Megève is a symbol of luxury and elegance. With nearly a century of rich history, this ski resort has long been recognized as one of the premier French ski resorts. Beyond its 445 km of pristine slopes, Megève offers high-end hotels, a glamorous shopping experience, and a thriving culinary scene, making it a top choice for those seeking the finer things in life. The resort is not just about skiing; a casino and a jazz club add to its unique character.
We've created this guide to make planning your Megève ski holiday easy. You'll discover everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best places to grab a bite, enjoy a drink, or relax with family and friends after a day on the slopes. At the end, you'll also find downloadable resort maps, along with some handy contact numbers and links.
Let's get started!
Megève is located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France, nestled within the Mont Blanc massif, close to the borders of both Switzerland and Italy.
Nearest airport
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| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Picturesque old village offering stunning scenic views | Limited challenging slopes |
| Broad ski slopes perfect for intermediates | The ski area feels disjointed |
| Convenient for short ski trips due to its proximity to Geneva | Relaxed après-ski ambiance |
| Outstanding mountain dining options | Limited chalet options |
This short video provides a glimpse of everything Megève has to offer.
Most beginner slopes are conveniently located near the village, making them easily accessible. For those taking their initial steps, free magic carpet lifts at Rochebriune, Princesse, and Jaillet offer a smooth start. For families with kids, Club Piou-Piou, a segment of the local French Ski School, provides snow gardens, fun runs, and full or part-day care.
With the ‘Evasion Mont Blanc’ lift pass granting access to nearly 445 km of easy cruising, blue, and red pistes, intermediate skiers can revel in the expansive skiing terrain.
While Megève's slopes predominantly cater to beginners and intermediates, advanced skiers will find a handful of challenges on offer. Steeper red and black pistes at Mont Joly and Cote 2000 promise a more thrilling descent, especially below the Mont Joly ski lift, which presents some of the steepest terrains in the resort.
Megève might not be renowned as an off-piste hotspot, but it holds its own secret pockets of untouched snow. After snowfall, powder enthusiasts can find fresh tracks at Mont Joly and Cote 2000. While Mont Joly presents an option to ski off the map, it's crucial to engage a professional guide for safety due to avalanche risks. Another prominent spot, Cote 2000, offers ample off-piste opportunities, but always ensure safe navigation around cordoned areas.
Megève might come across as a traditional skiing destination, but it doesn't disappoint snowboarders. With three terrain parks and several freestyle terrains scattered across the ski sectors, both beginners and advanced boarders can find suitable grounds to test and refine their skills. Although it's not a freestyle hub, the diversity and charm of Megève's parks provide a fulfilling boarding experience.
The ski season in Megève for 2024/25 is expected to start on December 14th and run until April 6th. Obviously, opening and closing dates may vary slightly depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Megève this season, be sure to explore our Megève ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Megève offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 33 cm and 35 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.9 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 26 cm but occurs more frequently, averaging 3.0 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of March, traditionally the snowiest week in Megève, with an impressive 47 cm of snow over 3.8 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days, when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 14 cm of snow over 2 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 33 cm | 2.9 days |
| January | 35 cm | 3.0 days |
| February | 26 cm | 3.0 days |
| March | 28 cm | 3.0 days |
| April | 14 cm | 2.0 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast)
Situated over at Rochebrune, L' Alpette offers diners breathtaking all-around views. The atmosphere inside is vibrant and inviting, with excellent dishes complemented by the friendly service.
This hidden gem is nestled in the woods near the La Croix chairlift. La Raviere is a quaint, rustic hut offering delectable French home-cooked cuisine. The authentic and intimate setting of this restaurant makes it a must-visit for those seeking a more traditional alpine dining experience.
Situated at the base of the Mont Joux lift, Chez Marie du Rosay is a recommended spot for those seeking delightful culinary experiences. The restaurant stands out with its offerings and location, making it an ideal stop for skiers.
Recently honored with a third Michelin star, Flocons de Sel is helmed by the talented chef Emmanuel Renault. The restaurant provides a cosy ambiance paired with impeccable service. Guests can expect an elite dining experience, with both the culinary delights and the atmosphere reflecting a top-tier establishment.
Seafood enthusiasts will find a haven at Le Cintra, which offers a fresh array of marine delicacies. While the restaurant commands a higher price point, it remains exceedingly popular among visitors, underlining its quality and reputation.
Those looking for a diverse menu without breaking the bank will appreciate Brasserie Centrale. With its extensive selection catering to varied palates, the restaurant is a hit among families. The reasonable prices combined with the delightful dishes make it a frequent choice for many.
Situated close to Brasserie Centrale, The Bistro is renowned for its delectable pizzas and refreshing salads. It offers good value for money, ensuring guests can enjoy scrumptious meals without any reservations about the cost.
For non-skiers, or simply for off-slope fun, Megève offers:
A favorite among seasonaires, the Wake Up Bar buzzes with activity and camaraderie. It's a hotspot for those familiar with the Megève scene, providing an opportunity to mingle and share experiences.
As the day transitions into night, the Cocoon bar begins to resonate with life. It’s known for its lively atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for evening revelers.
Garnering appreciation from numerous regular Megève visitors, the S Bar has cemented its place as a top recommendation. Its ambiance and offerings ensure that guests leave with a smile.
One of Megève's premier discos, White Pearl transforms into a hub of activity, especially on weekends. With its pulsating beats and vibrant crowd, it's a must-visit for those looking to dance the night away.
The Jazz Club, also referred to as the 5 Rues, stands out for its popularity. Primarily a cocktail bar, it remains open until late, catering to night owls. In addition to its inviting ambiance, the club frequently hosts big names, enhancing its appeal for music aficionados.
Download Megève resort map here
