Easter and Spring Skiing in Samoëns and the Grand Massif

The first question we always get asked from guests considering skiing at Easter or spring is 'will there be any snow?' The answer has always been 'yes!'  The average snow depth on the upper slopes for the last 11 years has been an impressive 296cm for the first week of April and 289cm for the second week. With the lower slopes receiving an average of 74cm for the first week of April and 76cm for the second week.

Spring is a fantastic time of year for your skiing and snowboarding holidays to Samoëns and the Grand Massif. Our fantastic snow record means the area can generally offer skiing conditions which will rival the best in the Alps, right up to the end of the season.

The real advantage of spring in Samoëns is the snow-free valley floor which offers a unique contrast to the snow-laden mountains. This means there are a vast number of non-ski activities to enjoy away from the pistes, including hiking and mountain biking, as well as BBQs and sunbathing! The village itself is a hive of activity, especially during the Easter holidays, and the beautifully vivid colours of spring are something not to be missed.

If you fancy a skiing or snowboarding holiday to the Alps in Spring, then look no further than Samoëns and the Grand Massif. You won’t be disappointed.

Spring Skiing - The Snow

The Grand Massif may not be the highest altitude ski area, but it is one of the most snow-sure. In fact, it is one of only a few resorts in the Alps that consistently experience above-average snowfall. The snowy micro-climate is a result of our resort’s close proximity to Mont Blanc, the Alps’ highest mountain. Storms generally hit the Alps from the northwest, which means we are first in line for the snowfall they bring. But don’t take our word for it. To see just how good average snow depths are in Samoëns, check out this Historical Snow Report. You’ll be happy to see that average annual snow depths in March and April especially, have remained high over the past 11 years.

Another reason why the snow in the Grand Massif stays so good for so long is the resort’s large number of north-facing slopes, staying colder for longer. Don't worry it is still sunny when you are on the slopes, but the angle of the sun means the snow doesn't melt quickly here!  The lift company are constantly investing in changing the rocky mountain pistes to grassy ones ensuring skiing on thinner snow depths later into the Spring.

Spring Skiing - What to Expect

For the best skiing and snowboarding take advantage of the earlier lift-opening times in the Spring and hit the slopes first thing. To make the most of the fun spring conditions, the goal is to hit the pistes in the sweet spot when they are transforming from hard to soft. This means heading for the lower and sunnier slopes first, and then gradually moving higher during the day. The result is some of the most fun skiing conditions of the entire season!

After a few hours skiing and boarding enjoy a long and leisurely lunch on a sunny, slope-side terrace. Lose the layers and work on your tan! In Spring, the warmer temperature throughout the day means T-shirt skiing is on the cards. And Mums and Dads will agree that the warmer weather also makes for happier children. Ski school in the sun is always a hit with the little ones. Happy kids, happy parents!

The ski schools are also quieter during Spring. Many guests have commented that even during the Easter holiday period ski schools are much quieter than at other times in the season. Guests also love the shorter lift queues and enjoy the variety of skiing and snowboarding that springtime weather brings. 

Or why not pack up your skis and boards for the afternoon? Head down the mountain and make the most of what is truly a two-season holiday destination.

Spring in Samoëns - Off The Pistes

A spring skiing holiday is a winter and summer holiday rolled into one. The Grand Massif ski domain reaches heights of 2480m but the villages of Morillon, Samoëns and Sixt sit between 700-800m. And when Spring has sprung, down in the valley there is a vast array of other activities to enjoy. Imagine skiing in the morning and white-water rafting in the afternoon. Or starting your day with a mountain bike ride along the Giffre river or a game of tennis before heading up top with your snowboard. Or simply relaxing at any time of the day by the ‘Lacs aux Dames’, Samoëns’ gorgeous lakes with their surrounding parks and recreation facilities. Lac Bleu in Morillon is also ideal for a springtime chill. Enjoy an aperitif at lakeside bar, La Covagne. The high ropes course and adventure park at the lake officially opens mid-April, but when the weather’s good it’s been known to open sooner.

Samoëns has a truly fabulous springtime vibe – on and off the mountain. Toward the end of the ski season a number of special events begin to take place. Samoëns village often hosts live music events. Likewise, the mountain restaurants turn up the tunes and dust off their BBQs for special outdoor lunches.

Easter in Samoëns Village

Easter in Samoëns is a whole lot of fun. Celebrations usually kick off on Good Friday, with free games for all the family in the town square. Easter weekend is also the official start to the end of season stocktake sales. While not quite as grand as the summer sales, there are still some great bargains to be found - a new pair of skis at half price perhaps?

The biggest highlight of the Easter holidays, especially for families, would have to be the ‘Great Easter Egg Hunt!’ Visitors of all ages can participate in this fun event, which is held annually and in both weeks of the Easter holidays. To participate collect your ‘treasure’ map from the village square where your search begins. Decoding the riddles on your map will lead you to the secret stash of treats. The Samoëns tourist office assures us that hidden around the village is plenty enough for everyone. But for the best hunters, there are three giant chocolate eggs up for grabs!

Here at Alps Accommodation we often have some great last minute deals and availability for the Easter holiday period. We can help you find your perfect accommodation all throughout the Spring, and year-round. For more information, be sure to check our Special Offers page regularly, or contact us! Give us a call or drop us an email. We are always ready and eager to help you find your perfect holiday accommodation in Samoëns and the Grand Massif.