Eurostar Relaunches Direct Ski Train Service from London to the French Alps for Winter 2025-2026, Offering a Sustainable and Comfortable Travel Option

Published on December 22, 2025

As the winter season approaches, skiers and snowboarders eagerly plan their trips to the snow-capped peaks of the French Alps. However, the common challenge remains: how to travel comfortably and efficiently with bulky winter sports gear, avoid tedious airport procedures, and make the most of limited holiday time. Enter Eurostar’s Ski Train, a game-changing service designed to eliminate the usual travel stress and offer a seamless, relaxing, and sustainable way to reach the ski resorts of France.

In 2025, Eurostar is relaunching its Ski Train service, providing a direct rail connection from London St. Pancras International to the heart of the French Alps. With departure points in London and arrival stations in the Auvergne–Rhône-Alpes region, this service offers an exceptional travel experience for winter sports enthusiasts. Operating from 20 December 2025 until March 2026, the Eurostar Ski Train is set to become the go-to option for thousands of travellers seeking a more comfortable, eco-friendly alternative to flying.

In this article, we’ll delve deep into the workings of the Eurostar Ski Train, exploring how it operates, the benefits it brings to winter sports travellers, and the wider impact it will have on the travel and tourism industry. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-time snowboarder, this rail service will transform how you experience winter vacations in the French Alps.

How the Eurostar Ski Train Operates

Eurostar’s Ski Train is designed specifically for winter sports enthusiasts, making it easier than ever to travel with ski and snowboard gear. Traditionally, flying involves strict baggage limits and cumbersome transfers, which can often turn a long-anticipated ski holiday into a logistical nightmare. However, with Eurostar’s direct rail connection from London to the French Alps, these issues are eliminated.

The train departs London St Pancras International every Saturday at 09:01 AM, starting from 20 December 2025. The service will run throughout the winter season, concluding on 28 March 2026. The final destination is Bourg-Saint-Maurice, a key gateway to some of the most sought-after ski resorts in the region, including Les Trois Vallées, Paradiski, and La Plagne.

But it’s not just about reaching your destination quickly – it’s about comfort and convenience. With ample space for ski and snowboard equipment, the train allows passengers to travel without the stress of packing and worrying about excess baggage fees. This is a significant departure from air travel, where handling winter sports gear can often be a cumbersome and expensive process.

A Sustainable Travel Option for the Modern Traveller

One of the most appealing aspects of the Eurostar Ski Train is its focus on sustainability. With growing concerns over the environmental impact of air travel, the rail service offers an attractive eco-friendly alternative. Travelling by train produces significantly lower carbon emissions compared to flying, making it a responsible choice for those committed to reducing their environmental footprint.

Moreover, the direct rail connection eliminates the need for multiple transfers, offering a much more relaxed journey. Unlike air travel, where long waits at security and baggage claim can become exhausting, the Eurostar Ski Train ensures a seamless transition from city to slopes, all while providing ample space for rest and relaxation.

Ticket Prices and Demand for the Eurostar Ski Train

Eurostar’s Ski Train is undoubtedly a premium service, but the cost reflects the luxury of the travel experience. Ticket prices start at €287 for travel during December and January, with slightly lower fares available for February departures, starting at €244. While this pricing is on the higher end of the scale, it offers exceptional value when you consider the convenience, comfort, and environmental benefits of rail travel.

Despite the premium pricing, demand for the Eurostar Ski Train remains high. Tickets tend to sell out quickly, especially during the holiday season and peak ski months. As winter sports enthusiasts know, accommodation and travel during peak periods in the French Alps can be extremely costly, making the Eurostar Ski Train a highly competitive option for savvy travellers. Those planning to travel during the winter season should book in advance to secure their seats and avoid disappointment.

Key Stops on the Eurostar Ski Train Route

The Eurostar Ski Train offers direct access to several key destinations in the French Alps, making it easier than ever to reach some of the most renowned ski resorts in Europe. Along the route, the train will stop at the following stations:

• Chambéry: A charming town located at the foot of the Alps, offering access to nearby ski resorts like Les Arcs and La Rosière.
• Albertville: A historic town known for hosting the 1992 Winter Olympics, providing easy access to Les Trois Vallées, the world’s largest ski area.
• Moûtiers: A major gateway to Les Trois Vallées ski resorts, including Courchevel, Val Thorens, and Meribel.
• Aime-la-Plagne: Situated at the heart of the Paradiski ski area, offering a direct connection to La Plagne.
• Landry: Another convenient stop for those looking to access the La Plagne and Paradiski resorts.

With the Eurostar Ski Train, passengers can skip the hassle of multiple transfers and enjoy direct access to the slopes in no time.

Comfort and Amenities on Board the Ski Train

When it comes to comfort, the Eurostar Ski Train does not disappoint. The train is designed to ensure that passengers have everything they need to make their journey as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. This includes:

• Spacious seating: Eurostar’s trains are equipped with wide, comfortable seats that offer plenty of legroom, perfect for relaxing during the journey.
• Onboard services: Passengers can enjoy various food and drink options, as well as entertainment during the ride.
• Winter sports equipment: The train has ample space for skis, snowboards, and other winter sports equipment, making it an ideal choice for skiers and snowboarders looking to avoid the usual hassles of flying.

The train’s focus on providing a relaxed environment ensures that travellers arrive at their ski destinations feeling refreshed and ready to hit the slopes.

Economic and Tourism Impact of the Eurostar Ski Train

The return of the Eurostar Ski Train is a significant development for the tourism and travel industry, both in the UK and across Europe. With growing concerns over the environmental impact of air travel, rail services like the Ski Train are becoming an increasingly popular choice for leisure travel. By offering a direct, comfortable, and eco-friendly alternative to flying, Eurostar is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable travel for winter sports enthusiasts.

In addition to its environmental benefits, the Eurostar Ski Train will also have a positive impact on the local economies of the French Alps. The convenience of direct rail access will encourage more visitors to explore the region, boosting the tourism industry and local businesses.

Conclusion: The Future of Winter Travel in Europe

Eurostar’s Ski Train service represents a revolutionary shift in how people travel to the French Alps. By providing a direct, sustainable, and comfortable rail service, Eurostar is transforming the way skiers and snowboarders approach winter holidays in Europe. With its convenient stops, ample space for winter sports equipment, and eco-friendly credentials, the Eurostar Ski Train offers a compelling alternative to traditional air travel.

As demand for sustainable travel options continues to rise, services like the Eurostar Ski Train are likely to become more prevalent in the future. For winter sports enthusiasts looking for a stress-free, comfortable way to reach the slopes, Eurostar’s Ski Train is undoubtedly the way to go.