Close-up view of jagged, snow-covered mountain peaks under a clear blue sky.Close-up view of jagged, snow-covered mountain peaks under a clear blue sky.

A complete guide to Samoëns

Everything you need for your Samoëns ski holiday.
24th April, 2025
5 min read time

Samoëns is a beacon of authentic alpine charm and tradition. This picturesque ski resort and village, revered for its age-old stone structures, serves as a gateway to the expansive Grand Massif ski domain, offering a unique blend of history and world-class skiing.

As one of the most charming French ski resorts, Samoëns is perfect for those seeking both tradition and adventure. We've created this guide to make planning your Samoëns ski holiday easy. You'll learn everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best places to grab a bite, enjoy a drink, or relax with family and friends after a day on the slopes. At the end, you'll also find downloadable resort maps, along with some handy contact numbers and links.

Let's get started!

Samoëns, France - overview

  1. Where is Samoëns?
  2. Samoëns the resort
  3. Samoëns ski area
  4. Skiing in Samoëns
  5. Samoëns ski season dates
  6. Samoëns snow history
  7. Restaurants in Samoëns
  8. Things to do in Samoëns
  9. Samoëns après-ski, and nightlife
  10. Samoëns resort map
  11. Samoëns tourist information

Where is Samoëns?

Samoëns is situated in the Haute-Savoie department, within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France.


Nearest airport

  • Geneva: 78.4 km (48.7 mi)

Transfer time

  • Geneva: 1hr 34

Samoëns the resort

  • Resort altitude: 1,600 m (5,249 ft)
  • Resort permanent residents: ~3000
Samoëns, a historic mountain town recognized as a Monument Historique, beautifully preserves its medieval heritage, once a hub for skilled stone masons. Its evolution into a tourist destination has not detracted from its authentic charm. The village's traffic-free center, with its narrow streets lined with quaint shops, bars, and restaurants, exudes a tranquil ambiance. The town square is a highlight, adorned with traditional stone buildings that exemplify classic French architecture, from wood-shuttered windows to pointy turrets. This peaceful haven is complemented by family-run restaurants offering delectable Savoyard specialties, while the few local bars maintain a genuinely welcoming atmosphere. Samoëns remains true to its roots, offering a serene mountain escape that's deeply connected to its rich history and cultural heritage.
                                                                                                           
ProsCons
Pedestrian-only centreCan get busy on weekends
Direct lift to the expansive Flaine/Les Carroz ski regionAccess lift situated outside from the village centre
Very close to GenevaLimited nightlife
Historic village with good accommodation optionsLimited après-ski scene

Here is how Samoëns looks like

This short video provides a glimpse of everything Samoëns has to offer.


(Ref: Samoëns tourist office)

Back to top

Samoëns ski area

  • Summit elevation: 2,500 m (8,202 ft)
  • Kilometres of pistes: 265 km (164 mi)
  • Vertical drop: 1,780 m (5,829 ft)
  • Ski lifts: 16 (78 - Grand Massif)
In Samoëns, you'll find yourself in the heart of the Grand Massif ski area, which encompasses Flaine, Morillon, Les Carroz, and Sixt Fer à Cheval, offering an extensive 265 km (164 mi) of ski runs. From the village, the 8 person Grand Massif Express gondola swiftly carries you to the 1,600 meter (5,249 ft) high alpine plateau, the gateway to one of France's finest ski areas. Samoëns's ski area includes different sectors:
  1. Upper slopes: this sector features challenging black slopes ideal for experienced skiers looking for thrilling runs and stunning views.
  2. Intermediate freestyle zone: this sector is the perfect spot for those looking to refine their freestyle skiing or snowboarding skills.
  3. Beginners area: recently redesigned, the beginners' area in Samoëns offers a friendly and safe environment for novices to learn and grow in confidence.
  4. Nordic skiing: for cross-country enthusiasts, the Vallée du Haut Giffre area offers two different zones: trails on the valley floor leading to Sixt (46 km/28 miles of trails) and another at the high-altitude Col de Joux Plane, offering breathtaking views and challenging trails.

Skiing in Samoëns

Beginners

The Samoëns 1600 area boasts beginner-friendly slopes that are easily accessible via the Grand Massif Express gondola. It's a fantastic spot to learn the basics, especially in the dedicated beginner zones at the gondola's top. Adding to the beginners' experience, you have the option to embark on the legendary Cascades run. This 14 km (8.6 mi) descent is perfect for those who prefer a less challenging yet visually stunning adventure. Starting from the summit of the Grandes Platières at 2,500 m (8,202 ft), you'll ski down to the village of Sixt Fer à Cheval. The journey takes you through breathtaking high alpine pastures and ancient forests, offering one of the most picturesque skiing experiences in the Alps.

