The deep valleys and soaring snow-covered peaks of the Alps border France, Switzerland and Italy and offer a challenge to skiers and snowboarders throughout the winter months. Downhill skiing was established here towards the end of the 19th century by the English, and since then an increasing number of skiers and snowboarders have been attracted to the first-rate resorts. French resorts may not be as picturesque as those in Switzerland and Austria but they give access to some of the best and most extensive skiing in the world; by most standards they are high, mostly between 6,562ft and 9,843ft (2,000m and 3,000m), and have reliable snow. The ski season runs from late November to April and is busiest during the Christmas and Easter holidays.