When you think of France, you probably immediately think of sun, lavender fields and balmy summer evenings. Yet this beautiful country also has a lot to offer during the winter. Of course, the Alps area paradise for skiers, this is the perfect place to enjoy your winter sports holiday with your family in the Portes du Soleil to the max. But did you know that you can also enjoy plenty of peace and quiet, culture and culinary discoveries during the cold season? In winter, France transforms into an atmospheric backdrop of lights, Christmas markets and warm cosiness. Towns and villages are festively decorated, the smell of roasted chestnuts fills the air and there is a relaxed, almost fairytale atmosphere everywhere. In this blog, we will highlight some of the most beautiful regions that are definitely worth visiting in winter.
Would you prefer to go on a winter sports holiday?
Our parks in the Portes du Soleil Our accommodations in the Alps Order emissions sticker Order Toll badge
1. Rhône-Alpes in the winter
Rhône-Alpes is the perfect region for those who love winter sports and relaxation. Of course, you'll find world-famous ski resorts such as Portes du Soleil here – which is also home to our luxury FranceComfort resorts – but the region has much more to offer. In addition to going skiing and snowboarding, you will be able to enjoy atmospheric villages, excellent gastronomy and winter events that emphasize the French charm.
What is the weather like during Christmas in the Rhône-Alpes region?
Winters in the Rhône-Alpes are fresh and dry. During the day, the temperature fluctuates between 1 °C and 8 °C, but at night it can freeze considerably. So make sure you are well prepared with warm clothing and a waterproof coat. Whether you opt for a stroll through Lyon or a day on the slopes, a hot chocolate always tastes good here!
🔗 Also read: Winter sports holiday in France
Visit the atmospheric city of Lyon
During the winter, Lyon has something magical about it. The hustle and bustle of summer gives way to tranquillity and warmth, while the city comes alive thanks to special events:
- Fête des Lumières: a spectacular light festival in December, during which buildings and squares are transformed into works of art made from light.
- Christmas markets: sample local delicacies at the Place Bellecour market and enjoy the aroma of mulled wine and pastries.
- Culinary enjoyment: warm up in an authentic bouchon and taste the rich Lyonnaise cuisine.
- Museums & culture: discover the Musée des Confluences or admire art in the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
- Winter fun in the city: hop on the Ferris wheel on Place Bellecour and enjoy the view of twinkling lights of Lyon.
Tip: always check the opening hours of museums and attractions around the holidays, seen as they can vary.
2. The Dordogne in winter
The Dordogne is an oasis of peace in winter. Where the region is bustling with tourists in the summer, silence returns in the winter. The mild climate - with temperatures around 10 °C - makes it the ideal place to relax and enjoy nature, culture and gastronomy.
Immerse yourself in the history of impressive castles
There are many impressive castles in the Dordogne that are also open in winter, such as Château de Beynac and Château des Milandes. Without the summer crowds, you can wander through the rooms in peace and enjoy the view over the Dordogne valley. A wonderful activity for a chilly winter day.
Taste the wines of the region
A glass of wine by the fire, that's the Dordogne at its best. An afternoon in a cozy wine cellar is therefore the ultimate winter outing. Around Bergerac, you will find several wineries open for tastings. You can also drive a wine route near Bergerac. Learn about the local grape varieties and taste the full, warm flavors of wines like Monbazillac and Pécharmant.
Put on your hiking boots and enjoy the winter scenery
The misty riverbanks and rolling hills have a special atmosphere in winter. Stroll past picturesque villages such as Castelnaud-la-Chapelle and La Roque-Gageac, where time seems to stand still. The low sun provides a warm, golden light: perfect for peace seekers and nature lovers. After a nice walk, warm up by a fire in a restaurant and enjoy delicious dishes in the Dordogne. Satisfied, you will return to your holiday home in the Dordogne at the end of the day.
3. A day of cocooning in your luxury holiday home
After a few days in the fresh air of the Dordogne or the Abondance valley, it is also nice to stay in your comfortable accommodation for a day. FranceComfort's holiday homes and apartments offer the best of both worlds: the charm of France and the comfort of home. Relax in the spacious seating area, enjoy a movie on the Smart TV or retreat to your bedroom with a soft box-spring bed. Most homes have a fully equipped kitchen, a modern bathroom and - not unimportantly - a breathtaking view. In our winter sports holiday parks you can also enjoy Wellness & Après-ski.
Whether you choose a luxury chalet in the Alps or a villa full of character in the Dordogne: you will experience the same warm hospitality from FranceComfort everywhere.
