Two Of France’s Largest Ski Regions Turn 20

Two of France’s (and the world’s) biggest ski regions, Paradiski and Les Sybelles,  celebrate 20 years of operations this winter.

Paradiski, which is sometimes referred to as the second or third largest ski area in France, with 425km of slopes shared between Les Arcs, La Plagne and Peisey-Vallandry celebrates two decades since the Vanoise Express double-decker cable-car connected them both.

Vanoise Express Cable Car

Les Sybelles (pictured top and below) in the Maurienne region, which claims to be the fourth largest French ski region (and 7th biggest in Europe) is also celebrating two decades since its creation, in its case from the linking together of six ski-in/ski-out village resorts: Le Corbier, La Toussuire, Saint-Sorlin-d’Arves, Saint-Jean-d’Arves, Saint-Colomban-des-Villards, and Les Bottières. The region boasts 136 ski runs to cater for skiers of all abilities, with lifts running between  1,100m to 2,620m.

There’s no detail yet of any celebratory plans from Paradiski, with a La Plagne press statement just saying,

“To celebrate its 20th anniversary, in keeping with its DNA, Paradiski will be focusing on surprise and bringing people together.”

To celebrate its 20th anniversary, Les Sybelles is planning a medley of festive winter events to entertain both young and old. Many will take place at Ouillon’s central peak, at an elevation of 2,431 metres, a 360-degree vantage point and where the six resorts’ ski areas interconnect.

Both Les Sybelles and Paradiski open for their 23-24 seasons on 16th December, 2023.

Pic top credit David Malacrida, pic below credit Andy Parant.