Forêt Blanche

The skiing

Forêt Blanche is a modest, intermediate-friendly network straddling the France-Italy border in the southern Alps. The shared pass connects Risoul and Vars across roughly 1,100 metres of vertical and around 52 square kilometres of skiable terrain. This is not a sprawling mega-resort; it's a place where you'll see the same runs multiple times over a season, which means you'll actually get to know the mountain instead of chasing novelty. The terrain suits solid intermediates and advancing skiers who want to build technique without constantly hunting for steeper lines. If you're already an expert looking for four months of varied challenges, you'll likely find yourself repeating terrain and craving bigger vertical. The skiing here is honest cruising country, think long, flowing pistes and reliable snow at altitude rather than dramatic descents or famous freeride zones.

The towns

sits at the higher end of the network and leans beginner-friendly (7.5/10), making it the natural choice if you're still building fundamentals or prefer a gentler learning curve. The village itself is quiet; nightlife rates just 3.5/10, which suits people who want early nights and low costs (rent around EUR 650/month). , by contrast, has slightly better nightlife (4.5/10) and marginally higher wages (EUR 1,350 versus EUR 1,250), but it's less forgiving for beginners and offers less dramatic terrain overall. Both towns charge similar rent and beer prices, so the real trade-off is vibe and skiing style rather than wallet impact.

Which town should you pick

If you're building your skills or happy cruising intermediate terrain, base yourself in ; it's the most beginner-friendly option and the quieter village suits a focused season. If you want slightly better earning potential and a touch more social energy, edges ahead, though you'll sacrifice some beginner-friendliness and face terrain that repeats faster. Neither town is a party destination, so don't come here expecting a lively après-ski culture; come here to work, improve, and save money.

Getting around

The nearest major airport is Marseille, roughly 200 kilometres south. Gap is the closest proper town for groceries, supplies, and services; it's close enough for a day trip or quick resupply but not so close that you'll be tempted into town constantly. Both villages are genuinely remote, which is part of their appeal for a focused season; however, it's worth knowing if you need regular urban amenities.