Vars, French Alps

Vars: 5 things to know before you go

French Alps, France 🇫🇷

Vars pairs an old Alpine village with a slope-side resort and shares the 185 km Forêt Blanche domain with neighbouring Risoul. It is sunny, family-friendly and home to one of the world's fastest speed-skiing tracks.

1.Is the snow reliable in Vars?

Usually, with help. From 1850 m to 2750 m the resort leans on grooming and snowmaking in lean spells, so check the live report before booking early or late dates (score 79/100).

2.Do you need a car, or can you ski in and out?

Ski-in/ski-out depends on the address here: some hotels are on the snow, others need a short walk or shuttle. Pick a slopeside address if skiing from the door matters to you.

3.How big is the ski area, and who is it for?

At 185 km of piste on 51 lifts, it is a substantial mountain that rewards a multi-day stay. The terrain is balanced (11 green, 24 blue, 28 red, 9 black), which suits a mixed-level group skiing together.

4.What is the resort like?

Vars stands out for a family-friendly setup and serious off-piste and freeride terrain.

5.When is the best time to go?

The season usually runs Dec 14 to Apr 14 (about 17 weeks). For the most dependable cover, the deep-winter window of January to February is the safe bet. The altitude also holds spring snow, so late-season skiing stays good well into spring.

The full Vars guide

Hotels, piste breakdown, snow month by month, lift and rental info, map and more.

See the full Vars guide

More questions, answered

How much vertical drop does Vars have?
About 900 m of vertical, from a 1850 m base to 2750 m at the top.
Is Vars part of a larger ski area?
Yes. Vars is part of the La Forêt Blanche ski area, one of the big linked domains, so a single lift pass opens the whole thing.
Is Vars good for beginners?
Yes. With 11 green and 24 blue runs, there is plenty of gentle terrain to learn on.

Where to stay

Hotels we like for ski access and value. Prices are indicative; check live availability.

Hôtel et spa le 16 | 150**** - restaurant le Skitchen - Vars
4.7210 reviews
145
Top pick

Hôtel et spa le 16 | 150**** - restaurant le Skitchen - Vars

Excellent · 210 reviews

Why we like it

One of the highest-rated places to stay in Vars, with guests singling out the service and comfort.

Guests rate this hotel as excellent (4.7/5 from 210 reviews). It sits about 1.8 km from the slopes. A mid-range option for Vars, with live nightly rates shown for your exact dates so you always see the best price.

≈ 1.8 km to the slopesMid-range
From
145/ night
Check availability
Logis Chalet-Hôtel Alpage et Spa
4.8133 reviews
135

Logis Chalet-Hôtel Alpage et Spa

Excellent · 133 reviews

Why we like it

Strong value for Vars, with a high guest rating that punches above its nightly price.

≈ 1.6 km to the slopesMid-range
From
135/ night
Check availability

Ratings and review counts from Google Places. We may earn a commission on bookings.

Live snow reportSki-in/ski-out: France