After our family’s first ski lesson last year, we were hooked! Well, maybe not my husband quite as much, but he’s a good sport and tags along. This year, we decided to dive deeper into the slopes and spend more time skiing together.

Initially, I wanted to return to Serre Chevalier, where we had a fantastic time last year. However, my sister had grander plans to explore different ski resorts. I suspect her ultimate goal is to conquer every ski destination in the French Alps! While we considered heading to the northern Alps, I was too late securing accommodation – they book up incredibly fast. So, we settled on Pra Loup in the southern Alps, conveniently just a 2.5-hour drive from her house.

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Why Pra Loup Stands Out

Pra Loup is nestled in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region of France, about 7 kilometers from the charming town of Barcelonnette. Established in 1961, it’s one of the largest ski areas in the Southern Alps, known for its family-friendly vibe and diverse terrain. Here’s what I loved about Pra Loup compared to Serre Chevalier:

1. Everything in One Place
Pra Loup has two main areas: Pra Loup 1500 (Les Molanès) and Pra Loup 1600. They’re well-connected, and you can easily ski between them. Whether your group includes beginners, advanced skiers, or even non-skiers, everyone can start from the same central drop-off point and pursue their preferred activities. Meeting up for lunch before hitting the slopes again is a breeze!

2. Free Shuttle Service
A free shuttle operates within the resort, taking you to various points, including the ski station. For those staying outside the resort, buses from nearby villages like Barcelonnette make transportation seamless.

3. Family-Oriented Environment
Pra Loup caters to families with slopes ranging from beginner to advanced levels, ski schools with English-speaking instructors, and plenty of equipment rental options.

4. Activities Beyond Skiing
Non-skiers aren’t left out! The resort offers sledging, a luge roller coaster, ice skating, playgrounds, and snow parks. There’s something for everyone.

5. Vibrant Amenities
Pra Loup 1600 features a pedestrian shopping arcade with shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s a lively hub for après-ski relaxation.

6. Snowmaking Facilities
Even when natural snowfall is delayed, the resort’s snowmaking system ensures the slopes remain open and ready

Getting There

Pra Loup is easily accessible:

• From Paris and the North: Travel via Lyon, Grenoble, Gap, and Barcelonnette.
• From the South of France: Take the A51 autoroute to Tallard, then continue towards Barcelonnette

Where to Stay

Pra Loup offers a variety of accommodations:

• Hotels:
  • SOWELL Family Les Bergers (Pra Loup 1600): All-inclusive with family amenities, an indoor pool, and a sauna.
  • Hotel Club Marmotel & Spa (Pra Loup 1600): Modern rooms and spa facilities with direct slope access.
  • Chalets de Praroustan (Les Molanès): Cozy self-catering chalets with stunning views.
• Apartments and Residences:
  • Résidence Odalys Le Village de Praroustan (Pra Loup 1500): Equipped apartments with a wellness area.
  • La Godille (Pra Loup 1600): Self-catering studios with balconies and panoramic views.
• Nearby Villages: We stayed in a 4-bedroom apartment in Saint-Pons, just a 15-minute drive from the ski station. It was also within walking distance of Barcelonnette, which was great for groceries (hungry kids, anyone?). However, if you plan to ski daily, staying within the resort is more convenient

Barcelonnette: A Hidden Gem

Just 7 kilometers from Pra Loup, Barcelonnette is the most charming village in the Ubaye Valley. Its unique Mexican-inspired heritage stems from 19th-century emigrants who returned wealthy and built ornate “Mexican villas.”

Things to Do in Barcelonnette:

• Stroll around Place Manuel, the lively main square, with its cafes, shops, and artisan markets.
• Visit notable Mexican villas like Villa La Sapinière and Villa Bellevue.
• Sample Alpine delicacies such as tartiflette, raclette, and local cheeses like tomme de l’Ubaye.
• Explore the weekly market for fresh produce and regional specialties.
• In summer, enjoy hiking, cycling, and even rafting along the Ubaye River.

A Memorable Ski Adventure to end 2024

Pra Loup exceeded our expectations with its seamless blend of family-friendly activities, excellent skiing facilities, and vibrant atmosphere. After our last ski at 31 Dec, we were all invited to watch the performance and firework prepared by all the ski instructors, which was a great way to end the year 🩷

Combined with the cultural allure of Barcelonnette, our trip was both adventurous and enriching. If you’re looking for a versatile ski destination with a touch of charm, Pra Loup is a fantastic choice. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, there’s something here for everyone. We can’t wait to return for more snowy adventures!