The city of Briancon is a good place to stay in for an Alpine vacation.
It is one of the 2013 winter vacation destinations offered by Voyages SNCF.
For example, in March you can take night train (Intercite de Nuit) from Paris Austerlitz at 9:22 pm on Tuesday the 12 and arrive next morning at 8:30 am in Briancon for 42 Euros.
Return on Monday, March 18 also by night train leaving Briancon at 8:30 pm and you will be back in Paris at 7:37 am, refreshed and in time to head for work. Fare for return trip is 65 Euros.
Total cost of trip: 107 Euros.
On both legs of the trip you get a reclyning seat in second class.
For those planning a visit in April, there are currently fares as low as 33 Euros (each way).
Briancon is a UN World Heritage site and is also known as Europe's highest town. Old town was built by Vauban.
You could then book your stay at Hotel Ibis Briancon- Serre Chevalier (Room rates start at 70 Euros, Breakfast not Included) close to the slopes.
(* Briancon logo from Tourisme Briancon Facebook Page)