than a party atmosphere. A handful of slope-side bars get lively when the lifts close, and the evening offers a mix of restaurant dining, bar-hopping, and one nightclub. It's well suited to groups and couples who want a social evening without the intensity of resorts like Val Thorens or Ischgl. The overall vibe is relaxed, warm, and very French.

What makes Vars unique?

Vars is the world capital of speed skiing. The Chabrières piste holds the world record at over 255km/h, and during the season the public can try the experience with coaching from former record holders. Beyond that, the resort stands out for its exceptional sunshine record (around 300 days per year), its four distinct snow parks, and the authentic feel of its mountain hamlets. It's a resort that feels lived-in and genuine, without the polish or prices of the bigger Alpine names.

How long does it take to get to Vars from the UK?

Flying to Turin or Marseille and driving takes around two and a half to three hours from the airport. Nice is also an option at roughly three and a half hours by road. Alternatively, you can take the Eurostar to Paris, then a TGV south, and connect via bus from Mont-Dauphin-Guillestre station (around 18km from the resort). Driving from Calais takes approximately 10 to 11 hours.