Located at 1850 metres above sea level, in the heart of the Hautes Alpes, Vars ehas become one of the most famous resorts for winter and summer sports in the Southern Alps. It lies amidst high mountains with surrounding summits reaching more than 3000 m (Massif des Écrins and Massif du Queyras).

The Forêt Blancheski area, which includes the resorts of Vars and Risoul is classified the 2nd largest ski area in the Southern Alps.

The Forêt Blanche is aptly named because trees are still found here at an altitude of 2200 m.

For more information on the resort: http://www.vars-ski.com/

Downhill skiing:
The Forêt Blanche ski area has 180 km of pistes between 1650 and 2750 m above sea level, served by 55 ski-lifts.

Cross-country skiing:
45 km of cross-country routes, including 25 km of "France Ski de Fond" pistes.

Skidoos:
In the evening, after the runs are closed, appreciate the mountains and the large open spaces of the Forêt Blanche with snow scooters which are an excellent way of escaping with friends in complete safety. Find out what it feels like to drive on snow and progress up to mastering the machine with daring jumps and turns.

Snowshoe trekking:
The spectacular landscapes of the Southern Alps can be explored at any time of day using snowshoes. You may be lucky enough to see small mountain mammals, such as squirrels and hare; you can also enjoy a break from your exertions in one of the Alpine igloos.

Dog sledding:
Explore nature, the landscape and magnificent snowy valleys being pulled along by huskies.

Ice waterfall climbing:
Somewhere between rock climbing and frozen torrent climbing, this activity consists of climbing on ice waterfalls while exploring the landscapes of natural torrents in an unspoilt environment.

Snow hiking:
Using the ski-lifts accessible to pedestrians, you can walk among the mountain summits and enjoy some of the most magnificent views in the Hautes Alpes. There are 30 km of safe, regularly maintained packed snow routes which you can explore on foot or using snowshoes in order to make the most of these splendid landscapes.

Sledding:
Two regularly maintained and protected sledding areas welcome children throughout the winter season. There are also runs for adults, arranged with humps, banked turns and other features. Special events such as races from the summit or "the snake slide" with sledges following one after the other, are also organised.

Helicopter rides:
Explore the Forêt Blanche ski area by flying over it. Spectacular panoramic views and splendid countryside with completely unspoilt landscapes.

Ice skating:
Come and have fun, relax and enjoy yourself while experiencing a very specific sliding sensation!

"Alaska" trip:
Early-morning outing in a tracked vehicle to watch the sunrise.

Hiking:
Hike over the cols of the area, in particular the col de Vars, which gives you an extraordinary panoramic view of the resort and the Hautes Alpes.

Aeroplane flights:
Explore the Alps from above.

Mountain biking:
Cycle the 700 m², mountain bike trail, located in the heart of the resort and made entirely of natural obstacles. The course will introduce you to control, crossing and balancing techniques with balance bridges, narrow bridges, rocks and a stream.
More than 100 km of trails have been set out and marked for mountain bike riding.

Art exhibition:
Discover local and regional artists, with their passion and talent for painting.

White-water sports:
Rafting, hydrospeed, "hot dog", canoe and kayaking courses.

Other activities include: Golf,Squash, Mountain climbing, Fishing,Swimming, Archery, Tennis, Horse riding, Mini-golf, Skate park,Quad biking, etc.

Games hall:
After a day on the slopes, both children and adults can test the latest game models and virtual surfing.
Pinball, table football, air hockey, videos etc. will delight keen game players.

Library:
For your relaxation, we offer a wide choice of books, cartoons, specialist works, etc. The library is also an excellent place in which to discover local and regional authors.

Shopping:
Four shopping arcades to satisfy all your requirements and needs.

Cinéma:
Enjoy a pleasant evening with friends or family at the two cinemas in the resort. Relaxation guaranteed after a day of intense skiing.

Paragliding:
Explore the Hautes Alpes using wind power. Discover the joys of paragliding on introductory courses. You can even fly with skis attached!