Vars

Area Profile

Vars shares the giant Foret Blanche ski area with neighbouring Risoul, one of the most affordable of the giant French ski regions. Whilst Risoul is a major British destination, Vars has a longer history and a predominantly French feel.

Vars is situated on the other side of the Pic de Chabrièresr to Risoul and claims to enjoy 300 days of sunshine a year. The resort is divided in to four bases, although the original centre, Les Claux (often just known as Vars), is by far the largest and has the lion's share of facilities. Its 1900m altitude makes it one of the higher resorts in the Alps too, a particular strength given the southerly latitude of the area compared to many of the other well known French resorts.

Les Claux is made up of a mixture of concrete blocks and traditional chalet designs.

Smaller settlements are at Sainte Catherine, Sainte Marie and Saint Marcellin, all but Sainte Catherine have lifts and runs down to the edge of the village.

Lodging Profile

Slopeside accomodations are available with a total of 17,000 beds. 16 additional hotels located nearby.

Services Profile

7 mountain restaurants and 26 more located nearby; cuisine features French, Gastronomique and Italian. Also located nearby are 40 shops, a bank, 2 post offices, a petrol station, and a laundrette. Child care services are available for ages 1 1/2 years and up. The ski school offers lessons for ages 3 years to adults. Nearest town is Briancon, 40km away.

Snowboarding Profile

A snow park and a halfpipe available for all snowboarding capabilities.