Preparing for your winter mountain holiday may seem overwhelming, especially if it is your first time. With a combined total of over 50 years experience in ski holidays, the Samoens' valley, and all things mountainous, our team has plenty of experience at Alps Accommodation HQ. Some would say we're old. Either way, we want to share this experience to help guests get the most from their visit to the beautiful Grand Massif area.
So you've decided to visit the area in winter... Our first 'Top Tips' is aimed at helping you as you prepare for your holiday.
Physical preparation - Skiing is a huge amount of fun, but it's also physically demanding. In the lead up to your ski holiday think about tweaking your gym routine, doing a few exercises at home, or spending a few hours at a snow dome or dry ski slope. It may just help you avoid the eye watering thigh burn of that last run down!
Book the right accommodation - With so many options out there, it can seem daunting trying to find the right accommodation. It just so happens that the Alps Accommodation team know all the properties very well and can help with all group sizes and a selection of tastes and budgets! We live here year round, so if you are looking for advice, then get in touch. We're here to help you find the right chalet or apartment, to suit your needs.
Order discounted ski passes - Order your ski passes in advance through Alps Accommodation for a 5-10% discount, and they'll be waiting for you at your property when you arrive.
Arrival day - Save yourself some hassle both travelling and in resort, and maybe even some money, by considering arriving on a Friday or Sunday rather than the usual Saturday. We have a range of properties available for flexible arrival and departure days.
Car hire - If you decide to hire a car from Geneva, it is a simple 1 hour journey to the valley. For ease we recommend hiring a car from the Swiss side of Geneva airport. Finding the French side of the airport on your return can be tricky, and the rental cars don't always include a Swiss motorway pass. Check out our car hire partner here. Make sure you check with the car hire company about taking the car to France.
Airport Transfers - If you prefer to have a car free holiday, you can book a shared or private airport transfer and enjoy a scenic journey to the Samoens area. Our great selection of village centre properties, or those on the ski bus routes means a car is not a necessity.
Ski boots - Our partner rental shops can provide you with some great equipment, but as experienced skiers ourselves we think it's definitely worth investing in your own ski boots, fitted by a good boot fitter. They're likely to be more comfortable, and might even help you ski better!
Ski lessons & equipment hire - Samoens has three great ski schools who all offer slightly different levels and options, with private and group lessons available. Contact them before you arrive and for Alps Accommodation guests, there are discounts available. The same applies to equipment rental shops, with some offering greater discounts for advance bookings. SkiHire2U will come to your property to fit ski/snowboard equipment, meaning you can get fitted with a glass of wine in hand! Pre-booking your equipment and ski lessons is highly recommended to not only ensure availability, but it also means one less thing to do on arrival!
First night catering - Take some of the stress out of arrival day by ordering a delicious, home delivered meal from one of our flexible catering partners.
Weather - Keeping an eye on the weather in the lead up to your holiday is all part of the fun, and helps plan for what you might need to bring/wear. We use Snow-Forecast and Chamonix Meteo who offer regular updates.
Restaurants - If you like eating out and want to sample some of the excellent local restaurants, it is a great idea to book your restaurants in advance, particularly if you are part of a larger group, or are visiting during peak weeks.
We hope you have found these tips useful. Coming next.... What to pack for your winter holiday!
