For skiers and boarders eager to get back on the slopes, the question of which resorts open first is always a hot topic. Thanks to glaciers and high-altitude terrain, France is home to some of Europe’s most snow-sure ski destinations. Here’s a guide to the confirmed and expected opening dates for the 2025/26 season.
Tignes
Tignes is famous for being one of the first ski resorts in France to welcome skiers each winter. For the 2025/26 season, the lifts are scheduled to open on 22 November 2025, with access to the Grande Motte glacier. Just a week later, on 29 November 2025, the full Tignes–Val d’Isère linked ski area comes to life.
Val d’Isère
Neighbouring Val d’Isère joins the action with its traditional First Tracks opening weekend on 29–30 November 2025. The resort combines early snow reliability with one of the most famous ski areas in the world, making it a prime choice for an early season trip.
Les Deux Alpes
Another early-bird resort, Les Deux Alpes, is set to open its winter lifts on 29 November 2025. Its glacier provides reliable snow and gives skiers a great chance to get the legs warmed up before the Christmas rush.
Val Thorens
Europe’s highest major ski resort, Val Thorens, is also aiming for an early start. Its official opening is scheduled for 22 November 2025, putting it alongside Tignes as one of the very first non-glacier resorts to offer full ski terrain.
Morzine
Morzine, sitting lower in the vast Portes du Soleil ski area, naturally has to wait a little longer. The official opening date for continuous operation is 20 December 2025, although a pre-opening period is planned from 13–19 December, depending on snow conditions.
Chamonix
The legendary Chamonix valley usually offers a staggered start, with higher-altitude ski areas opening first. For 2025/26, the resort is expected to begin lift operations around 13 December 2025, with full access typically available by the Christmas holidays.