Winter in Samoëns is a magical time of year. As the snow begins to fall, the valley transforms into a winter wonderland, with the French Alps providing a stunning backdrop. Well known for the world class skiing of the Grand Massif, the historic villages and numerous non-ski attractions mean everyone can enjoy a wonderful Alpine winter holiday in magnificent surroundings.
As one of the top ski areas in Europe, the Grand Massif ski area should need no introduction. 139 pistes, 62 lifts, 5 villages, fantastic skiing for absolutely every level, and unrivaled views of the Mont Blanc. Long cruisy green pistes, wide and fast blues and reds, challenging blacks, fantastic off piste, tree lined, high alpine, snowparks, and the 14km Cascades piste, one of the longest in Europe!
Visit our Grand Massif page.
One of the unique characteristics of Samoëns and the valley is the unique bounty of non-ski attractions which make it a top winter holiday destination without ever setting foot on a ski piste.
Take a stroll through the snowy, historic streets of charming Samoëns, Morillon, or Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval. Enjoy a croissant and a coffee in Samoëns square in front of the medieval church and iconic Criou mountain. Enjoy numerous excellent restaurants, local cuisine, delicious bakeries, boutique shops and weekly markets of these real, working villages.
Take in the magnificent natural surroundings, and numerous non-ski activities including snow-shoeing, ice-skating, spas and much more. Take the free bus to the Col de Joux Plane or Cirque du Fer-a-Cheval and enjoy marked walks, frozen waterfalls, and unforgettable views. Take the Grand Massif Express telecabine up to Samoëns for lunch in a high altitude mountain restaurant.
Enjoy some of the many winter events which including ice hockey matches, carnivals, torch light displays, fireworks, or a night time descent of a ski piste on a sledge!
Visit our Non-Ski Activities page.
The area is a firm favourite with families for a very good reason! In the ski area, you’ll find an ideal combination of great nursery areas and beginner pistes, and several excellent ski schools. Off the pistes, the ice rink in Samoëns is always a bit hit, as are the sledging areas on the Col de Joux Plane and Cirque-de-Fer-a-Cheval! Daily family entertainment is organised around Samoëns village, perfectly suited to families.
Visit our Winter Families page.
Christmas in Samoëns is an unforgettable experience as the village is transformed into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights and festive decorations making it feel like a scene straight out of a fairytale! Crowds gather in the village centre around the Christmas Village, drinking vin chaud, listening to live music, enjoying torch light displays and fireworks, meeting father Christmas and his elves! It’s an experience not to be missed!
Visit our Christmas and New Year page.
The final month of the ski season, including the Easter school holiday period, can easily be overlooked, yet offers so much. You’ll generally find great skiing conditions, and great weather allowing for long lunches on sunny terraces with live music. The snow-free valley floor allows for more activities commonly associated with summer, including hiking, mountain biking, and even rafting and afternoon BBQs! It is undoubtedly the best time for part-time skiers, or groups/families with mixed interests!
Visit our April and Spring page.
Our guide to après-ski in Samoëns, Morillon and the Haut-Giffre valley. The best a après-ski bars and activities.
The ski/snowboard rental shops of Samoëns - Discounted ski hire for Alps Accommdodation clients
Discover the best ski touring routes in Samoëns and the Grand Massif
Discover the numerous non-ski activities available in Samoens, Morillon and the Haut-Giffre valley.
Everything you need to know about cross-country skiing in Samoëns. Morillon and Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval
Information for families bringing children to Samoëns and the Grand Massif in Winter
Discover the Grand Massif ski area, consisting of the ski areas of Samoëns, Morillon, Les Carroz, Flaine, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval