Serre Chevalier

It's funny that when we think of a skiing holiday in France the name Serre Chevalier may not be one of those that immediately springs to mind - but it darn well should! Serre Chevalier is close to the Italian border, made up of several villages on a valley floor well linked by buses, free if you have a lift pass.

Skiing and snowboarding is fab here no matter what your ability or aspirations. Serre Chevalier lies between 1200m and 1500m and with the use of snow cannons at lower levels, there's always something to ski on, taking advantage of nearly 80 high speed lifts.

There are no fewer than 50 novice runs close to the villages and some beautiful tree-lined trails. If you did all those you'd no longer be a novice and could move on to the plethora of blue runs and then even to black and off-piste because there's plenty of both.

For snowboarders, there's a snow park with superb terrain.

Sometimes we get sick of saying 'something for everyone,' but we have to say it again when we talk about Serre Chevalier.

Apres-Ski in Serre Chevalier

Catering best for families, the nightlife in Serre Chevalier could be described as low key. Every village has bars, cafés and restaurants - there are almost 100 spread along the valley. You must sample the local dishes of raclette and fondue, but there's plenty of food on offer to satisfy every taste.

The three main villages are Le Monêtier (Serre Che 1500), Villeneuve (1400) and Chantemerle (1350) - then, at the end of the valley, there's the town of Briançon (1200), the highest in France and a World Heritage Site. It's a delightful 17th century fortified town and well worth a visit as are the thermal baths of Monêtier-les-Bains.

Off the slopes - try ice-driving and karting, snow-shoeing or spend a day with a professional photographer learning how to take great skiing shots.

There are nine further villages each with their own distinctive character, more rustic than you may have come to expect from a French ski resort but absolutely charming.

For a wealth of experiences, choose Serre Chevalier. Family fun, ski dude delight. GetSkiing will take you there.

Gary's Little Gems in Serre Chevalier

Not well know on the UK ski scene but very popular with the French who know their skiing. This is a big ski area with something for everyone. If you like a more French atmosphere, you will like Serre Chevalier. Luc Alphand, who is one of the greatest downhill skiers of all time, lives here and learned to ski here. Prices are better value than in other more well-known French resorts.