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Snow-sure resort
Stunning views
Hidden gem
Off-slope activitiesSnow-sure resortStunning viewsHidden gemOff-slope activitiesSnow-sure resortStunning viewsHidden gemOff-slope activitiesSnow-sure resortStunning viewsHidden gemOff-slope activitiesLes Orres is a sun-drenched resort in the Southern French Alps, perched above the Serre-Ponçon in the Hautes-Alpes. It's a spot that French families have known about for years, but international visitors are only beginning to discover. The resort is split across two bases: Les Orres 1650, the original village with traditional alpine character, and Les Orres 1800, a more modern, purpose-built station with ski-to-door convenience. Shuttles link the two, and the entire ski area sits within a beautiful larch forest that gives the mountain a distinctive character.
The ski area covers 100km of pistes between 1,550m and 2,720m, served by 17 lifts. Despite the Southern Alps sunshine, the slopes face north-west and hold snow well, with snowmaking covering around 45km of runs. Terrain is varied, steep, and more challenging than you might expect for a resort of this size: 1,170m of vertical drop, a longest run of 7.2km, and a good spread across ability levels. The long, forested descents to the base make for particularly satisfying skiing.
Les Orres has a friendly and unpretentious atmosphere. The 1650 village is traditional and compact, while the 1800 station is functional rather than picturesque, and built for convenience. But the mountain setting is beautiful, the value is strong, and those who discover the resort tend to become loyal regulars.
Check out Les Orres ski deals to start planning your trip.
Les Orres is a sun-drenched resort in the Southern French Alps, perched above the Serre-Ponçon in the Hautes-Alpes. It's a spot that French families have known about for years, but international visitors are only beginning to discover. The resort is split across two bases: Les Orres 1650, the original village with traditional alpine character, and Les Orres 1800, a more modern, purpose-built station with ski-to-door convenience. Shuttles link the two, and the entire ski area sits within a beautiful larch forest that gives the mountain a distinctive character.
The ski area covers 100km of pistes between 1,550m and 2,720m, served by 17 lifts. Despite the Southern Alps sunshine, the slopes face north-west and hold snow well, with snowmaking covering around 45km of runs. Terrain is varied, steep, and more challenging than you might expect for a resort of this size: 1,170m of vertical drop, a longest run of 7.2km, and a good spread across ability levels. The long, forested descents to the base make for particularly satisfying skiing.
Les Orres has a friendly and unpretentious atmosphere. The 1650 village is traditional and compact, while the 1800 station is functional rather than picturesque, and built for convenience. But the mountain setting is beautiful, the value is strong, and those who discover the resort tend to become loyal regulars.
Check out Les Orres ski deals to start planning your trip.
Skiing and snowboarding in Les Orres is a distinctive experience. The mountain's character is shaped by the southern alpine climate, and sunshine is a defining feature. You'll ski in clear conditions more often than not, and the panoramic views over the Serre-Ponçon lake and towards the Écrins massif are spectacular. Plus, tree-lined runs add atmosphere and shelter on the rare windy days.
Les Orres mountain is more interesting than its modest piste count suggests. Terrain varies from gentle nursery slopes to steep blacks, and the vertical drop of 1,170m means the descents have real length and variety. Above the treeline, the upper slopes have a high-alpine feel, while the forested lower runs provide a completely different skiing experience.
Beginners have a good setup in Les Orres, with a dedicated nursery area at the resort village level that's gentle and well-equipped. A magic carpet and easy lifts make the first few sessions straightforward, and the wide-open terrain gives you plenty of space to practise without feeling crowded.
Once you're ready for longer runs, several blue pistes wind through the forest that are well-groomed, not too steep, and with pleasant conditions. The progression from nursery slopes to proper mountain runs as a first-timer happens naturally here.
WeSki insider tip: Blue runs through the larch forest are some of the most enjoyable beginner terrain in the Southern Alps. They're wide and atmospheric, with the scent of pine trees and sunshine on your face.
Intermediates will find more terrain at Les Orres than the headline figures suggest. Red runs cover a wide range of difficulty, from gentle cruisers to more technical descents that can push your skiing abilities in the best way. From the summit at 2,720m, the runs back to the base are long and satisfying, combining open alpine terrain at the top with forest skiing lower down.
