Tignes

With some of the most challenging terrain in the world, it's not all gnarly stuff. Tignes has a softer side and an entire bowl suitable for beginners over towards Val d'Isère.

For blue and red-run skiers and snowboarders, there's an enormous variety of leisurely cruising runs from the very top of the glacier, right down almost to the valley floor.

For those looking to get gnarly though, you'll find skiing here is more like skiing in North America. There's so much accessible off-piste that you don't need to be a pro climber to get to. 

The crazy Bun J Ride is worth taking a look even if you don't intend to have a go. Ski or snowboard off a 30m ramp, fall off the end into a 40m drop on bungee cords and then zip wire all the way back down to earth. Mental, yes, but it's one hell of an adrenaline rush!

Take a trip to what feels like the top of Europe. Even if you don't ski or snowboard down it, it's worth heading to the top of the Grande Motte glacier for the views alone. And don't forget your camera!