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5 reasons to ski in Samoens
Read why skiers and non-skiers alike love this traditional village resort.
Authentic village charm and access to large ski area
Samoëns is a picturesque alpine village offering access to the vast Grand Massif ski area, combining authentic charm with extensive skiing for all levels.
Accommodation ranges from boutique apartments and premium residences to traditional self-catered chalets and family-run hotels. Many properties are centrally located or close to the gondola, offering comfort, flexibility and wellness facilities, making Samoëns ideal for families, couples and groups seeking both atmosphere and convenience.
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Samoëns Quick Facts
- Ski area: Grand Massif
- Resort height: 720m, ski from 1600m
- Resort top height: 2480m
- Km piste: 265
- Distance from Calais: 548 miles (7hrs 55)
- Lift pass: ££££
- No. of slopes: 139
- Green slopes: 25
- Blue slopes: 59
- Red slopes: 44
- Black slopes: 11
-
Beginners:
★ ★ ★ ★
-
Intermediate:
★ ★ ★ ★
-
Expert:
★ ★ ★
-
Boarders:
★ ★ ★
-
Freeride:
★ ★ ★ ★
Highlights
Access to Grand Massif ski area with varied terrain
Traditional atmosphere in the heart of the village with excellent restaurants and local charm
Wide range of accommodation from luxury apartments to chalets
Large beginner ski area ideal for families and first-time skiers
Spa facilities and wellness areas across many properties
Easy access from Geneva, by car, or by train to Cluses
Travel options
Eurotunnel LeShuttle
All our ski holidays packages include a return standard Eurotunnel LeShuttle crossing.
included
Ferry crossings
Ferry crossings can be arranged on request as an alternative travel option to our standard return Eurotunnel Le Shuttle crossing.
bookable
Private transfers
We can help you get from your arrival airport or train station to your resort.
bookable
Trains to the French Alps
Train travel to the French Alps is a convenient, low-stress alternative to flying or driving.
bookable
Eurotunnel LeShuttle
All our ski holidays packages include a return standard Eurotunnel LeShuttle crossing.
included
Ferry crossings
Ferry crossings can be arranged on request as an alternative travel option to our standard return Eurotunnel Le Shuttle crossing.
bookable
Private transfers
We can help you get from your arrival airport or train station to your resort.
bookable
Trains to the French Alps
Train travel to the French Alps is a convenient, low-stress alternative to flying or driving.
bookable
More Ski Services
More Ski Services
We pride ourselves on going the extra mile.
We pride ourselves on going the extra mile, from helping you navigate ski school options to offering tailored advice on the best resorts and accommodation.
Accommodation
Grand Massif/Flaine - SAMOËNS
Alexane
Star rating:
Sleeps: 1 - 8
Type: Self Catered
Accommodation: Apartments
- 150m from resort centre
- Indoor heated pool & spa facilities
Grand Massif/Flaine - SAMOËNS
Les Chalets de Layssia
Star rating:
Sleeps: 1 - 10
Type: Self Catered
Accommodation: Apartments
- Heart of the village
- Indoor pool & spa facilities
- Spacious residence lounge area with open fireplace
Grand Massif/Flaine - SAMOËNS
La Reine des Pres
Star rating:
Sleeps: 1 - 10
Type: Self Catered
Accommodation: Apartments
- 5 minute walk from main square
- Indoor heated pool & spa facilities
- Close to Grand Massif Express gondola
Grand Massif/Flaine - SAMOËNS
Rose apartments
Star rating:
Sleeps: 1 - 6
Type: Self Catered
Accommodation: Apartments
- Outdoor hot tub
- Very spacious with en-suite bedrooms
- Walking distance to the cable car & village centre
SAMOËNS
La Residence Club Samoens Village
Star rating:
Sleeps: 1 - 10
Type: Self Catered
Accommodation: Apartments
- Indoor heated pool & spa facilities
- Kids clubs
Grand Massif/Flaine - SAMOËNS
Chalet Arnica
Star rating:
Sleeps: 1 - 12
Type: Self Catered
Accommodation: Chalet
- Superb chalet with sunny terrace
- Underfloor heating & fireplace
- Walking distance from the heart of the village
Grand Massif/Flaine - SAMOËNS
Chalet La Ferme de Fontany
Star rating:
Sleeps: 1 - 12
Type: Self Catered
Accommodation: Chalet
- Very spacious 280m2 floor space
- All en-suite bedrooms
- Use of pool & spa facilities at nearby hotel
Grand Massif/Flaine - SAMOËNS
Suites d’Alexane Hotel & Spa
Star rating:
Sleeps: 1 - 6
Type: Room Only
Accommodation: Hotel
- 150m from the resort centre
- Indoor heated pool & spa facilities
Grand Massif/Flaine - SAMOËNS
Neige et Roc (hotel & apartments)
Star rating:
Sleeps: 1 - 5
Type: Self Catered
Accommodation: Hotel & Apartments
- Indoor heated pool & spa facilities
- Convenient location: village atmosphere & ski bus stop at hotel
- Hotel & apartments
Peak Retreats has defended its position as champion [Best Ski Operator in the Telegraph Travel Awards]… The winners of this year’s awards showcased stellar commitment to delivery memorable, and valuable, holidays in the mountains…
Samoëns is one of my favourite resorts, it’s magical in winter. The combination of its lively village and brilliant skiing means it has something for everyone and being in the Grand Massif, France’s fourth largest ski area, it has a good mix of runs for all abilities.
