Samoëns Gets Ready For Winter

Samoëns is one of the true authentic mountain villages, only 1 hour from Geneva airport and is part of the 5th largest linked ski areas in France. A ski holiday in Samoëns offers more than just skiing and the village is the perfect place for a family holiday. 

Imagine a mountain village in the heart of a wide valley, surroun ded by alpine pastures in the summer and snow-capped peaks reaching 2,500 meters in the winter, with access to the 5th largest ski area in France! 

WHAT’S NEW

• Chalet Montplaisir: Perched at an altitude of 1,400 meters, Chalet Montplaisir offers a retreat nestled in the heart of nature, accessible only by snowshoes or ski touring. A former alpine chalet renovated in an ecological spirit, it accommodates up to 10 people, without mobile network, conducive to disconnection. Optional Afghan walking or cold yoga sessions can be offered on site. A former alpine chalet renovated in an ecological and warm spirit, it accommodates up to 10 people in an authentic setting, without mobile network, conducive to disconnection. The chalet has 120 m2 on three levels, with three bedrooms, a dormitory, two bathrooms and a large living room facing south, opening onto the mountain. Modern comforts rub shoulders with respect for the environment: spring water, photovoltaic panels, wood-burning stove heating. Optional Afghan walking or cold yoga sessions can be offered on site, for a rejuvenating stay with family or friends.
• Botanical Garden in Winter: The Samoëns Botanical Garden, a ‘Remarkable Garden of France’ since 1996 and candidate for classification as a historical monument, now opens its doors in winter. The opportunity to discover a panoramic view of the village, the ruins of the Tornalta castle and an abundance of plants.
• Ski Touring and Paragliding: The sons of two famous French free flight pioneers offer thrill-seekers a unique combo: ski touring and tandem paragliding. Michel Jardin (founder of one of the first hang-gliding schools in 1973), and Paul Leroy, (a pioneering paraglider in the valley) - Julien and Thomas grew up in the air and on the slopes of Haut- Giffre. Today, they offer thrill-seekers a unique combo: ski touring and tandem paragliding. Among the routes, Bostan refuge can be reached in a 2-hour climb before a spectacular panoramic flight between the Aravis, Chablais, and Mont-Blanc, facing peaks exceeding 3,000 meters. Meals and/or overnight stay possible at the Bostan refuge.
• Four Season Rafting: The Giffre river, which flows through Samoëns, can now be enjoyed in the winter as well as summer thanks to the new packraft, a light inflatable boat which allows you to combine hiking and rafting to explore the rapids and secret routes of the Giffre.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Wine Tasting Festival: ‘Les Vignerons Font Du Ski’ is a unique event offering wine lovers the opportunity to discover the region's wines through tastings of fine vintages and discussions with winemakers after a day of skiing.
• Cold Yoga: Cold yoga practices (toumo) were developed primarily by Tibetans in the Himalayas under very "hostile" conditions. During this snowshoe hike, participants practice yoga postures, activate their breathing, contract their muscles, and rub their bodies to activate internal heat. 
• Cold Water Swimming: Diving into the icy waters (less than 5°C) of Lac aux Dames is now accessible to all, supervised by a professional. This experience combines breathing, self-improvement, and immersion in a soothing natural setting 
• Aperitif at Altitude: Samoëns offers an aperitif suspended in the air, aboard the Vercland cable car, to enjoy the scenery, comfortably seated in a cozy blanket. On the menu: a sharing platter with Savoyard and other cheeses, fine charcuterie, wine and tasty accompaniments. A 50-minute experience with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
• La Jaÿsinia pâtissie: It's been Samoëns' gourmet institution since 1880. The Froissard family has been at the helm since 1998 - Thierry, the father, was World Pastry Champion in 1989 and MOF Ice Cream Maker in 1994. His two children have now taken over, and the famous offerings include the Samoëns chalet, an artisanal iced log, and the Septimontaine galette, a butter and blueberry brioche.

Located just a few kilometres from the Swiss border, Samoëns is much more than a ski resort: it is above all a charming village, full of history, which lives year-round. Far from the hustle and bustle of the big resorts, Samoëns offers a friendly, family atmosphere with locals who share their passion for the mountains and embrace the mix of tradition and modernity.