Saint Francois – sun station of the Grand Domaine ski resort Saint François (1650 m)

Lying at an altitude of 1450m beneath the Col de La Madeleine mountain pass (altitude of 2000m), the ski station of Saint Francois has exceptional amounts of sun and snow. Like most traditional ski villages in the French Alps, Saint Francois has direct access to the ski resort, and in many cases it’s right outside your door. Another positive of this charming winter sports destination is without doubt its central location in the Grand Domaine ski resort, where skiers can enjoy a unique panoramic view of the Belledonne and l’Oisans mountain chains as well a spectacular views of Mont Blanc. Saint Francois is also popular because of its wide range of services for families and children, including numerous childcare facilities like the “Saperlipopette” children’s village as well as special events.

There’s plenty for Alpine as well as Nordic skiers in the Saint Francois ski resort. Skiers and snowboarders can choose from either 70 kilometres of pistes in Saint Francois or the whole of the Grand Domaine ski resort. There are a wide range of pistes, with 103 slopes of all levels, perfectly linked by a network of 49 lifts.

Wide range of cross-country skiing trails

Around two-thirds of the pistes range from easy to medium, and are therefore ideal for those new to the sport and families; there are also specially installed practice areas. More advanced skiers also have the choice of numerous more demanding slopes, including mogul slopes, wide powder snow fields and extremely challenging steep slopes.

A snow park next to the Rocher Blanc ski lift as well as a boarder cross trail beneath the La Lune Bleue chair lift complete the Alpine activities on offer for skiers in Saint Francois.

Saint Francois is particularly interesting for fans of cross-country skiing. A total of 40 kilometres of trails wind through the beautiful mountain landscape around Saint Francois and are mainly recommended for advanced winter sports fans. For those new to the sport there is a 5 kilometre beginner’s trail; the high-altitude trail up to 1533m is also well worth trying.

If you’d like to experience the winter landscape around Saint Francois in a totally different way there is a dog sled ride or a snow shoe hike on offer.

Guaranteed relaxation

After a day on the snow and in the middle of the unique scenery of the Grand Domaine ski resort, skiers in Saint Francois can really sit back and relax. You can enjoy regional and international specialities in several restaurants before going on to one of the welcoming bars. The après ski programme also offers a visit to the cinema, bowling alley or ice rink. Don’t miss the opportunity to do one of the spectacular night-time skiing trips by torchlight which take place regularly.