The Grand Massif consists of the resorts of Samoëns, Flaine, Morillon, Les Carroz and Sixt Fer à Cheval, often somewhat overlooked by the UK market, whilst the French know this is a well kept secret. Situated just over an hour from Geneva airport with 265 kilometres of pistes and wonderful skiing from the Flaine bowl at 1,600 metres to 2,500 metres altitude, to Samoëns rising from the heights of 1,600 metres. It is the ideal family ski area with its short transfer and wide range of green, blue and red runs.
Whilst not exclusively for families, it is perfectly matched for beginner and intermediate skiers who will love the runs found here, whilst advanced skiers will enjoy the wide range of runs readily available and easily accessed. Slopes are heavily skewed to a north-facing aspect meaning that snow lasts for a long time and the slopes are relatively quiet compared with the likes of the Three Valleys and Espace Killy – snowy unspoilt runs are another one of the charms of the Grand Massif.
Across Samoëns, Flaine and the other resorts of the Grand Massif there are ample options for non-skiers as well with snowshoeing, ice driving, ice rink, snowmobiling and dog sledding just some of the winter activities to try. There are also traditional French markets to enjoy and a charming atmosphere to absorb. Across the area there are a number of wonderful restaurants on the mountain in which to try local delights, with a highlight being Le Refuge de Lac de Gers on the edge of Lake Gers, if you ring ahead a snowmobile will meet you and tow you to the restaurant. Le Reposette is another popular option found near Samoëns with a warming fire and family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for a lunch or mid-morning coffee stop.
Samoëns is a traditionally French and historic resort with a great snow record and doorstep skiing on offer. The most exciting new addition to Samoëns in recent years is the hotel Club Med Grand Massif Samoëns Morillon. This four star property was purpose built for the Club Med brand and offers incredible doorstep skiing: strap on your skis from the boot room and 265 kilometres of wonderfully groomed runs await. This contemporary resort affords stunning vistas towards the Mont Blanc range and is the ideal family Club Med resort with baby corner, being on an all-inclusive basis means that ski lessons, childcare (for four years and up), ski pass and all meals and open-bar are included in one very reasonable price for a property of this standard.
