Samoëns is a beacon of authentic alpine charm and tradition. This picturesque ski resort and village, revered for its age-old stone structures, serves as a gateway to the expansive Grand Massif ski domain, offering a unique blend of history and world-class skiing.
As one of the most charming French ski resorts, Samoëns is perfect for those seeking both tradition and adventure. We've created this guide to make planning your Samoëns ski holiday easy. You'll learn everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best places to grab a bite, enjoy a drink, or relax with family and friends after a day on the slopes. At the end, you'll also find downloadable resort maps, along with some handy contact numbers and links.
Let's get started!
Samoëns is situated in the Haute-Savoie department, within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Pedestrian-only centre | Can get busy on weekends |
| Direct lift to the expansive Flaine/Les Carroz ski region | Access lift situated outside from the village centre |
| Very close to Geneva | Limited nightlife |
| Historic village with good accommodation options | Limited apres ski scene |
(Ref: Office de tourisme de Samoens)
The Samoëns 1600 area boasts beginner-friendly slopes that are easily accessible via the Grand Massif Express gondola. It's a fantastic spot to learn the basics, especially in the dedicated beginner zones at the gondola's top. Adding to the beginners' experience, you have the option to embark on the legendary Cascades run. This 14 km descent is perfect for those who prefer a less challenging yet visually stunning adventure. Starting from the summit of the Grandes Platières at 2500m, you'll ski down to the village of Sixt Fer à Cheval. The journey takes you through breathtaking high alpine pastures and ancient forests, offering one of the most picturesque skiing experiences in the Alps.
Intermediate skiers will find the Grand Massif ski area to be a true playground. With a broad spectrum of slopes ranging from tree-lined paths to vast open terrains, skiers can revel in runs like Cristal, Serpentine, and the Piste des Cascades, France's longest blue run. The area also offers an array of red runs, with Flaine's selections promising a delightful challenge.
Advanced skiers are in for exhilarating adventures. The panoramic views from the Grandes Platières gondola peak are a sight to behold, framing the majestic Mont Blanc. Thrill-seekers can take on the Grand Massif's steepest black run, the Diamant Noir, or venture to the Combe de Gers bowl for the challenging Onyx run.
For those with an appetite for off-piste excitement, the areas linking Samoëns to Les Carroz and Flaine are a must-visit. These zones offer higher altitude slopes and pristine off-piste opportunities, promising both challenge and enchantment.
Snowboarders have ample opportunities. From the powder-filled Combe de Gers bowl to the tree-lined runs at lower elevations, there's something for every boarder. While a dedicated snow park might be missing, the ski domain more than compensates with its 16 fun zones, including a boardercross course and a speed run.
The ski season in Samoëns for 2024/25 is expected to start on December 7th and run until April 21st. Obviously, opening and closing dates may vary slightly depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Samoëns this season, be sure to explore our Samoëns ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Samoëns offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 27 cm and 28 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.6 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 23 cm but occurs more frequently, averaging 3 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of March, traditionally the snowiest week in Samoëns, with an impressive 41 cm of snow over 3.6 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 12 cm of snow over 1.6 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 27 cm | 2.6 days |
| January | 28 cm | 2.9 days |
| February | 23 cm | 3.0 days |
| March | 24 cm | 2.7 days |
| April | 12 cm | 1.6 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Offering sandwiches, quiches, hot dogs, as well as coffees, beer and a great sunny outdoor seating area with excellent views over the pistes of Samoens, this mountain cafe is ideally located just oppisite the nursery slopes of Samoens 1600.
Located just behind the top station of the Grand Massif Express gondola, this restaurant offers stunning views over the Samoens valley.
Offering a simple but delicious menu, this restaurant is located in a quiet corner of the Samoens 1600 plateau.
Strategically placed just above the resort, it's not only a hotspot for après ski but also known for its high-quality a la carte lunches.
Situated close to the main square, this restaurant specializes in delicious local Savoyarde dishes. Due to its popularity, reservations are recommended.
Nestled halfway down the Cascades piste, it provides an exceptional dining experience but is only open when conditions are favorable.
Renowned for its authentic ambiance, though it's a bit removed from the town center.
A reliable choice known for its consistent quality and welcoming environment.
The go-to spot for those craving delectable Pizzas.
For non-skiers, or simply for off-slope fun, Samoëns offers:
The apres-ski and nightlife are somewhat limited, but there are still a few spots to enjoy a drink.
The Red Rock Café is one of Samoëns best bars offering a great selection of drinks, good music and a dancefloor for those who feel to party.
Informal and friendly, Covey's Pub is a quintessential Irish pub offering a wide selection of beers, Guinness, and whiskies at prices lower than many other resorts.
Usually packed, this is definitely the place to be for a good selection of wines and beers without breaking the bank
One of the best wine bars in Samoëns serving tasty tapas with very affordable prices
Download Samoëns resort map here
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