Winter - On piste
Samoens is situated in the Grand Massif ski area which includes Flaine, Morillon, les Carroz and Sixt. The Samoens cable car takes 8 minutes to reach the ski area. The Grand Massif has an excellent snow record and offers 265kms of piste with splendid panoramic views of Mont Blanc.
There are runs to suit everyone from the beginner to the advanced skier/boarder; 15 green runs, 53 blue, 49 red and 12 black. There are also 3 snow parks in the area for freestyle skiing and boarding. For advanced skiers/boarders there are exciting off piste opportunities. The off-piste is easily lift accessible and its many couloirs and wide powder bowls present a challenge for the most experienced skier. A further attraction is the absence of lengthy lift queues even at peak season.
The local ski bus stops at the entrance to the apartment and the village centre is only a 10 minute walk away. The bus is free and takes 5 minutes to reach the cable car. It runs regularly and its route takes in the neighbouring villages of Morillon and Sixt as well.
There is a ski school operating a range of group classes and private lessons. Refer to www.esfsamoens.com for more information. Beginners will be interested to know that Samoens boasts the largest nursery slope area in Haute Savoie.
Families with young children will have a great holiday in Samoens. The resort is renowned for its childcare facilities which means parents have as much ski time to themselves as they wish. The Loupiots Kindergarten (telephone 0033 450 341396) is open from 0830 to 1800 and will take care of children between 3 months old and 6 years. Places can be reserved for half days or full days. Besides the Kindergarten, ski school is an option for children aged 3 and above.
Another facility available for young children and their parents is the play centre called Maison des Petits Montagnards. Entry is free.
Other winter activities
Ice skating rink, dog sledging, cross country skiing, snow shoe walking, children's play area with slides, roundabouts and swings, sports centre with facilities including 2 swimming pools.
