If you thought the ski season ended when the snow melted in spring, think again. Summer skiing is returning to the French Alps in 2026, giving skiers and snowboarders the chance to carve turns on glacier slopes while the valleys below bask in sunshine. Whether you’re chasing year-round adventure, training for the winter ahead or simply want to experience the novelty of skiing in June and July, France offers some of Europe’s best opportunities.
Why summer skiing should be on your travel list
There is something undeniably special about skiing while everyone else is heading to the beach. The quieter slopes, spectacular alpine scenery and cooler mountain temperatures create a unique atmosphere that differs greatly from the busy winter months.
For keen skiers, summer skiing provides an opportunity to maintain technique and fitness during the off-season. It is also popular with race teams and athletes preparing for the winter circuit. For recreational visitors, it offers the chance to combine skiing with hiking, cycling, spa breaks and mountain dining.
Where to go for summer skiing in France
Val d’Isère: The season begins
Val d’Isère is expected to kick off France’s glacier season from 7 June until 12 July 2026, subject to snow conditions. Initially planned as a three-week opening, favourable conditions have allowed the resort to extend its ambitions to a five-week season.
The skiing takes place on the Pisaillas Glacier, accessed via the Col de l’Iseran. The public slopes include:
- Moraine
- Montet
- Combe du Géant
The terrain ranges from approximately 2,725 metres to 3,197 metres, delivering high-altitude conditions that help preserve the snow. Race teams also train here, creating an exciting atmosphere for visitors
Tignes offers extended summer skiing
If late June suits your schedule better, Tignes opens its Grande Motte Glacier from 20 June to 19 July 2026, again depending on snow quality.
The glacier rises to around 3,456 metres, with access beginning via the Perce-Neige funicular before continuing on the Grande Motte cable car. Visitors can usually enjoy up to 20 kilometres of pistes, making Tignes one of the largest glacier ski areas operating during the summer months.
Early morning skiing is common, with lifts often running from breakfast time until around midday to take advantage of firmer snow conditions.
Les 2 Alpes extends the season
Les 2 Alpes continues to blur the boundaries between winter and summer. The resort intends to remain operational until 5 July 2026, although some glacier areas may prioritise race team training during certain periods. Resort representatives have indicated that recreational skiers should still have opportunities to access the mountain.
For those seeking flexibility and a resort atmosphere that bridges spring and summer, Les 2 Alpes remains a compelling option.
What makes summer skiing so appealing?
Beyond the obvious novelty, the experience itself feels completely different from a winter holiday.
Imagine finishing your morning runs before lunch, then spending the afternoon mountain biking, hiking or relaxing on a sunny terrace overlooking snow-covered peaks. It is this contrast that makes the experience unforgettable.
The high-altitude environment also provides excellent training conditions, which is why professional race teams from around the world choose French glaciers during the off-season.
