Winter in Briançon and Serre Chevalier
Briançon is one of Europe’s great winter destinations, sitting at the gateway to the Serre Chevalier ski area and surrounded by the high peaks of the Écrins National Park. Whether you’re here to ski, explore the mountains on foot, or simply soak up the crisp alpine air, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the season from your apartment.
Alpine Skiing
Briançon sits at the southern end of the Serre Chevalier ski area, with over 250km of pistes ranging from gentle blues to challenging blacks. The resort links several villages and offers excellent skiing for all levels, with reliable snow cover from December through April. The off-piste is legendary from remote back bowls to tree skiing down to resort level. In September 2026 the Guardian Newspaper described Serre Chevalier as a “hidden gem”. With the Milky Way (Vialattea) and a further 400km of slopes accessible from Montgenèvre, just 15 mins drive away, and the mystic allure of La Grave 30 mins drive away there really is something for everyone.
Mountaineering
The Écrins National Park, on the doorstep of Briançon, offers serious winter mountaineering for experienced alpinists. Guided ascents, ice climbing, and ski touring routes take you deep into one of France’s most spectacular wilderness areas.
Featuring over 150 summits exceeding 3000 metres and dramatic glaciated terrain the park offers some of the finest alpine mountaineering in France.
Cross Country
The Serre Chevalier valley has an extensive 45km network of groomed cross-country trails (10km of dedicated skate tracks) winding through pine forests and open meadows from Saint-Chaffrey to the base of the Lautaret pass. Perfect for those who prefer a quieter, more meditative way to experience the winter landscape at their own pace. Also nearby is the Vallée de la Clarée offering 70km of groomed trails and routes centred on the villages of Névache and Val-des-Prés. The French national cross country team use this area as their high altitude training ground.
Other Activities
Winter in Briançon offers plenty beyond skiing — snowshoeing through quiet forests, ice skating in the old town, sledging with the kids, flying down the giant zipline, or testing your ice karting skills and then warming up in one of the many restaurants and bars that make après-ski a highlight of any stay.