When deciding between Samoëns and Morillon, you're essentially choosing between two charming bases in the Grand Massif ski area, each offering access to the same 265 km (165 mi) of slopes but with different atmospheres, altitudes, and village styles.
Whether you're seeking a traditional Alpine town or a quiet, sun soaked retreat, this guide compares Samoëns and Morillon across key ski holiday criteria so you can book with confidence.
Samoëns or Morillon?
- Quick comparison table
- Ski area & terrain
- Snow fall history
- Accommodation & village atmosphere
- Après-ski & dining
- Families & beginners
- Advanced skiers & snowboarders
- Activities beyond skiing
- Accessibility & transfers
- Cost and value for money
- Which one should you choose?
Quick comparison table
| Feature | Samoëns | Morillon |
|---|
| Base elevation | 720 m (2,362 ft) | 700 m (2,297 ft) |
| Highest lift | 2,500 m (8,202 ft) | 2,500 m (8,202 ft) |
| Local piste (km) | 265 km (165 mi) | 265 km (165 mi) |
| Best for | Beginners, quick access to Flaine's off-piste, artisan shops | Beginner and intermediate skiers, family activities |
| Village atmosphere | Historic, traditional village with character | Quieter, family-friendly village |
| Accommodation | More varied, traditional chalets | Ski-in/ski-out at Morillon 1100 |
| Après-ski scene | Cosy bars and some nightlife | Very limited nightlife, quiet bars |
Ski area & terrain
- Samoëns: Linked to the Grand Massif via the Grand Massif Express gondola to Samoëns 1600. Great mix of blue and red runs directly above the resort. Fast access to Flaine for advanced skiers seeking off-piste bowls. Near the Coulouvrier chairlift for extended terrain coverage.
- Morillon: Connected by gondola to Morillon 1100, then Sairon chair to Grand Massif. Home to the 7 km (4.3 mi) long Marvel green run, ideal for beginners. Peaceful, tree lined blue slopes for relaxed progression. Good access to Les Carroz and further links to Flaine’s tougher terrain.
Check out the Grand Massif piste map
Snow fall history
| Month | Samoëns (cm/in) | Morillon (cm/in) |
|---|
| December | 27 cm/10.6 in | 21 cm/8.2 in |
| January | 28 cm/11.0 in | 22 cm/8.6 in |
| February | 23 cm/9.0 in | 18 cm/7.0 in |
| March | 24 cm/9.4 in | 18 cm/7.0 in |
| April | 12 cm/4.7 in | 8 cm/3.1 in |
(ref: snow-forecast.com)
Accommodation & village atmosphere
- Samoëns is a postcard worthy Savoyard village with stone buildings, a lively market square, and authentic Alpine charm. It offers a mix of hotels, catered chalets, and apartments, but few are ski-in/ski-out due to the need to take a gondola up to the skiing.
- Morillon is split into two levels: the traditional valley village at 700 m (2,297 ft), and Morillon 1100 (Les Esserts), a purpose-built, peaceful satellite with ski-in/ski-out access. Accommodation in Morillon is simpler and more geared toward families or those seeking a quiet getaway.
Explore some accommodation options in Samoëns
Après-ski & dining
- Samoëns has a cosy après-ski scene with several bars, local restaurants, and even a few clubs, providing some nightlife without being rowdy. Expect cheese fondues, wood-fired pizzas, and a few standout Savoyard spots.
- Morillon is much quieter, with just a handful of local bars and restaurants. Après is more about soaking up the sun on a terrace than partying. That said, spots like L'Beu above the Sairon lift offer fantastic views and great crepes.
Families & beginners
- Samoëns 1600 has a dedicated beginner area separated from main traffic and is served by gentle lifts. ESF and ZigZag ski schools operate here.
- Morillon 1100 is even better suited for families with ski-in/ski-out accommodation, a beginner area near the heart of the resort, and the long Marvel green run perfect for first timers. Ze KidzPark adds fun for children learning freestyle.
Advanced skiers & snowboarders
- Samoëns offers faster access to tougher terrain in Flaine and beyond. While local black pistes are limited, confident skiers and snowboarders can easily reach steeper routes and off-piste bowls.
- Morillon has a few red runs like Paccoty and Stade Morillon that advanced riders enjoy, and it's well positioned for tree skiing in Les Carroz or the freeride bowls of Flaine. However, expert terrain within Morillon itself is limited.
Activities beyond skiing
- Samoëns stands out with its non ski options. Visitors can enjoy dog sledding, snowshoeing, and ice skating, or explore the village's shops and historic centre. It's a great choice for mixed-activity groups.
- Morillon offers some family activities like snowshoeing and has a quieter vibe, though nightlife and shops are limited. It's more about slowing down and soaking in the mountain air.
Accessibility & transfers
- Samoëns is approximately 1 hr 10 min from Geneva Airport and 1 hr 15 min from Chambéry. Access is via a well maintained road to the village, followed by a gondola to the ski area.
- Morillon is similarly accessible: about 1 hr from Geneva and 1 hr 20 min from Chambéry. The drive includes a final stretch up the mountain to Morillon 1100 if staying at the ski-in/ski-out base.
Cost and value for money
- Samoëns has slightly higher accommodation costs, particularly in the village centre, but offers more options and a livelier atmosphere.
- Morillon is typically more affordable for accommodation and dining, especially in Morillon 1100 where ski-in/ski-out lodgings are available at reasonable rates. Lift pass prices are the same across the Grand Massif.
Explore our Samoëns deals
Which one should you choose?
- Choose Samoëns if you want charming village vibes, more dining and activity options, and quicker access to advanced terrain.
- Choose Morillon if** **you're after a peaceful, ski-in/ski-out family getaway with great beginner runs and fewer crowds.
