February in La Plagne: What's on and weather

There is still regular snowfall and very much like January the average daily temperatures generally fall between a high of -3ºC and a low of -12ºC, with around just over five hours of sunshine. You can usually expect fairly mixed weather – fresh snow intermingled with often sunny days, but it's still very much a time for wearing a thermal under-layer.

February almost always sees fresh snow – and often in considerable quantities too, averaging 12 days over the month – so it’s a very good time to take a trip out here if you’re looking for that ‘best of both worlds’ scenario.

February is a popular month for families so the slopes are noticeably busier as soon as the four-week French holidays begin. With so much of the area open, queues will be less of a problem though you’re still well-advised to get up and out early to avoid the usual bottlenecks. Fortunately, the ski area is so vast, that even in high season you can find quiet slopes and minimal lift queues. Here are our insider's top tips for the school holidays:

1. Group lessons are the best option in the busy period, as private lessons are almost impossible to book - unless you got in early. Make sure to get your ski and snowboard lessons booked well in advance to avoid disappointment.
2. If you're not in ski school, be an early bird. Arrive at the lifts before they open so that you get up and away before the ski school classes set out around 09:15.
3. Ski over lunchtime when the slopes are calmer (between 12:00 and 14:00) whilst the French take a leisurely lunch break.
4. Avoid the queues and make the most of your time in the mountains by pre-booking your lunch reservation - some restaurants offer a Click & Collect service.  
5. Seek out the peripheral areas. Seek out the peripheral areas. Avoid La Plagne’s busiest hubs, especially Bellecôte and Plagne Centre after 10:00, as lift queues can be long. Bergerie and Arpette lifts are notoriously crowded and serve congested runs. For quieter skiing, head to lower-traffic areas like Champagny, Montalbert, or Montchavin (though Montchavin can get busy with inter-resort traffic).
6. Get off-piste. Competent off-piste skiers can book a local mountain guide and explore the vast off-piste areas in the valley or even go touring to find complete solitude in the backcountry.

If, like most people, you like to follow several hours of exercise with several hours of drinking, you can hit up any of a number of local après-ski sessions. Down at the bottom of the slopes, you'll find a range of eateries and bars offering great music, delicious food and happy hours.

For late-night entertainment, the clubs hold special nights on most days of the week.

Family fun

February is synonymous with school holidays. As hundreds of children and their families descend on the pistes, La Plagne puts on a show for them. There are lots of activities to keep the little ones entertained on and off the mountain. And don't forget to check out the torchlit descent.

You can learn to ice climb, go skating at one of the rinks, or try your luck on the bobsleigh or skeleton tracks. You can also head up the mountain for some touring with one of the activity companies or head to the fun slope which is open daily and fun for all ages. 

In terms of activities and events through February, there is of course Valentine's Day, and for a place eat take your pick - La Plagne is full of great gourmet options. If you are after some entertainment while you eat, many places will put on live music, or you could head out after your dinner. Aside from the onec a year day of romance, there will be sporting events, live music shows, and more. Keep an eye on the events calendar for what's on where and what not to miss. 

While February is probably the busiest month in La Plagne, there should be more than enough space for everyone. Follow the tips above and you should be able to avoid the worst of the queues and bottlenecks and find yourself riding great snow under often-sunny skies – the perfect mix. Bon ski!