France regains position as world's top skiing destination

France has reclaimed its position as the world's top skiing destination for the 2025/2026 winter season, recording 56.1 million skier days. This surpasses Austria, which recorded 53.7 million, and the United States, which saw a 14% decline to 52.6 million.

While France saw a 2% increase in skier days, analysts note that its rise to the top was partly due to the significant drop in American numbers. The French market remains stable, supported by strong snowfall in November and January, as well as a notable 20% increase in mid-winter activity compared to previous years.

Despite the growth in volume, the cost of skiing remains high. In major French domains, daily lift passes can exceed 80 euros. The 3 Vallées in Savoie, the world's largest ski area, recorded the highest daily rate at 84.20 euros for adults during high season. According to Laurent Reynaud of Domaines skiables de France, these costs are driven by staff wages, taxes, and the high cost of maintaining and amortizing lift infrastructure.