A variety of aspects across the mounts means you can chase the sun throughout the day. Morning runs on the east-facing slopes catch the early light, while the west-facing terrain comes alive in the afternoon. It's a rhythm that makes for an enjoyable, well-paced intermediate ski day.
WeSki insider tip: The long red run from the summit all the way back to the village is 7km of varied terrain. Take it in one continuous descent for a genuinely satisfying top-to-bottom experience.
Les Orres has challenging terrain that can be a pleasant surprise for advanced skiers. Black runs off the summit ridge are steep and sustained, with sections that demand confident technique. Terrain above the treeline has a proper high-alpine feel, and when conditions are firm, the steep runs provide excellent technical skiing.
Off-piste opportunities through the forest are rewarding after fresh snowfall, with sheltered tree skiing that holds powder well. For more extensive backcountry, the surrounding Écrins region has vast touring terrain that's accessible with a guide.
WeSki insider tip: Black runs from the summit are at their best early in the morning when the surface is firm and fast. By midday the southern sun can soften them significantly, changing the character of the descent entirely.
Les Orres has wide, well-groomed pistes that are ideal for carving, and the varied terrain and tree runs provide natural hits and features for riders who like to explore. The resort's sunny disposition makes for comfortable riding conditions, and uncrowded slopes mean you can ride without constantly dodging traffic. For those who enjoy freestyle practice, there's a terrain park with features for intermediate riders.
Off-piste in Les Orres is best through the forest, where the larch trees provide shelter and the snow holds well between storms. Terrain above the treeline has some open powder fields after fresh snowfall, though the southern exposure means timing is important. For serious backcountry exploration, the Écrins National Park nearby is one of France's finest touring regions.
Les Orres has a well-established ESF (École du Ski Français) school offering group and private lessons for all levels. English-speaking instructors are generally available, though the resort has a predominantly French clientele. Group lessons are popular and well-structured, with dedicated meeting points at the village level.
The resort has a terrain park with a selection of kickers, rails, and boxes suited to beginner and intermediate riders. It's positioned on an accessible section of the mountain and maintained throughout the season. While Les Orres isn't a park destination, it provides a solid freestyle option to mix into your day.
Les Orres is a natural choice for a family resort, and holds the French Famille Plus label to prove it. Both snow fronts at 1650 and 1800 are car-free, linked by a pedestrian path, and the layout keeps things manageable: ski schools, equipment rental, and beginner areas are all close at hand. The resort runs a packed family events calendar through the season, from creative workshops and kids' dance nights to magic shows and visits from the resort mascot L'Happy, so there's usually something happening even after the lifts close.
The Kids Club takes children from six months to 12 years, while dedicated nursery slopes give young learners a safe, contained space to find their feet. Older children will enjoy the longer runs through the larch forest, and the snowpark under the Prélongis chairlift has progressive lines that suit developing riders as well as experienced ones.
Off the slopes, there's plenty to do. The Orrian Express is a toboggan with three full 360-degree twists, and dedicated sledging areas are fenced and split by age. An indoor ice rink and Sport Innovation centre, with climbing walls, virtual reality experiences, and more, give families a solid bad-weather option. Dining leans towards hearty mountain cooking - whether it's fondue, raclette, or refined regional dishes - restaurants here keep things relaxed and family-friendly in the evenings.
Les Orres' Southern Alps setting and proximity to the Serre-Ponçon lake give it a distinctive backdrop for activities beyond skiing. Whether you want variety off the slopes, need a day of relaxation, or are traveling with non-skiers, it's easy to enjoy the resort's setting and find holiday entertainment.
Beyond the pistes, Les Orres and its surroundings provide a range of winter activities, including:
The Southern Alps location and lakeside setting provide enjoyable rest-day options at Les Orres, such as:
Dining in Les Orres is straightforward and satisfying. Restaurants focus on mountain French cooking, which is hearty, generous, and leans toward good value. You won't find gastronomy to rival Courchevel, but the food is well-prepared and served in a relaxed atmosphere. The mountain restaurants here are a particular pleasure, with sun-drenched terraces and views over the lake.
WeSki insider tip: Try tourtons, deep-fried pastry parcels filled with potato, cheese, or meat, traditional to the Hautes-Alpes. They're served as starters in many local restaurants and are addictively good.
Après-ski in Les Orres is relaxed and family-oriented with a mood that's cheerful and unhurried. The base-area bars fill up as the lifts close, with skiers (primarily French crowds) enjoying drinks on terraces, and the mountain's southern, sunny exposure means you can typically sit outside well into the afternoon.
