Have you ever dreamt of a picturesque ski resort nestled in the footprint of a long-extinct volcano? Look no further than Super Besse! Located just four hours west of traditional French Alpine resorts, this hidden gem offers a unique charm that sets it apart from the rest.
A Charming Ski Resort with Unique Features
Super Besse may not be the most aesthetically pleasing ski resort, with its rustic log cabins replaced by concrete structures. However, this only adds to its distinctive character. From its highest vantage point, the resort gives you the feeling of being on an iceberg surrounded by rolling green vistas.
Easy Access and Pleasant Drives
Unlike other resorts with steep and winding mountain roads, Super Besse offers a leisurely drive through the beautiful French countryside. No nerves of steel required! Even when we arrived, snow chains and winter tires were unnecessary, making the journey stress-free.
Four Major Selling Points
Super Besse boasts four major selling points that make it a top choice for ski enthusiasts:
1. Affordable Skiing
Super Besse is one of the most budget-friendly ski resorts we’ve come across. A day’s ski pass, including insurance, costs only €35 per person (€32.50 without insurance). For just an additional €7.50, you can enjoy skiing under the floodlights until 8:45 pm. Even coffee breaks or lunch stops at the local restaurants won’t break the bank, with prices significantly lower than other Alpine resorts.
2. Convenient Location
Situated in the Massif Central area of France, Super Besse is centrally located within the Grand Sancy Ski domain. This means that it’s only a seven-hour drive from Le Havre and Caen, making it an ideal choice if you prefer taking the overnight ferry from Portsmouth. You can be in the resort for a late lunch without much effort.
3. Perfect for Motorhome Adventurers
Unlike many other resorts, Super Besse offers excellent facilities for motorhome travelers. The motorhome aire is well-positioned, even better than some permanent accommodations. During the busiest weeks of the season, when French and English schools have half-term breaks, the aire can comfortably accommodate close to 100 vans. Most pitches have access to mains power, and the overnight costs are reasonable. Additionally, power can be purchased for €2.50 for four hours. The aire also provides a daily gas rental delivery service, ensuring you never run out of gas during your stay.
4. Night Skiing Thrills
One of the unique perks of Super Besse is night skiing. As soon as the sun sets, several pistes are illuminated, creating a thrilling atmosphere for snow sports enthusiasts. The jumps park is also open during these evening sessions, allowing the most daring skiers to showcase their skills. The only downside to night skiing is that the pistes can become a bit moguley and slushy after a long day of use, refreezing at night and making the descent a little more challenging.
Speaking French and Embracing the Local Culture
During our stay, we noticed that Super Besse isn’t particularly popular with English tourists. English-speaking attendants at the ski pass shop were not mandatory, and English speakers were scarce. However, we found that the locals were more than tolerant of our attempts to speak French, making us feel comfortable and welcome. So, don’t be afraid to practice your French skills!
In summary, Super Besse may not have the vast expanse of pistes found in larger resorts, with only 45 kilometers of runs and a handful of lifts. However, its layout, services, affordability, convenient location, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a resort worth returning to. Additionally, Super Besse offers a multitude of summer activities, giving you even more reason to visit this enchanting destination.
Note: Please be aware that the information provided in this article was accurate at the time of writing. We recommend checking the latest updates and regulations before planning your trip.
Update (March 2020): The neighboring resort, Mont-Dore, has gone into administration due to poor snowfall during the 2019/2020 season. As these resorts are linked, the impact on Super Besse is yet to be determined. Stay tuned for further updates.
Now that you know the secret, plan your next adventure to Super Besse and experience the magic for yourself!
