A resort on the flank of the Sancy massif in the Auvergne, built on the slopes of an extinct volcano in the middle of France, which gives it a landscape unlike anywhere else in the country.

It shares a pass with Le Mont Dore on the other side of the massif. The terrain is wide and mostly gentle, well suited to families and beginners, with extensive snowmaking and a good learning area.

The Auvergne is a long way from the Alps in every sense, with volcanic lakes, thermal spas and a food culture built on cheese and lentils. Clermont Ferrand lies about an hour off.

Prices are among the lowest for a resort of this size in France, and the crowds are almost entirely French.