In the evening, the village has a handful of bars and restaurant-bars that stay lively. The après atmosphere is sociable and friendly, with families and groups mixing easily. It's a place for a pleasant evening out rather than a wild night.
Après-ski spots to know:
Accommodation in Les Orres is split between two main areas: Les Orres 1650 and Les Orres 1800, both purpose-built resort villages at different altitudes. Les Orres 1800 is higher and offers more direct ski access, while Les Orres 1650 has a wider range of accommodation including the Bois Méan complex with leisure facilities. A shuttle connects the two villages throughout the day.
Options are predominantly apartments, residences, and self-catering accommodation, with some hotels. The standard is functional and comfortable, and prioritises value and practicality over luxury.
The Les Orres ski pass covers all 17 lifts and 100km of pistes in the resort. Multi-day passes represent good value. There's no major interconnected ski pass network here, Les Orres is a standalone resort, which keeps the pass pricing straightforward and competitive.
Check for family and multi-day pass options when booking your Les Orres ski holiday package through WeSki to find the best fit for your trip.
Equipment rental shops are available in both Les Orres 1650 and 1800, with a full range of ski and snowboard packages. Booking ahead is recommended for convenience, especially during French school holidays.
WeSki partners with SkiSet shops in Les Orres, letting you add equipment to your package, book in advance, and collect on arrival. Browse Les Orres ski deals to build your perfect trip.
A shuttle bus connects Les Orres 1650 and 1800 throughout the day and into the evening. Both villages are compact and walkable. The shuttle runs regularly and is reliable, so staying in either village gives you good access to slopes and facilities. A car is useful for trips to Embrun and the surrounding area, but not essential for day-to-day resort life.
The nearest airports are Lyon (around 180km), Grenoble (around 160km). Turin and Chamberly are alternative options at around 170km and 160km respectively. The drive follows motorways for much of the journey before climbing into the Hautes-Alpes, the final stretch along the Serre-Ponçon lake is beautiful. Embrun, the nearest town, is about 15 minutes away.
WeSki offers car rentals from the airport as well as private transfers to Les Orres. Add them to your Les Orres ski holiday package for seamless door-to-door travel.
Les Orres is a comfortable place to learn. The nursery slopes are gentle and sunny, the ski school is well-established, and the resort's uncrowded slopes make for a relaxed learning environment. The sunshine is a real bonus, since learning in warm, bright conditions is much more enjoyable than in cold, grey weather.
Despite its southern location, Les Orres has good snow reliability. The ski area reaches 2,720m, and the north-facing upper slopes hold their condition well. Snowmaking covers key runs, and the season typically runs from early December to mid-April. The 300+ days of sunshine a year mean you'll often ski in glorious conditions.
Yes, it's one of the more affordable resorts in the French Alps. Ski passes, accommodation, equipment hire, and dining are all competitively priced compared to bigger-name resorts. It's particularly good value for families.
The 100km ski area with 1,170m of vertical drop provides enough for a varied week, particularly for beginners and intermediates. Strong skiers may want to mix in some rest days or day trips to nearby resorts like Serre Chevalier or Vars-Risoul for additional terrain.
Les Orres is smaller than Serre Chevalier but sunnier and quieter. It's more family-oriented than Vars-Risoul and has a stronger sense of community. The Serre-Ponçon lake setting gives it a distinctive landscape you won't find in other resorts.
It's an excellent family choice. The sunshine, affordable prices, well-designed beginner areas, and family-friendly facilities make it one of the best-value family ski resorts in France. The Bois Méan pool complex and activity centre are popular with families on rest days.
Val Thorens - La Plagne - Chamonix - Tignes - Avoriaz - Val d'Isère - Méribel - Les Arcs - Les Menuires - Courchevel - Flaine - La Clusaz - Serre Chevalier - Samoëns - La Rosière - Montgenèvre - Val Cenis - Megève - St Martin de Belleville - Isola 2000 - Risoul - Valmorel - Les Gets - Morzine - Les Deux Alpes - Alpe d'Huez - Vaujany - Sainte Foy Tarentaise - Saint Gervais les bains - Châtel - Les Houches - Les Sybelles - Les Carroz - Les Contamines-Montjoie - Les Saisies
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