There is a lot to love about the summer season in Samoëns - sunshine, warm weather, stunning scenery, events, activities, adventures. Endless fun! But as it turns out, you don't actually have to venture very far to make the most of it. About a ten minute walk from Samoëns' town centre is the Lacs Aux Dames where the stunning surrounds of this lake and leisure spot make for the perfect outdoor playground.
You'll find a life guarded swimming area in the larger of the two lakes, perfect for cooling off on hot summer days! Open grassy areas surround the lake for sunbathing and picnics. More info
Situated on one acre of glorious lawns the complex boasts 2x 25m pools - one for beginners and one a designated sports pool - plus a paddling pool for little ones and a giant tube slide! All this within the beautiful surrounds of the Lacs Aux Dames, so you can swim while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains. The swimming pool also has its own café, serving lunch daily to both patrons of the pool and the public. More info
Two great restaurants can be found around the lakes of Samoens. Restaurant L'Entre 2 Lacs can be found, as its name suggests, between the two lakes, where you'll find great food, drinks, cocktails, ice creams, big comfy sofas, live music, and fantastic views over the lakes and towards the Criou mountain. Located near the outdoor swimming pool, Restaurant La Terrasse du Lac offers a traditional French experience with a good menu and a shady terrace perfect for hot summer days.
In keeping with the thrill-seeking theme, test your abilities on the high ropes course at Indiana Park, situated at the far end of the lake. It offers a variety of climbing and ropes courses for people of all ages. You’ll scale trees of heights of up to 14 metres and finish up with a flying fox ride back down to earth. But if that all sounds a little bit too adventurous for you, don't worry. At Indiana Park you can also enjoy disc golf, paintball or the laser game. More info
For something a little more relaxed how about a bit of golf? At this driving range with a difference you get to belt your balls out onto the lake. You can even refine your putting skills on the green. And if you’re more a spectator than an actual golfer then kick back and enjoy the view with an ice-cream and a drink from the refreshment stand. More info
Located just beyond the golf and children’s playground is Equita-Passio, where you can take your child on a self-led pony ride around the lake. Rides last between 15 to 30 minutes, but if you fancy riding a little longer - or if you don’t quite fit the age bracket - then head on down to Lac Bleu in Morillon where you'll find their second, larger stables. More info
There are six outdoor tennis courts at the Lacs Aux Dames. Equipment hire is available, as well as professional coaches, making Samoëns Tennis a truly great place to improve your skills while enjoying the mountain and lake scenery. More info
So there are plenty of organised activities to enjoy down at the Lacs Aux Dames, but you can pass just as glorious a day without spending a penny. Enjoy the wildflower garden, bring a ball and start a game of footy, or make use of the free badminton and basketball courts. Why not try stand up paddle boarding, or even fishing! Or simply take a relaxing stroll around the lake and through the nearby woods. The trails are ideal for a bike ride too, and in fact if you follow the Giffre River down from the Lacs Aux Dames, then cross the bridge and continue on through the woods, you’ll find yourself in no time at Lac Bleu in Morillon, where there are even more lake adventures to be had.