Located in the extreme northwest of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, in the high Romanche Valley, La Grave offers the most extreme skiing and snowboarding in the most stunning mountain scenery in the world. Many come here for the vertical descent of La Meije Mountain, a staggering 2,150m. There are also beginner runs and cross-country skiing.

The village is perched on a rocky slope at 1,525m above sea level and is surrounded by five smaller villages: Les Fréaux, Le Chazelet, Les Terrasses, Ventelon and Les Hières. La Grave has convenience stores, barbershops and ski shops and also some interesting sightseeing such as the local church.

La Grave has over 2,500 beds in 16 hotels, lodges and 155 furnished rentals; the Residence des Alps is a wonderful hotel, offering panoramic views of La Meije. La Grave is a relaxing and laid-back ski resort and the nightlife reflects this, but you can still find the ubiquitous handful of bars.

Beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders have the Oisans Mountain; while the main draw is the Vallons de la Meije, from 3,560m, geared to experts, professionals and competent thrill-seekers alike. There are three slopes that top 12kms in length; five lifts have a capacity for 450 people per hour. You should hire a guide when exploring La Meije.

There is alternative skiing in nearby l'Alpe-d'Huez with a better option for novices. At Villar d'Arène, on the border of the Ecrins National Park, you will find long cross-country trails in a startlingly beautiful environment.

The ski season at La Grave resort runs from December to March, although the higher runs stay open until May. The most practical way to get to La Grave is to fly to Lyon, transfer by bus to the city and take another bus to Grenoble, from where buses go to the resort.