The romance of the ski chalet nestled amongst trees, blanketed in snow, fire roaring, is surely in the dreams of many a skier as ‘the’ couples’ ski holiday. It’s the ‘where’ that can sometimes be a trickier decision.

(TRAVPR.COM) UK - September 7th, 2010 - With so many alpine resorts clamoring for your attention the noise can be almost deafening, to help filter out the appealing from the appalling here are four top French ski resorts for couples.

Chamonix
For total immersion in snow and mountain culture, Chamonix is near impossible to beat. Renowned for it’s embracing of all things extreme and alternative, the on-snow diversity is matched by a very healthy appetite for the Apres Ski. Being a ‘living’ town, Chamonix is an excellent all-year round choice, with summer glacier skiing to compliment it’s mountain bike to parapenting and ice climbing to canyoning activities.

Meribel
As part of the Trois Vallees ski area, this is one of the chicest ski resorts in the French alps. Central to the town is the main square, off which run numerous bars, cafes, restaurants and some of the most upmarket shops in around. Meribel is at the heart of the 3 Valley’s Apres Ski scene, with such well known venues as Dicks-T Bar, and Jack’s Bar. The town square even plays host to giant wooden labyrinth, chess and other games. The skiing is up there with the best of them, and is linked with Courchevel and Val Thorens.

Sainte Foy
Sainte Foy is an excellent example of an old style alpine hamlet. Not quite as high as the more modern counterparts, but undergoing a renaissance. It’s ski area has received quite a lot of new funding recently, with new lifts, refurbishment and a general expansion of the terrain available. Because Ste Foy is not as huge as nearby neighbours such as Val d’Isere and Tignes, it has far fewer bars and restaurants - but the ones it does have are excellent, and more than enough for the number of guests in the area.

Les Gets
If you’re a sporty couple, looking to cram in as many activities as possible, along with your sliding sports, then Les Gets is more than worth a look. The town is part of the monster Portes du Soleil which includes Morzine, Avoriaz and Champéry over in Switzerland. Les Gets can offer an indoor and outdoor ice rink, ten pin bowling, fully equipped fitness centre, and a curious mix between skiing and horse riding called Ski Joëring. After all the strenuous activity; The Wellness centre at the Hotel Mamotte and the Beauty Salon at the Institut Clair Moment offer a tremendous range of body care, massage and relaxation rituals from around the world.

Although the purpose built resorts may not have the aesthetic appeal of the more traditionally styled ones, they should not be ignored. These tend to be high altitude, which means you and your partner will be able to ski pretty much to door, or a very short walk at the least. They also can offer tremendous value for money, even if the accommodation can seem rather clinical, and slightly less than personal.

Some tour operators have recognised the need to offer a more couple specific service, Alpine Elements’ ‘Ski Holidays for Couples’ being one such scheme. These offer discounts and extras (such as free liftpasses), specifically for couples, as well as recommending particular ‘couples chalets’. Whilst bigger groups, typically eight or more, will attract bigger benefits, it is good to see that couples are now getting some recognition.

###