Samoëns

Samoëns is a charming alpine village with a history stretching back centuries, offering direct access to the Grand Massif ski area — France’s fourth largest linked ski domain, with 265 km of pistes shared between Flaine, Les Carroz, Morillon, and Sixt.

Set at 720 m, Samoëns is lower than many French ski bases, but thanks to the Grand Massif Express gondola, skiers are whisked up to Samoëns 1600 in just eight minutes, from where the full ski area opens out. The village itself is a French national heritage site, with cobbled streets, a medieval square, stone buildings, and a lively weekly market. It’s one of the few ski bases that feels like a real alpine town first, and a ski resort second.

Samoëns is popular with families and couples who value authenticity and atmosphere, but it’s also a fantastic base for skiers of all levels looking to enjoy the variety and snow reliability of the Grand Massif.

Skiing & Snowboarding

From the top of the Grand Massif Express, skiers enter the heart of the Grand Massif, with terrain ranging from gentle beginner zones to challenging blacks.

• Beginners: Samoëns 1600 has excellent nursery areas and greens, safely separated from main pistes. Wide, confidence-building slopes make progression easy. The village’s ski schools are well regarded for families and first-timers.

• Intermediates: Intermediates are spoiled here. Long blues and reds weave through forests and open bowls, with favourites like Marmotte and Dahu. Scenic routes link over to Morillon and Les Carroz, while the connection to Flaine opens up high, wide pistes with spectacular Mont Blanc views.

• Experts: The Gers Bowl above Flaine is legendary for its steep powder terrain, while the blacks from Tête des Saix and Combe de Gers offer real challenges. Off-piste opportunities are excellent with a guide, and freeriders can find untracked snow long after storms.

• Freestylers: The area has several snowparks and boardercross courses, with the main park located in Flaine. Natural terrain across the Grand Massif also encourages freestyle play.

The Grand Massif’s altitude — up to 2,500 m — and its north-facing slopes ensure strong snow reliability, even when lower areas are thin.

Ski Lift Passes

Samoëns’ passes are integrated into the Grand Massif system.

• Samoëns local area (part of 145 km with Morillon, Les Carroz, Sixt): ~€52/day | ~€260 for 6 days
• Grand Massif full area (265 km): ~€63/day | ~€315 for 6 days
• Child (5–15): ~25% reduction
• Under 5s: Free

Deals:

• Family and group passes available.
• Reduced beginner passes for nursery lifts.

Details at the Grand Massif ski pass page.

Resort & Infrastructure

Samoëns is split between the historic village and the ski area above at Samoëns 1600.

• The Grand Massif Express gondola links the two in 8 minutes.

• Once at 1600, high-speed chairs and gondolas fan out into the Grand Massif network.

• The Tête des Saix sector acts as the central hub, linking Flaine, Les Carroz, and Morillon.

Snow reliability is excellent in the upper areas thanks to altitude and snowmaking. The lift system has been steadily modernised, though at peak weeks bottlenecks can occur at key junctions.

The village itself is pedestrian-friendly in parts, with a beautiful main square, 13th-century church, and traditional shops, giving it a genuine alpine charm rarely found in major ski domains.

Accommodation

Samoëns offers a wide choice of accommodation, much of it chalet-style and in keeping with the historic character.

• Budget: Self-catered apartments and guesthouses in and around the village.
• Mid-Range: Family-run hotels and chalet residences, often with half-board options.
• Luxury: Boutique chalets and residences such as Les Suites d’Alexane with spa facilities and stylish interiors.

Options range from simple to upscale, but all tend to lean towards charm and authenticity rather than glitz. Browse via the official Samoëns accommodation search.

Dining & Après

Dining in Samoëns is excellent, with a focus on local produce and traditional Savoyard cuisine. Restaurants like La Table de Fifine and Le Monde à l’Envers are local favourites, while mountain huts across the Grand Massif offer hearty alpine fare with panoramic terraces.

Après-ski in Samoëns is relaxed compared to larger resorts. Covey’s Irish Pub and Bar Le Savoie provide lively meeting spots, while cosy wine bars and cafés keep the evenings sociable. It’s more about atmosphere than all-night parties — ideal for families and couples.

Non-Skiing Activities

Samoëns has plenty to offer non-skiers, thanks to its role as a real alpine town.

• Weekly markets and artisan shops in the village.
• Ice skating at the local rink.
• Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails.
• The Septimontains Leisure Centre with wellness, spa, and swimming pool.
• Day trips to nearby Annecy or Chamonix for sightseeing and shopping.

Village Character & Access

Samoëns stands out because it is a true alpine village, not a purpose-built resort. Its medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and lively market square give it unique charm. Unlike many ski bases, it has a year-round community, which means a more authentic experience for visitors.

How to get there from the UK:

• By air: Geneva Airport is just over 1 hr away.
• By train: Eurostar/TGV to Cluses, then 20 min transfer.
• By car: Around 8 hrs 30 mins from Calais.

InTheSnow Verdict

Samoëns offers a rare blend: authentic alpine heritage with big-area skiing. The Grand Massif provides terrain for all levels, from gentle family zones to steep powder bowls, while the village itself delivers atmosphere, charm, and culture.

It’s not for those seeking rowdy nightlife or cutting-edge luxury, but for families, couples, and skiers who want a genuine French alpine experience with serious skiing on the doorstep, Samoëns is one of the best-kept secrets in the French Alps.