Not far from the city of Lyon, there are several ski resorts ideal for a day on the slopes, a weekend, or a longer stay. Located in the Rhône department, bordering Isère and close to Savoie and Haute-Savoie, Lyon offers a wide range of destinations for skiing in the Alps, but not only!
Which ones are the closest? What are the characteristics of each resort? It’s not always easy to choose the right ski resort. That’s why we’ve compiled a selection of resorts near Lyon by car or train (plus shuttle) to help you find your next winter holiday destination.
Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse: the closest ski resort to Lyon
Located in Isère, Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse, the closest ski resort to Lyon (1h30), has several key advantages. First, a small private ski area very close to Lyon, enjoyable, wooded, and offering unique views of the surrounding peaks. Second, La Chartreuse is also a regional natural park, making it ideal for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Finally, the Oréade Balnéo offers Nordic baths, allowing visitors to admire the panorama from warm water.
If you only have a day for skiing, you can easily leave early in the morning and return in the evening. However, depending on snow conditions, the lifts may close relatively early in the season, so check in advance.
Alpe d’Huez: the sun-drenched Isère resort
A ski resort near Lyon (2h30 by car), Alpe d’Huez offers a high-quality ski area: 250 km of slopes suitable for all levels. Its exceptional sunshine contributes to its popularity.
For learning or improving skills, there are options for everyone: group or private lessons with experienced instructors. The resort also has 3 snowparks (beginner, advanced, expert) and handiski is available. Family-friendly, there are plenty of accommodations including hotels, furnished rentals, and bed & breakfasts.
La Clusaz: a mix of sports and fun
With over 80 slopes, La Clusaz, a ski resort near Lyon (2h13), satisfies all levels of skiers. It also stands out for its blend of old and modern chalets and its charming church steeple. Local gastronomy is important, with the regional Reblochon cheese highlighted. Finally, the beautiful panoramas and variety of après-ski activities make it a favorite among Lyon residents.
Brides-les-Bains: skiing and relaxation
Brides-les-Bains is advantageously located at the foot of the 3 Valleys ski area, the largest in the world. This small village is perfect for unwinding while avoiding the crowds found in larger resorts. From the village, you can take a gondola to Méribel, and possibly explore Menuires, Val Thorens, or Courchevel.
Located 2h10 from Lyon, Brides-les-Bains also features thermal baths specialized in weight-loss and rheumatology treatments.
Chamrousse: Nordic plateau and alpine skiing
Not very high (1,750 m), Chamrousse is still very popular. With a respectable vertical drop (850 m) and a heavily wooded ski area covering 1,300 hectares, this destination attracts families. Close to Lyon (less than 2 hours by car) and equipped with snowmakers, it guarantees snow throughout the season, including for night skiing and cross-country skiing.
Le Grand-Bornand: the Aravis massif domain
With 84 km of slopes suitable for beginners, intermediates, and experts, Le Grand-Bornand, a ski resort near Lyon (2h07), is perfect for families and popular among Lyon residents. It’s ideal for skiing until dusk while enjoying breathtaking views of the mountain range.
Snowshoe enthusiasts will also be delighted. Natural sites for year-round hiking attract many visitors, such as Lake Lessy, the Aravis range, or Bouchet valley.
This charming village of stone houses and wooden chalets features an ice rink, multiple accommodations, bars, and restaurants.
Alpe du Grand Serre: friendly and preserved
Medium-sized, this ski resort near Lyon (1h54) is suitable for all levels and ages: alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, freeride, snowshoeing, sledding, walking, dog sledding. Alpe du Grand Serre is ideal for families. Its natural setting is stunning: the Grand Serre peak is overlooked by the Oisans, Écrins, and Taillefer mountains.
La Plagne: a hub of snow activities
Comprising 11 villages ranging from 700 to 2,100 meters altitude, La Plagne offers something for everyone. Activities abound for adults and children: dog sledding, bobsleigh, fatbike, motorsports, ice skating, etc.
Alpine skiing and other snow activities are for all levels, within the vast and diverse Paradiski area. This is a top-choice resort for a ski holiday, just over 2 hours’ drive from Lyon.
Jura and Massif Central ski resorts
Prefer the Jura mountains over the Alps? In 2 to 2.5 hours, you can reach villages like Métabief, Les Rousses, Lélex, etc. In addition to alpine skiing, you can practice Nordic skiing, ski touring, snowshoeing, and discover local specialties.
Don’t forget the Massif Central resorts, perfect for a family stay: Super Besse, Mont-Dore, and Chalmazel, just 1h30 by car.
With its ideal location, Lyon has many other nearby resorts. Towards Grenoble, you’ll find 7-Laux, Villard de Lans, Vaujany, Val-Cenis, etc. Want to drive a bit further? Other Alpine resorts are reachable in 3–4 hours (Tignes, Val d’Isère, Briançon, etc.): the choice is vast!