Intermediates

Intermediate skiers will find the Grand Massif ski area to be a true playground. With a broad spectrum of slopes ranging from tree-lined paths to vast open terrains, skiers can revel in runs like Cristal, Serpentine, and the Piste des Cascades, France's longest blue run. The area also offers an array of red runs, with Flaine's selections promising a delightful challenge.

Advanced

Advanced skiers are in for exhilarating adventures. The panoramic views from the Grandes Platières gondola peak are a sight to behold, framing the majestic Mont Blanc. Thrill-seekers can take on the Grand Massif's steepest black run, the Diamant Noir, or venture to the Combe de Gers bowl for the challenging Onyx run.

Off-piste

For those with an appetite for off-piste excitement, the areas linking Samoëns to Les Carroz and Flaine are a must-visit. These zones offer higher altitude slopes and pristine off-piste opportunities, promising both challenge and enchantment.

Snowboarding

Snowboarders have ample opportunities. From the powder-filled Combe de Gers bowl to the tree-lined runs at lower elevations, there's something for every boarder. While a dedicated snow park might be missing, the ski domain more than compensates with its 16 fun zones, including a boardercross course and a speed run.

Samoëns ski season dates

The ski season in Samoëns typically runs from mid December to late April. While the official 2025/26 opening and closing dates have not yet been confirmed, we’ll update this page as soon as they are announced. Please note that these dates can vary depending on snow conditions and other operational factors. Planning ahead? Don’t forget to check out our Samoëns ski deals for the best ski offers available.

Samoëns snow history

Samoëns offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 27 cm (10.6 in) and 28 cm (11.0 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.6 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 23 cm (9.0 in) but occurs more frequently, averaging 3 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of March, traditionally the snowiest week in Samoëns, with an impressive 41 cm (16.1 in) of snow over 3.6 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days, when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 12 cm (4.7 in) of snow over 1.6 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.

                                                                                                                                                                   
MonthSnow amount (week)Snow days (week)
December27 cm2.6 days
January28 cm2.9 days
February23 cm3.0 days
March24 cm2.7 days
April12 cm1.6 days

(Ref: snow-forecast.com)

Back to top

Restaurants in Samoëns

  • Le 1600 Cafe: this mountain cafe is ideally located just opposite the nursery slopes of Samoens 1600.
  • Lou Caboëns: located just behind the top station of the Grand Massif Express gondola, it offers stunning views over the Samoens valley.
  • Restaurant L’Aero: offering a simple but delicious menu, this restaurant is located in a quiet corner of the Samoens 1600 plateau.
  • Le Rond Point: strategically placed just above the resort, it's not only a hotspot for après ski but also known for its high-quality a la carte lunches.
  • Le Monde a l'Envers: situated close to the main square, this restaurant specializes in delicious local Savoyarde dishes. Due to its popularity, reservations are recommended.
  • The Gite du Lac de Gers: nestled halfway down the Cascades piste, it provides an exceptional dining experience but is only open when conditions are favourable.
  • Table de Fifine: renowned for its authentic ambiance, though it's a bit removed from the town center.
  • Relais Gourmand: a reliable choice known for its consistent quality and welcoming environment.
  • La Louisane: the go-to spot for those craving delectable Pizzas.

Things to do in Samoëns

  • Floodlit skiing
  • Ice climbing
  • Ice skating
  • Paragliding
  • Snow scooters
  • Snowshoe walking
  • Fatbiking
  • Alpine rollercoaster
  • Speleology
  • Horse-drawn sled

Samoëns après-ski and nightlife

The apres-ski and nightlife are somewhat limited, but there are still a few spots to enjoy a drink. Highlights include:

  • Red Rock Café: one of Samoëns best bars offering a great selection of drinks, good music and a dance floor for those who feel to party.
  • Covey's Pub: informal and friendly, this is a Irish pub offering a wide selection of beers, Guinness, and whiskies at prices lower than many other resorts.
  • The Place 2 Be: this is definitely the place to be for a good selection of wines and beers.
  • Vin sur Vin: one of the best wine bars in Samoëns serving tasty tapas with very affordable prices

Back to top

Samoëns resort map

Samoëns resort map

Download Samoëns resort map here

Samoëns tourist information

  • Tourist office website: samoens.com
  • Tourist office phone: +33(0) 450344028
  • For visa & passport travel advice, visit here

Related guides