There are two gondolas to take you up to the skiing at Samoëns 1600 in around 8 minutes, and the views on the ride up are stunning!
The combination of its lively village and brilliant skiing means it has something for everyone. Don't miss Tiffanie's patisserie, it's out of this world!
Samoëns is a picture-perfect family ski destination, where you feel part of village life. We loved the weekly market every Wednesday.
A super first experience with Peak Retreats. We wanted a French experience. Some of the Samoens runs were excellent and more than enough for two intermediate skiers. Plenty of restaurants and the lifts were excellent. All in all a very good customer experience.
Enjoyed Samoëns and Les Chalets de Layssia. Town absolutely beautiful and shops excellent.
Enjoyed Samoëns and Les Chalets de Layssia. Very modern, lots of space and great views. Enjoyed the swimming pool etc... we used pool etc. every evening and thought water temperature was fine and pool area very modern and excellent. Town absolutely beautiful and shops excellent. Enjoyed 10 minute walk to the gondola every day.
I've been to the Samoëns resort at least five times previously and always look forward to going back. You can easily ski to four other resorts including Morillon, Sixt-Fer-à -Cheval, Les Carroz and Flaine so every day is different. Samoëns is a lovely mountain village with a variety of shops, bars and restaurants so there is enough to keep non-skiers entertained.
I've been to the Samoëns resort at least five times previously and always look forward to going back... Samoëns is a lovely mountain village with a variety of shops, bars and restaurants so there is enough to keep non-skiers entertained. I stayed in Les Chalets de Layssia accommodation and would highly recommend it for the spa facilities and friendliness of staff. Â
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The Alexane apartments were the best accommodation we have ever stayed in and the free access to the delightful pool and jacuzzi really made our holiday special as it was a great way for the whole family to relax together after a day on the slopes and it saved my legs from a lot of aches and pains which made the skiing even more enjoyable. Many thanks!
FAQs
Frequently asked questions about Samoëns
What types of accommodation are available in Samoëns?
Accommodation in Samoëns includes a wide range of options, from self-catered apartments and chalets to hotel stays. Residences such as Alexane, Les Chalets de Layssia and La Reine des Prés offer high-quality apartments, while self-catered chalets and hotels provide additional flexibility. This variety ensures there is something suitable for couples, families and larger groups.
Which accommodation in Samoëns is best located?
Many properties offer excellent locations near the village centre or close to the gondola access to the skiing. La Reine des Prés is within walking distance of lifts and shops, while Les Chalets de Layssia and Alexane sit right in the village centre with easy access to the resort shuttle bus.
Which accommodation in Samoëns has spa facilities?
Several residences feature excellent wellness areas. Alexane, Les Chalets de Layssia and La Reine des Prés all include indoor pools, saunas and steam rooms. They can also organise massages and spa treatments, making them ideal for relaxation after skiing.
Which accommodation in Samoëns is best for families?
Family-friendly options include La Residence Club Samoens Village, which offers kids clubs and entertainment.
Other self-catered residences like the Chalets de Layssia and Alexane offer spacious apartments, and alongside their indoor pools they have a separate baby pool. Alexane also has a games room for older children.
Which accommodation in Samoëns is best for groups?
Self-catered chalets such as Chalet Arnica and Chalet La Ferme de Fontany are ideal for groups, offering multiple bedrooms and communal living areas. Larger apartments across the resort also accommodate groups comfortably.
Which accommodation in Samoëns is best for luxury stays?
Alexane and Suites d’Alexane Hotel & Spa offer a more premium experience, with high-end interiors, concierge services and extensive spa facilities. These are ideal for those seeking a more refined stay.
What makes Samoëns different from other resorts?
Its authentic village charm, quaint narrow streets, historic covered market hall and botanical garden combined with access to a large ski area makes it special. It offers a quieter, more traditional alternative to purpose-built resorts without compromising on skiing.
Does Samoëns have ski-in/ski-out accommodation?
Accommodation is not ski-in/ski-out as the skiing starts at 1600m and is reached by one of two gondolas. However, many properties are within walking distance of lifts or connected via shuttle buses, making access straightforward.
What type of lift pass is available?
Lift passes cover the Grand Massif ski area, offering access to around 265km of pistes. Lift passes can be pre-booked with us and delivered to you before travel, allowing you to go straight to the lifts and avoid queues on arrival.
What ski school do you recommend?
We recommend ESF Samoëns, offering lessons for children and adults from beginner to advanced levels. Group and private lessons can be pre-booked with us. Early booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak weeks.
What should I know about ski essentials in Samoëns?
Booking equipment, lift passes and lessons in advance is important, especially during peak periods when availability may be limited. Prices can fluctuate, but pre-booking helps secure rates and ensures a smooth start to your ski holiday.
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