As one of the largest ski areas in the world, the Three Valleys attracts a huge number of visitors over the festive period. If you’re looking for a novel way to ring in Christmas and the New Year, consider one of the last minute ski holidays to the Three Valleys, where you can enjoy a wide range of festive activities.

Courchevel

Courchevel is a perfect place to celebrate Christmas. Throughout the day and evening of the 24th, you’ll be able to watch festive parades and little ones can meet Father Christmas. There’s also a carol concert outside the tourist office, and a Christmas mass you can attend. Plenty of the local restaurants have a special festive menu on Christmas Eve, so if you book a table you’ll be able to treat yourself to a magnificent Christmas meal. Be aware that they may not frequently be heavily publicised in advance, so if in doubt, inquire over the phone as to whether they’ll be offering a special Christmas menu.

While you’re in Courchevel, don’t miss the opportunity to attend one of the ‘Chamallow’ parties that run throughout the season, including a Boxing Day event. These festive parties have a great ambience and centre (as the name might suggest) on roasting marshmallows over a fire pit. They sometimes include local and visiting DJs spinning tunes.

Another great thing about Courchevel is that, unlike many resorts, the lifts and pistes do not close on Christmas Day. Last minute ski holidays are often restricted (due to ticket price and availability) to specific dates, but even if your holiday spans Christmas Day, you won’t lose out on any of skiing at Courchevel.

Meribel

The foodies may wish to consider a Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve dinner in Meribel. The high-end hotel and restaurant, Le Grand Coeur & Spa, offers a magnificent eight-course Christmas Eve meal, including truffles, traditional Savoyard cheeses, and top quality meats and seafood. On New Year’s Eve, the restaurant offers another, similarly opulent, eight-course meal, including scallops, foie gras de canard, veal and macarons. Just because, by their nature, last minute ski holidays may be organised in a rush, it doesn’t mean you don’t deserve world-class cuisine! Call ahead and reserve a place so you won’t be disappointed, however.

Val Thorens

If you’re a devotee of apres-ski nightlife, look no further than Val Thorens. Every year, on New Year’s Eve, Val Thorens holds the party to end all parties. This year’s line-up is yet to be announced, but you can expect renowned DJs until 1am, along with fireworks at midnight. It’s a brilliant way for visitors to the Three Valleys to greet the New Year.

In short, even if you’re booking at the very last minute, ski holidays in the Three Valleys around the festive season offer plenty of fun and lively celebrations. You may find other events that pique your interest as well, to help you form the perfect festive ski holiday itinerary.