This is a ski resort like no other in France – the old town dates back to the 13th century and the cobble streets around the pretty church are the perfect backdrop to a snow scene. The place oozes charm and character and is a favorite of the wealthy Paris/Geneva crowd. That said, although you wouldn’t think it, Megève developed as a purpose-built ski resort – albeit in the 1920s when local estate owner, Baron de Rothchild wanted a French resort to rival the glitzy appeal of St Moritz.
The town has developed along the main road and is split into different sectors – the center around the church square, Mont d’Arbois where the Rothchild estate is located, and Princesse area. There is a shuttle bus service linking the different areas which are free on your lift pass but otherwise, it is a walk of around 30-40 mins between sectors.
The skiing here is scenic and there are lots below the tree line. Although it is lower than many other French resorts, as it is on grass slopes, the snow coverage can be less. There are certain resorts with higher, more challenging skiing but there are few with the charm and elegance of Megève – everyone should ski here at least once!
