Driving to France for a Skiing Holiday: A Guide to Chamonix and Val d’Isère

Short-haul flights are awful for the environment, with the take-off phase having the largest carbon impact. Concerns about climate change are real and must be addressed, so we should all aim to reduce or eliminate our short-haul flights.

However, for those who love skiing, the options in the UK are limited. The good news is that driving to France for a skiing holiday offers a greener, more flexible, and often more enjoyable alternative.

By choosing to drive, you not only reduce your carbon footprint but also enjoy the luxury of travelling at your own pace, discovering scenic routes, and experiencing the convenience of bringing all your gear in the comfort of your own vehicle. From Calais, some of France’s finest ski resorts are within easy reach, including the world-famous Chamonix and Val d’Isère.

Why Drive to France Instead of Flying?

Environmental Benefits: Flying short distances produces a significant amount of CO₂ emissions, with much of it concentrated during take-off. Driving, on the other hand, produces less per mile, especially when you’re driving with a full car of passengers.
Flexibility: Driving gives you the freedom to stop along the way, whether for a quick coffee break or to spend a night exploring another town. You’re not tied to a strict flight schedule.
Comfort: There are no baggage fees or limits, you don’t have to lug ski gear through airports, and you can enjoy the comfort of your own space.
Cost-effective: If you already own a car, the cost of driving is often cheaper than booking flights for several people, especially when factoring in the potential additional cost of renting a car upon arrival.

Preparing for the Drive

Driving from Calais to ski resorts like Chamonix or Val d’Isère does take planning, but the journey is straightforward. Before setting off, ensure your car is in good condition, particularly the tyres and brakes, as you will be driving through mountainous terrain. It’s also worth investing in snow chains or snow tyres if you’re heading up to the Alps in winter, as they may be required by law, depending on conditions.

Documents You’ll Need:

Passport and Driving License: Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. Your UK driving licence is valid in France.
Vehicle Documents: Bring along your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and a UK car sticker (“GB” is no longer recognised).
European Breakdown Cover: It’s always smart to have comprehensive European breakdown coverage in case you encounter any issues while on the road.

Woman in car with snow and mountains in the background.

The Journey: Calais to Chamonix

Chamonix is one of the closest major ski resorts to Calais and a favourite among skiers due to its stunning scenery and proximity to Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe.

Driving Time and Distance

Distance: Approximately 880 km (550 miles).
Driving Time: Between 8.5 to 10 hours, depending on traffic, weather, and the number of stops.

The route is mainly on major French motorways, which are fast and well-maintained, though there are tolls to pay along the way. Expect to spend around €70–€90 in tolls one way. Fuel costs will vary based on your vehicle’s efficiency, but with a typical car, you can expect to spend around €100–€150 on fuel for the journey.

Suggested Route

From Calais, take the A26 motorway south toward Reims, then join the A5 near Troyes.
From there, head toward Dijon on the A6 and follow the signs for Lyon.
After bypassing Lyon, take the A40 (Autoroute Blanche) heading east, following signs for Chamonix and Mont Blanc.

The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as you approach the Alps, with spectacular mountain views greeting you as you drive closer to Chamonix.

Where to Stop

Driving for over 8 hours can be exhausting, especially if you’re the only driver. A convenient option is to break the journey into two days, stopping overnight in a charming French town such as:

Dijon: A beautiful historic city known for its architecture and food, offering plenty of accommodation options.
Lyon: For those willing to drive a bit further, Lyon is an excellent overnight stop with a rich history and great dining.

Skiing in Chamonix

Once in Chamonix, you’ll find some of the best skiing in Europe. The Chamonix Mont Blanc area offers a variety of slopes for all levels, from gentle beginner slopes to some of the most challenging off-piste terrain in the world. Whether you’re an experienced skier or a novice, Chamonix has something for everyone.

Pro Tip: If you have time, take the Aiguille du Midi cable car to enjoy breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks.

The Journey: Calais to Val d’Isère

For those seeking a more luxurious skiing experience, Val d’Isère is an ideal destination. Known for its world-class slopes and vibrant après-ski scene, Val d’Isère is part of the Espace Killy, which connects to nearby Tignes, offering over 300 km of pistes.

Driving Time and Distance

Distance: Approximately 1,000 km (620 miles).
Driving Time: Between 9.5 to 11 hours.

The journey to Val d’Isère follows much of the same route as to Chamonix:

From Calais, follow the A26 to Reims, then merge onto the A6 toward Lyon.
After Lyon, head toward Chambéry via the A43 and follow the signs for Albertville.
From Albertville, take the N90 toward Bourg-Saint-Maurice, then follow the mountain roads up to Val d’Isère.

Where to Stop

As with the journey to Chamonix, an overnight stop is recommended for a more leisurely trip. Dijon or Lyon remain great options, but if you’re looking to stop closer to Val d’Isère, consider staying in Chambéry or Albertville. Both are closer to the resort and offer charming alpine vibes.

Skiing in Val d’Isère

Val d’Isère offers some of the best skiing in the world. Its high-altitude slopes ensure reliable snow throughout the season. The resort is famous for its challenging runs, but there are also plenty of gentler slopes for beginners and intermediates.

Off the slopes, Val d’Isère is known for its vibrant après-ski scene, with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and clubs to enjoy after a day on the mountain.

Winter Driving Tips

When driving to these ski resorts, there are a few winter-specific considerations:

Snow tyres and Chains: Snow chains or tyres are often mandatory in winter, especially in mountainous areas like Chamonix and Val d’Isère. Make sure you’re prepared with the right equipment.
Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast, as heavy snow can affect road conditions. Try to time your journey for clear weather.

Woman driving Audi on her skiing holiday to France.

Ready to Hit the Slopes?

Driving to France for a skiing holiday offers an eco-friendly and flexible way to enjoy the Alps. You can explore the scenic French countryside along the way, whether you’re headed for the rugged, adventurous slopes of Chamonix or the high-altitude luxury of Val d’Isère. The journey is part of the adventure.

Before you set off, don’t forget to search for prices and offers on ferries and Le Shuttle services so you can get the best deal for your trip. Happy skiing!