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Vars Ski Holidays
Vars is located in the southern Haute Alpes region in the French Alps. Linked with the ski resort of Risoul, they present a quieter option to busier, larger resorts in that part of France. Vars-les-Claux, name in full, has often been described as one of the French Alps' best-kept secrets thanks to its sizable ski terrain, high-altitude slopes and good snow record. In addition, it has up to 300 days of sun every year and is particularly known to be a fantastic value for money as it generally costs less than most of the more popular resorts in the area. The ski resort is purpose-built and split into the 4 small hamlets of Vars Sainte-Marie at 1,650 metres, Vars Sainte-Catherine at 1,750 metres, Vars Sainte-Marcellin at 1,650 metres and Vars-les-Claux, the main resort at 1,850 metres. Linked to the Forêt Blanche ski area , Vars has up to 180 kilometres across 104 pistes in total, covering altitudes between 1,660 and 2,750 metres. The village has old, 1970’s style buildings but is set in a heavily, tree-lined valley which adds some character to a somewhat grunge look. Vars has a lot of vast and open territory on offer; affording visitors to the resort big sky views and breathtaking landscapes. Less than a 2-hour transfer from Turin Caselle Airport, it is generally quite easy to get to. It has very good accommodation options most of which are boutique and chalet-style hotels and self-catering apartments. It is also a great family-friendly option and ideal for ski holidaymakers searching for a calmer and slow-paced resort. It also has a good number of non-ski activities to get involved with including escaping into nature on snowshoe and hiking trails, snowmobile rides, dog sledding and tobogganing amongst many others.
A high-altitude, snow-sure paradise that connects seamlessly to the thrilling slopes in the Forêt Blanche area!
Rebecca Dodson, Sales Manager
Mountain facts
The main ski area is the Domaine de la Forêt Blanche, encompassing Vars and Risoul. Across this extensive domain, skiers can explore a total of 185 km of pistes, serviced by approximately 51 modern lifts. The main resort altitude in Les Claux sits at a snow-sure 1,850m, with the highest lift and summit topping out at a commanding 2,750m. This provides a substantial vertical drop of 1,100m. The pistes are perfectly balanced for progression: roughly 75km are Easy (green/ blue), a fantastic 90km are Intermediate (blue/ red), and approximately 20km are Difficult (Black).
Snow conditions in Vars
While the annual average snowfall of approximately 209cm may be less than in some Northern Alps resorts, Vars’ consistent high altitude ensures excellent snow retention. The general sunny aspect, typical of the Southern Alps, is counterbalanced by the resort's height (reaching up to 2,750m) and its excellent natural features. The extensive tree-lined skiing, which earns the domain its ‘White Forest’ name, particularly in the west-facing Peynier area, shields the snow from the sun and wind, maintaining its quality. The ski area also features extensive snowmaking capacity, covering approximately 35% of the terrain, which guarantees reliable conditions on all main routes throughout the season.
Skiing in Vars
Vars is an exceptional resort for every level of skier, starting with an excellent dedicated beginner focus. The main learning area is surprisingly high and easily accessible at the top of the Chabrières Gondola, allowing novices to enjoy high-altitude views from their very first day. Additionally, gentle green slopes and beginner lifts are conveniently located near the Vars Les Claux hub.
Intermediate skiing forms the true heart of La Forêt Blanche. Most of the 185km of pistes are ideally suited to intermediate skiers, providing long, leisurely blue and red cruising runs that weave across both the Vars and Risoul sectors. A highlight is the challenging and scenic 8km Olympique Red Run, which drops over 1,000m from the Mayt chairlift down to Vars Sainte Marie.
For expert skiers, Vars is unmatched in the region. It's home to the world-famous Chabrières speed piste, one of the steepest and fastest runs globally and the site of multiple world speed records. For those seeking challenging black runs, the areas around Pic de Chabrières offer the resort's trickiest groomed descents. Off-piste skiing is also a major draw; Vars is renowned for its ungroomed runs, which become available after fresh snowfall, as well as technical gullies like La Banane and La Virgule near the Pic de Chabrières. However, a mountain guide is highly recommended for these routes.
Snowboarding in Vars
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Vars is generally a snowboard-friendly destination with broad, sweeping pistes that cater well to carving, though riders should be aware that a few drag lifts still exist in certain sectors. Crucially, Vars has established itself as a major freestyle destination. It boasts multiple, well-maintained freestyle areas, including a popular dedicated snowpark (often located near the Crevoux lift area) that features jumps, rails, and a boardercross course.
The terrain is highly varied, offering open bowls at the top for powder riding and sheltered, wooded runs lower down, providing great variety for all snowboarding styles.
Accommodation in Vars
Accommodation in Vars comprises a practical mix of comfortable hotels, spacious apartment residences, and chalets. Due to the resort's modern layout, many properties are designed to offer the sought-after convenience of ski-in, ski-out access.
All accommodation in Vars
What's available at Vars ski resort?
Après-ski in Vars
Vars offers a lively yet generally relaxed après-ski scene, which typically moves swiftly from sun-drenched mountain terraces to cosy village bars. The emphasis here is on good food, convivial settings, and a friendly atmosphere rather than loud nightclubs.
- Les Bistrots de Vars is a well-regarded spot located close to the pistes. It is known for its focus on quality dining and a relaxed bar atmosphere, which perfectly transitions from the slopes to the evening.
- The mountain restaurant Le Chalet du Torrent is fantastic for a mid-ski break or late afternoon drinks. It often features large, sunny terraces and a vibrant, friendly atmosphere before guests make their final descent.
- La Marmotte, ideally situated right at the foot of the pistes, is a highly recommended spot for that quintessential après-ski moment. It is known for its warm, traditional mountain atmosphere, generous comfort food (like pizzas and fondue), and a great selection of drinks, making it an excellent choice for families and friends.
Facilities in Vars
Vars offers a wealth of non-skiing facilities for year-round fun. A major draw is the thrilling Caribou mountain coaster is a major draw, which provides a high-speed, year-round toboggan-like experience on rails. Similar high-speed action is found with rail sledging, or luge sur rail.
For slower-paced snow activities, the resort offers dedicated circuits for snowshoeing (34km of trails), cross-country skiing (7km of trails), and the unique experience of dog sledging. Wellness and leisure options are available in several major residences and hotels, which offer spa and wellness centres. For the adrenaline enthusiast, more high-speed action can be found off the pistes with ice driving and snowmobiling.
Facilities for children in Vars
Vars is well-equipped for families, with the leading French Ski School offering comprehensive lessons for children, typically starting at four for skiing. Available childcare programmes, including those provided by the ski schools, cater to different age groups.
A popular and unique feature for young children is the Fun Zone at the foot of the Mayt chairlift. This zone offers safe, fun introductory trails perfect for mountain biking/ skiing, creating an ideal learning environment. Families can also look out for organised fun and events throughout the season, such as weekly torchlight descents (often during school holidays) and snow-based games designed to entertain younger guests.
Why choose Erna Low for Vars skiing holidays?
Incredible value holidays: We’ll beat any competitor’s price, giving you the best value for money.
Huge choice of accommodation: Choose from bargain breaks, 5-star premium deals and so much more.
Customisable travel: We specialise in fully customisable ski holidays; offering a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Fully protected bookings: We’re ABTOT and ATOL members and abide by their Code of Conduct.
5-star Trustpilot reviews: We pride ourselves on the service we provide, which is why out of 10 of our clients would recommend us.
Get your adrenaline pumping on the famous Chabrières speed ski run and enjoy the dry, high-quality snow.
Jane Bolton, Product Director
