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- Destinations
- Europe
- France
- French Alps
French Alps
The deep valleys and soaring snow-covered peaks of the Alps
border France, Switzerland and Italy in dramatic splendour,
delighting walkers and climbers in summer and offering a challenge
to skiers and snowboarders in the winter months.
Downhill skiing was established here towards the end of the 19th
century by the English, since when an increasing number of French
and international skiers (and more recently snowboarders) have been
attracted to the first-rate resorts. French resorts may not be as
picturesque as those in Switzerland and Austria but they are some
of the most extensive and best; by European standards they are
high, mostly between 6,562 and 9,843 feet (2,000m and 3,000m), and
have reliable snow. The ski season runs from late November to April
and is busiest during the Christmas and Easter holidays.
Climbers and hikers head for the Alps between July and September
when the weather is more predictable and the snow above 6,562 feet
(2,000m) has melted. There are a number of national parks with
round-the-park trails requiring one or two weeks walking, there are
also longer trans-alpine routes, which should only be attempted by
experienced walkers. Local tourist offices supply detailed maps of
their area. The towns of Grenoble, Annecy and Chambéry are good
bases for hiking. Climbers tend to head to the Chamonix-Mont Blanc
area.
Information & Facts
Climate
The French Alps offer lots of sunshine, but cold weather from
November to April when the ski season is in full swing. The resorts
are generally high and the snow is excellent, although the weather
is relatively mild in comparison to the North American resorts.
During the summer months the cool, sunny weather attracts hikers
and climbers, particularly from July to September when the weather
has settled and the high snows have melted.
Language
French is the official language.
Money
The Euro (EUR) is the official currency in France. Currency can
be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and some large hotels,
though you will get a better exchange rate at the ATMs. Major
credit cards are widely accepted, as are travellers cheques,
particularly in major tourist destinations. Foreign currency is not
accepted.
Time
Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 between last Sunday in March and
last Sunday in October).