5 good reasons to come and ski on the Côte d'Azur

There are very few places where you can ski down snow-covered slopes with a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean. And yet, skiing on the Côte d’Azur offers a striking contrast between sea and mountains, with ski resorts nestled in authentic villages. Whether you’re a family, a couple or a group of friends, the Côte d’Azur experience can also be enjoyed from the summit, with activities to suit every taste.

Côte d’Azur ski resorts opening dates this winter

The first good reason to come and ski on the Côte d’Azur is to know the opening dates of the ski resorts. In fact, numerous snowflakes have blanketed the high peaks of the Alpes-Maritimes, coinciding perfectly with the opening dates of the ski resorts.

TheAuron and La Colmiane resorts will open on December 7, 2024. Turini Camp d’Argent is scheduled to open on December 14, 2024, snow conditions permitting.

Castérino will welcome cross-country skiers from the winter vacations on December 21, 2024, and will remain open to all, with equipment rental the only cost for visitors. The Saint-Dalmas-le-Selvage Nordic hiking site will also open on December 21, 2024, subject to sufficient snow cover.

Opening dates for the other resorts will be announced shortly.

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To the major ski areas for winter sports enthusiasts

Just an hour and a half’s drive from Nice, the major ski areas of Auron, Isola 2000 and Valberg are the favorite playgrounds of ski and snowboard enthusiasts. With 135 kilometers of slopes, Auron is the largest ski area in the Alpes-Maritimes. The resort has been awarded the “Famille Plus” and “Flocon Vert ” labels, and attracts visitors with its friendly village square and guaranteed après-ski atmosphere throughout the season. Take the Pinatelle gondola up to the charming village of Saint-Etienne-de-Tinée.
A land of talent, Isola 2000 is the highest resort in the département, the most festive and a resort for thrill-seekers! In fact, it offers a territory of exceptional assets for snow sports enthusiasts and has established itself as the freestyle resort par excellence, with numerous facilities for snowboarders.
As for Valberg, it has been awarded the ” Famille Plus ” and ” Flocon Vert ” labels for its commitment to sustainable development. Situated between the Mercantour National Park and the Gorges de Daluis Nature Reserve, Valberg is also one of the towns to have been awarded the ” Réserve Internationale de Ciel Etoilé Alpes Azur Mercantour” label, which aims to reduce light pollution and guarantee exceptional night-sky quality.

From beginners to experienced skiers, there’s something for everyone on the slopes of these great Côte d’Azur resorts.
From cross-country skiing to snowshoeing, tobogganing, snowmobiling and dog sledding, these resorts also offer unique experiences for all members of the family.

In search of escape and authenticity in village resorts

Far from the hustle and bustle of the big Alpine resorts, the ski resorts of La Colmiane Valdeblore, Roubion-Les Buisses, Gréolières-Les-Neiges, Turini Camp d’Argent, Val Pelens and L’Audibergue-La Moulière captivate nature lovers with their picturesque character and friendly atmosphere.

In addition to downhill skiing, these resorts also offer a vast area dedicated to ski touring and snowshoe itineraries to discover the local flora and fauna.

Looking for new sensations? Try skijoëring at La Colmiane Valdeblore, horse-drawn skiing that lets you glide along snow-covered roads in the heart of the magnificent Valdeblore forest. A magical moment to share with the whole family.

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Head for the great outdoors for a breath of fresh air

Gréolières-les-Neiges, Beuil-Les Launes, Castérino, Saint-Dalmas-le-Selvage, Estenc-Entraunes, Peïra Cava and Plaine de Caille are real gems nestled in the mountains of the Côte d’Azur.

Their soothing atmosphere and rural charm invite you to enjoy an immersive getaway in unspoilt natural surroundings.

These sites offer a captivating blend of fabulous landscapes as far as the eye can see and bewitching tranquillity, lulled by the scent of snow-covered larches.

To ski or hike in these resorts is to plunge into a world where serenity meets adventure, offering a Nordic escape where a certain wisdom reigns.

An exceptional climate in summer and winter

With over 300 days of sunshine a year, skiing on the Côte d’Azur is often synonymous with days on the slopes! On a clear day, skiers can look out over the Mediterranean Sea from Valberg, Isola 2000, Col de Turini, Roubion-Les Buisses, Gréolières-Les-Neiges or L’Audibergue.

As well as skiing, the Côte d’Azur also boasts an unrivalled wealth of culture and gastronomy. After a day on the slopes, skiers can indulge in typical local cuisine, explore local markets or soak up the intimate atmosphere of the villages to discover the history of this emblematic region.

Skiing on the Côte d’Azur offers a timeless interlude, allowing you to fully experience the mountains during your stay.

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