Condé Nast Traveller readers have spoken. In the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards unveiled this fall, the Savoyard resort crushed the competition with a score of 99.17%, surpassing the most renowned alpine destinations on the continent. This victory confirms France’s dominance over Europe’s premier ski slopes.
The podium features three legendary resorts: Val d’Isère at the top, closely followed by Switzerland and Austria with Gstaad and Kitzbühel tied at 98.89%. This ranking places four French resorts in the global top 10. Les Trois Vallées takes fourth place, Châtel fifth, while Avoriaz rounds out this French sweep in eighth position. France establishes itself as the preferred destination for discerning skiers, ahead of traditionally celebrated Swiss and Austrian resorts.
A Ski Area That Defies the Seasons
The secret behind this recognition lies first in exceptional natural conditions. Rising to 11,339 feet (3,456 meters) with its glaciers, the Espace Killy domain guarantees reliable snow coverage for six months. For the 2025-2026 season, slopes will open November 29 and remain skiable until May 3. This longevity allows skiers to enjoy runs well beyond typical periods, when other resorts have already closed their facilities.
Infrastructure matches the same high standards. The resort recently inaugurated a new arrival station at the Vallon gondola, transformed into an immersive experience centered around the legend of Mont Iseran. The Fornet cable car now features a relaxation area with panoramic views of Pointe de la Galise, while “Ski Tranquille” signage extends to the Bellevarde sector to help beginners navigate. The 186 miles (300 kilometers) of connected slopes with Tignes offer legendary descents like the Face de Bellevarde, a technical World Cup run with an average 32% gradient.
A Tourist Experience in Full Transformation
On the dining front, three new venues mark winter 2025-2026. IMA brings Middle Eastern fusion cuisine crafted by chef Elie Fishmann, formerly of Four Seasons and Ducasse establishments, in a setting where tables transform into a dance floor as the evening progresses. Bottleneck opens at K2 Chogori with ember-grilled cuisine orchestrated by Valentin Biseul and signature fondues by Bernard Mure-Ravaud, France’s Best Craftsman in cheese. La Folie Douce reinvents its central space with La Petite Cuisine – Gare Centrale, a 7,000-square-foot hub combining dining, bar, shows, and creative workshops for kids.
The season promises intensity with the Critérium de la Première Neige on December 13-14, followed by the Classicaval festival in January and March, before the Adventure Film Festival in April.
Hello! I’m Ben Fischer, a travel enthusiast who has journeyed far and wide to bring you unique and inspiring stories. Each destination is a new adventure for me, a chance to explore diverse cultures and share unforgettable experiences.
In my articles, I take you beyond mere descriptions of places. I share the encounters, special moments, and anecdotes that make each trip unique. My writing is an invitation to see the world through my eyes, blending practical tips with personal insights.
As a lifelong traveler, I approach each journey with respect and curiosity, eager to uncover the stories hidden in every corner of the globe.
