Where to ski in April in the Alps?

In the Alps, the ski season doesn’t end in March. In April, many resorts still have open slopes, much to the delight of skiers. Before helping you choose the best resort for an unforgettable experience, let’s explore the reasons why so many skiing enthusiasts hit the slopes in April.

Why ski in the Alps in April?

A multitude of reasons drives winter sports enthusiasts to wait until April. Here are the main ones:

Enjoy longer days and spring sunshine

It’s hard to miss this detail — the days get longer in April. Skiers get more time to enjoy the sun. And these extended moments of pleasure don’t just happen on the slopes. At the end of the day, settle on a terrace to share your adventures with friends or family. This springtime aperitif might just end with a beautiful sunset.

Get Méribel’s weather forecast today to plan your next ski trip.

Snow and excellent conditions still

In the Alps, particularly in Les 3 Vallées area where 85% of the slopes are located between 1,800 and 3,230 meters above sea level, snow is present from early December to the end of April. Both beginner and passionate skiers enjoy ideal conditions. Not only is the snow still there, but the sun is also shining.

With this mild weather, you fully enjoy the skiing sensations while admiring stunning landscapes. In other words, you’re experiencing a unique time in the mountains!

Get an idea of a sunny ski day today on our Méribel and Les 3 Vallées webcams.

A quieter period and attractive rates

Far from the hustle and bustle of February, you’ll enjoy strolling around the resort and even more so skiing down the slopes in peace. In April, beginners experience the thrill of skiing with serenity, while seasoned skiers can satisfy their thirst for adventure with complete freedom.

The criteria to analyze when choosing a ski resort in April

Skiing in April, yes, but not just anywhere. Here are the key factors to consider to make sure you don’t make the wrong choice.

A high-altitude ski area to guarantee snow

To ensure you'll be able to ski, choose a resort at a high altitude. Starting from 1,400 meters, you are guaranteed excellent skiing conditions throughout April. Don’t worry, many ski slopes are available at this altitude. The Three Valleys domain will offer you perfect snow and an extensive ski area.

A wide range of slopes

In April, the ideal ski resort has a variety of slopes suited to all levels. Since you’ll avoid the crowds, you can enjoy a vast ski area and indulge throughout your stay. If you’re a beginner, you’ll be able to progress at your own pace on quieter slopes.

As an experienced skier, you’ll be free to speed down the most impressive slopes, getting an adrenaline rush with every turn.

Modern and well-maintained facilities

To fully enjoy your mountain stay, choose a modern resort with well-maintained facilities. These criteria guarantee both your comfort and safety.

Look for newly built accommodations with top-notch amenities, perfectly maintained lifts, quality restaurants, and fun zones like snowparks. Make sure everything is in place to offer you a memorable winter holiday.

Méribel and the 3 Vallées: The perfect resorts for skiing in April in the Alps

To fully enjoy skiing in spring, head to Les 3 Vallées ski area. Let us present the reasons why these resorts are the ideal destinations.

Why Méribel, in the heart of the 3 Vallées, is perfect for skiing in April?

First, because Méribel is part of the largest ski area in the world. Then, because the snow coverage is guaranteed until the end of April. The slopes of Les 3 Vallées, suitable for all levels, reach altitudes above 1800 meters. The connections between the neighboring resorts are all located on ridges above 2,000 meters, ensuring optimal snow conditions and ease of access throughout the season.

Les 3 Vallées offers 600 kilometers of interconnected slopes. Ideally located at the heart of this domain, Méribel gives you the opportunity to ski over a vertical drop of more than 60,000 meters. All skiers, regardless of their level, will enjoy accessible slopes with efficient ski lifts. Even during peak season, you won’t have to endure long waiting times.

It’s worth noting that in Val Thorens, skiers and snowboarders can hit the slopes from November 23rd to May 4th.

Unique activities and atmospheres in spring

Ski resorts take on a special charm in spring. While the snow coverage ensures optimal skiing sensations, the sun creates a festive atmosphere in the mountain villages.

In the heart of Les 3 Vallées, enjoy a fully relaxing stay as you ski on less crowded slopes. In the late afternoon, take a stroll through the resort center to shop in peace. Soak in the spring ambiance on a restaurant terrace until sunset.

To enrich your stay in the mountains, don’t limit yourself to the ski area. Enjoy a variety of activities to satisfy your thirst for discovery and create unforgettable memories. Snowshoeing, mountain biking on snow, dog sledding, tobogganing, zip lining—you could even organize a picnic with local products.

Whatever your activities are on the largest ski area in Europe, don’t forget to listen to the birds, happy to sing in the spring. If you're observant, you may even witness the return of activity from the marmots.

Practical tips for organizing your ski trip in April

A ski trip in April requires just as much preparation as during the peak season. You’ll need to plan for specific equipment and warm clothing. But what should you think about before packing your suitcase?

Anticipate booking your accommodation

Even though the peak season has ended, it’s best to book your accommodation in advance. Since you’ve chosen a high-altitude resort, don’t wait for the latest weather forecasts. Book your chalet, apartment, or hotel as early as possible to ensure you can choose the location, options, services, and amenities that suit you best.

The earlier you plan your search, the more likely you are to find a place right at the foot of the slopes. Likewise, an early reservation will give you access to a wider variety of accommodation types. Naturally, the most sought-after properties won’t stay available for long. If you’re looking for a multi-bedroom chalet just steps away from the slopes, don’t delay. Be even quicker if you need one or two parking spaces.

Rent your equipment in advance

To avoid wasting any time on the slopes, book your ski equipment in advance. You’ll be relieved not to have to worry about it once you arrive at the resort. After your journey, you’ll appreciate being able to unpack without stress and settle into your vacation rental.
Once your equipment is booked online or over the phone, you’ll just need to pick it up without having to wait in line at the store.

Buy your ski passes online to avoid queues at the ticket counter

Les 3 Vallées ski resorts are very popular. Even in April, there might still be a short line at the ski pass counter. To avoid wasting time, consider purchasing your Méribel ski pass online. On our website, you can make reservations from December 7th to April 21st and focus entirely on skiing during your stay in the heart of Les 3 Vallées.

Choose your activity, enter the duration, your first day of skiing, and the number of participants, and start your search. Note that you can book passes that give you access to the entire Les 3 Vallées ski area.

If you’ve never experienced skiing in April, don’t hesitate for a second longer. Les 3 Vallées ski area invites you to enjoy the joys of snow in an exceptional setting. Springtime vibes and thrilling sensations guaranteed!