Les Carroz d'Arâches

• Access to a large, varied ski area, the Grand Massif with 80% of north-facing slopes

• Particularly good for beginners and intermediates

• Tree-lined slopes for shelter and better visibility in poor weather

Beginners

Les Carroz is a reassuring place to start skiing. Gentle nursery slopes in the village and easy-access areas and runs including the Mollachets and Coin Coin green runs, at the top of the Kédeuze gondola give you space to learn without pressure.

Progression feels natural, with wide pistes and plenty of easy blue runs to move onto. These wind through the forest back to the gondola. It’s a resort where beginners can build confidence at their own pace, without feeling rushed.

Intermediates

Intermediates will love Les Carroz. The Grand Massif offers huge variety, with long blue and red runs linking different areas together.

Skiing here often feels like a journey — from wide open slopes to scenic forest descents. Routes between Morillon and Samoëns offer quieter, more peaceful skiing, while longer runs give you chance to build rhythm and confidence.

One slope we think shouldn’t be missed is the 14km long Cascades run. It starts at the top of the ski area above Flaine and winds down through stunning landscapes and through forested sections to Sixt Fer à Cheval. It’s the longest run in the Grand Massif. As it borders a nature reserve then you might see mountain goats or ibex on your way down. At the bottom, you’ll need to take a shuttle bus to Samoëns to get the lifts back to Les Carroz – the sense of achievement is more than worth it! Time it right and grab lunch in the pretty village centre of Samoëns before you head back.

Advanced

Advanced skiers will find more challenge across the wider Grand Massif, particularly in Flaine, where steeper terrain and more demanding runs come into play but the pistes of the Grand Massif in general aren’t as geared towards experts as some other areas.

However, you can still mix more technical skiing with relaxed cruising days, creating a well-balanced experience across the week.

Conditions and terrain

One of the standout features of Les Carroz is its versatility in different conditions. Tree-lined runs above the village provide shelter and good visibility when the weather turns, while higher areas offer more open terrain.

To head back to the village if you’re run out of steam, it’s nice to know that there is a gondola option to get home. Otherwise, there are a series of blue pistes ending with Combe that take you down to the village, or the red Timalets piste. Early or late in the season, these lower runs back to the village may not be open.

• Plenty to do beyond skiing, with options for all ages

• Strong family focus with a relaxed pace

• Great balance between activity and relaxation

Relaxation and wellness

After a day on the slopes, many visitors head straight to the wellness facilities. Pools, hot tubs and steam rooms at your accommodation offer the perfect way to unwind, especially on colder evenings. The resort also has a superb pool and spa complex with a 24m x 12m outdoor pool.

It’s the kind of routine that quickly becomes part of the holiday — ski, relax, and reset for the next day.

Exploring the mountains differently

Snowshoeing and walking trails give you a chance to slow things down and experience the mountain from a different perspective. A simple afternoon exploring quieter areas or stopping at a mountain restaurant can become a highlight of the trip.

Family-friendly experiences

Les Carroz is designed with families in mind. From easy-to-access slopes to a wide choice of activities, from dog-sledding, to skating on the outdoor ice rink and riding the mountain coaster (a toboggan on rails where you’re in charge of the brakes!). The resort also has a bowling alley and a cosy cinema, which had some screenings in English (with French subtitles) when one of our team was there.

It’s a resort where different generations can enjoy the mountains together, each at their own pace.

• Great choice of restaurants with a welcoming, local feel

• Relaxed après-ski with a sociable, friendly atmosphere

• Easy for self-catered stays with shops close to hand

Restaurants and mountain dining

Dining is one of the highlights in Les Carroz, with a mix of cosy restaurants and welcoming mountain spots. From traditional Savoyard dishes to relaxed lunches on the slopes, there’s plenty of choice.

Many visitors find themselves returning to favourite restaurants, drawn back by great food and friendly service.

Après-ski and evenings

Après-ski is relaxed but sociable. Bars around the village square, like Le Baratin, fill with skiers at the end of the day, offering a lively but comfortable atmosphere rather than a full party scene.

Everyday convenience

For self-catered stays, local shops and bakeries make things easy. Fresh bread deliveries, small supermarkets nearby and everything within walking distance mean you can enjoy both flexibility and convenience.