Top Cross-Country ski resorts in France

Must-visit nordic ski areas for cross-country skiing enthusiasts

Cross-country skiing is a complete and accessible discipline. Whether you are a beginner, a skating enthusiast, or an experienced skier, France offers an exceptional variety of Nordic ski areas.
At WORDEN, we highlight Nordic skiing through our Top cross-country ski resorts, selected for the quality of their trails, landscapes, and infrastructure.

1. Savoie Grand Revard

The largest Nordic ski area in France, Savoie Grand Revard connects several well-known sites.

• 150 km of trails

• Numerous routes through forested areas

• Varied and accessible terrain

• Picnic rooms and lockers available

Ideal for families, beginners, and long-distance skiers

You can also ski the “Classique du Père Louis”, an 8 km cross-country route in classic technique, winding through forest trails on the plateau.

If you need to rent equipment, you can stop directly at the entrance of the resort at our WORDEN La Féclaz store.

2. Plateau des Glières

The Plateau des Glières is a high-altitude Nordic site, relatively open, offering exceptional views of the Aravis range.

• Around 30 km of trails

• Quiet, natural atmosphere

• Mostly open terrain with little forest cover

• Wide trails with gentle profiles

This area is particularly well suited to recreational cross-country skiing, beginners, and skiers looking for smooth, non-technical routes.

3. Les Saisies

Les Saisies features a Nordic ski area built around a large high-altitude plateau, between forests and alpine pastures.

• Over 120 km of trails

• Forested sections sheltered from the wind

• Olympic site (Albertville 1992)

• Wide range of both sporty and recreational trails

The diversity of trail profiles allows for both technical training and long-distance skiing, in classic and skating styles.

4. Bessans

A true stronghold of cross-country skiing, Bessans is a legendary destination for Nordic skiing enthusiasts.

• Around 130 km of trails

• International biathlon stadium

• Technical and demanding trails

• Mostly open terrain

A must-visit for experienced skiers and competitors. An outstanding cross-country ski destination—just be prepared for cold temperatures and dress warmly with proper thermal layers.

5. Villard-de-Lans / Corrençon-en-Vercors

The Nordic area of Villard-de-Lans / Corrençon stretches across the Vercors High Plateaus, combining dense forests with open areas.

• Around 125 km of marked trails

• Alternation of spruce forests, clearings, and plateaus

• Trails suitable for all skill levels

This domain is appreciated for its consistent, endurance-focused skiing, well suited to long outings in both skating and classic techniques.

6. Les Rousses

Located in the Haut-Jura, Les Rousses is a major reference for cross-country skiing in France, known for its forest routes.

• Around 220 km of trails across several sectors

• Mostly forest skiing, well sheltered from the wind

• Gentle to rolling terrain, ideal for endurance

• Excellent grooming quality in classic and skating

The area is particularly valued for its regular trail profiles and reliable snow conditions, thanks to the Jura climate.
An ideal site for skiers seeking smooth, technical skiing in a forested and well-protected environment.

WORDEN – Your Partner for Nordic Adventures

Whether you practice cross-country skiing recreationally or competitively, having the right equipment is essential.
At WORDEN, we offer everything you need to fully enjoy these outstanding Nordic ski areas: cross-country skis, boots, poles, clothing, and accessories.

Need advice? Our WORDEN experts are here to help you choose the right equipment.