Depending on when you travel, the resort’s altitude, and the overall weather conditions of the season, it may happen that snow is not guaranteed during your winter sports holiday. Does that mean your vacation will be ruined? Not at all! In winter in the mountains, there is a wide range of outdoor and indoor activities to enjoy, even when snowfall is limited.
The ski slopes are not open, but you would still like to gain altitude and admire mountain landscapes? Whether you choose the Alps, the Jura, the Pyrenees, or another mountain range, hiking is always an option.
On foot, or even with snowshoes if you plan to reach higher peaks where snow is more abundant, there are countless things to discover. Ask the local Tourist Office about winter-accessible routes and the most beautiful places to explore.
Please note that snowshoe rental is available in most Sport 2000 stores.
By hiring the services of a mountain guide, you can also try glacier hiking in certain resorts. It’s a high-altitude adventure that promises breathtaking views!
Finally, in some resorts, a pedestrian pass allows you to use the ski lifts to enjoy panoramic viewpoints and unique experiences. Think, for example, of the Pic du Midi in the Pyrenees, the Aiguille du Midi in Haute-Savoie, the summit of La Dôle in the Jura, and more.
There’s no snow covering the resort or the slopes? Then take to the skies! Almost every resort offers aerial activities, either as an introductory experience or advanced training. And if you are already experienced, you can even enjoy these sports independently.
The most common activity is undoubtedly paragliding, ideal for enjoying the scenery in complete silence. To cover longer distances, there is also microlight flying (ULM). And for a truly unique thrill, why not book a helicopter flight?
Sometimes there isn’t enough snow for skiing, but it is still possible to enjoy electric fat bike rides. Equipped with wide tires, this very practical type of mountain bike allows you to ride on snow and rough terrain.
If the cycling trails are completely snow-free, you can also rent a more traditional mountain bike and head out on a ride. Just be sure to check snow and weather conditions before setting off on your adventure.
Looking for even more ideas to fill your mountain stay? Why not simply relax? In many well-developed tourist resorts, as well as in thermal ski resorts, there are dedicated wellness centers.
Aqualudic areas, spas, thermal baths, swimming pools, massages, outdoor yoga: there are countless ways to enjoy your vacation even without snow.
Frustrated that you can’t go alpine or cross-country skiing? That doesn’t mean all sliding sports are off the table. Sometimes snowfall is too limited to open the ski area, while other sliding activities remain possible.
Think, for example, of the ice rink, which doesn’t require snow. You can also consider sledding with children, which can be enjoyed on small snow-covered areas. And why not try a dog sled ride? Many resorts now offer this activity at higher altitudes, and mushers can take you to sufficiently snowy areas to enjoy it fully.
If France is known for its culture and culinary specialties, this is even more true in the mountains, whether in the Alps, the Jura, the Vosges, and beyond.
A lack of snow shouldn’t discourage you—on the contrary, it’s an invitation to learn more about local heritage, history, and specialties. Guided tours are often organized in ski resorts around themes such as mountain architecture, traditional crafts, village history, alpine farms, cheese-making, and more. These activities are perfect for families, friends, couples, or solo travelers.
Also take time to stroll through the local markets, sometimes quaint and intimate, sometimes lively and bustling. It’s a great opportunity to discover local specialties, meet producers, and perhaps bring home a few souvenirs from your trip.
Outdoors or indoors, ski resorts offer plenty of entertainment to keep holidaymakers busy when skiing isn’t an option.
Not all destinations offer the same range of activities, but here are a few ideas to inspire you:
As you can see, even when skiing or snowboarding isn’t possible, many activities in nature and around the village are still available. It could even be a wonderful opportunity to discover a whole new way of experiencing the mountains in winter!