#14: Charmonix

Up until now, we've been focusing on North America (with the notable exception of, naturally, Lillehammer). But it's time to broaden our view and take a look at some of the spectacular skiing Europe has to offer -- beginning with the town of Charmonix, France.


If you're looking for a challenge, Charmonix offers a notorious selections of advanced and expert ski trails. As one of France's most famous ski resorts, Charmonix offers all the charms you would expect from a small French town: pastry shops, cafés, and that indefinable French mystique.



One of Charmonix's most famous attractions is the Grand Montets ski area, an infamous ski path aimed at true experts. The mountain peaks at over 12, 000 feet and drops of 9.000 feet. It also offers miles of cross-country trails, an excellent ski school with dozens of instructors, and a decent number of beginner and intermediate ski trails.



Charmonix is France at its best: beautiful mountains, quaint shops, and dozens of pastries and other delights. You'll need a few days on the ski slopes to balance out the pounds!