A magnificent Haute-Savoie village, Samoëns transforms itself in winter into a dynamic ski resort in the heart of the Alps. Attached to the Grand Massif ski area, the resort boasts numerous slopes of all levels of difficulty. Whether you prefer skiing or relaxing at the spa, you're sure to find what you're looking for at Samoëns. Enjoy the valley's magnificent scenery and views of Mont-Blanc on your skis, snowshoes or all-terrain scooter. To help you plan your stay, discover the 11 must-do winter activities in Samoëns.
1- Downhill skiing and snowboarding
The resort of Samoëns is part of the Grand Massif ski area, one of the largest in the French Alps. Linked to Flaine, Les Carroz, Morillon and Sixt Fer à Cheval, Samoëns offers visitors no fewer than 139 runs. A total of 62 lifts provide access to pistes of all levels of difficulty, ideal for discovering the valley on skis or snowboard. For children and beginners, there are several ski schools in the area.
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2- Snowshoeing
If you're more into snowshoeing than sliding down the slopes, you won't be disappointed in Samoëns! Discover the scenic beauty of this Haute-Savoie valley with its typical Alpine landscapes. Samoëns is one of the most beautiful villages in the Alps, so make the most of a snowshoe walk to explore every nook and cranny - the snow can only make the landscape more charming. If you have your own equipment and would like to discover the region without a guide, don't hesitate to contact thetourist office to find out which stops you shouldn't miss.
Activities to book don't forget to reserve your snowshoes now for a hike around Samoëns.
3- Tobogganing in Samoëns in winter
Like to slide but not ski? Then go tobogganing! This ideal family activity will delight young and old alike. The Samoëns ski area has a toboggan run on the south side of the valley, just a few kilometers from the village center. You'll find it on the Joux Plane Nordic site, where you can also go cross-country skiing or try your hand at biathlon.
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4- A dip in icy waters
Many skiers end their day at the spa or with a hot bath. Why not go the other way and try an ice water swim in Samoëns? Breaststroke in cold water is renowned for its positive effects on physical and mental health, such as improved blood circulation. Beware, however, that this activity needs to be supervised. Here, you'll be accompanied by a sports coach and cold-water swimmer.
Article to read: if you're more into hot water and saunas, check out our article on Europe's best spa towns.
5- What to do in Samoëns in winter? Pony-sledging
The ideal activity if you're heading off to winter sports with children, pony-luging is sure to delight your little ones! In Samoëns, pony-luge rides last around 30min and take them through the magnificent alpine scenery of the Giffre valley. Introduce your children to the joys of sliding, and let them spend some quality time with the animals. Suitable for children aged 1 to 9.
Petit Futé tip if you're driving to Samoëns, opt for an electronic toll tag right here and make your journey easier.
6- Relax at the spa
After a long, cold and tiring day on the slopes, pamper yourself with one of the many wellness activities on offer. In Samoëns, you'll find no fewer than 6 wellness areas, with a choice of spas, saunas, swimming pools, hammams and massages. Some also offer yoga activities, indoors or outdoors for the more courageous. So don't forget to pack your swimsuit for your ski trip!
7- Try your hand at biathlon
Follow in the footsteps of biathlon champions by discovering this unique discipline, combining effort and precision. L'École du Ski Français offers biathlon lessons for children aged 10 and over, in private or group classes. You'll combine cross-country skiing and laser rifle shooting in standing or prone position. Just one of the reasons why Samoëns is one of the best places to go in the mountains.
8- Cross-country skiing
An essential part of winter sports in Haute-Savoie, cross-country skiing is a great alternative to other winter sports. Enjoy the valley scenery and views of Mont Blanc on the 50km of groomed trails at the Joux-Plane Nordic site. The area promises good times on the slopes and incredible views of the surrounding area.
Activities to book enjoy the view from a great height, and take a paragliding experience in the middle of winter, bookable right here.
9- What to do in Samoëns in winter? Ice climbing
Try your hand atice climbing in Samoëns. Enthusiastic and experienced guides will lead you up the waterfalls for a day out of time. Accessible to all levels, ice climbing is done in groups, and from ages 12 or 14, depending on the location. You'll learn how to handle the equipment and the technical aspects of this practice, which is an excellent approach to mountaineering.
10- Ski touring
Get off the beaten track and hit the ski touring trails. Whether self-guided or guided, you'll enjoy the magnificent snow-covered mountain scenery, before heading back down to the resort as if you were downhill skiing. If you're on your own, don't forget to bring a safety pack with you, and check with your localtourist office or ski school. However, it's best to be accompanied by a professional.
11- A "Frozen River" outing in Samoëns in winter
To adapt to the changes linked to global warming, Samoëns offers activities for all seasons. You can now go rafting, canoeing or kayaking (depending on the time of year and the weather) in the middle of winter. Travellers have been rafting in the region in summer for over 30 years. The resort now offers the chance to paddle the river while enjoying the beautiful snow-covered scenery.
Activities to book take a rafting trip down the Giffre River, book here.
What to do in Samoëns in winter when you're not skiing?
Do you love the mountains, fondue and snow, but skiing isn't your cup of tea? Here are some of the best things to do in Samoëns when you're not skiing:
- Snowshoe trekking: exploring the valley isn't just for skiers! Discover Samoëns' magnificent alpine scenery on a snowshoe hike.
- Go to the spa: relax in the pool, sauna or hammam while your friends brave the cold on skis or snowboard.
- Rafting : if you're still a thrill-seeker, don't hesitate to book a rafting trip down the Giffre.
- Dive into icy water: don't be afraid of the cold and try your hand at breaststroke in icy water, supervised by a professional.
Where to stay in Samoëns?
You'll find plenty of accommodation in Samoëns for your winter sports holiday. We've put together a small selection of the best accommodations for you:
- A traditional, comfortable chalet: La Renardière. This modern establishment has the look and feel of a traditional chalet. You'll find two swimming pools and a relaxation area. Book your stay here.
- High-quality apartments: Résidence CGH La Reine des prés. This high-end establishment offers apartments fully furnished in the typical style of mountain architecture. Book directly here.
- A luxurious chalet in a large park: the chalet-hotel Neige et Roc. This establishment at the foot of the mountains offers comfortable rooms with balconies, an indoor swimming pool and a games room. Book your stay now.
What to do in Samoëns in summer?
If you prefer the mountains in summer, Samoëns is the place for you. The village is one of the top 5 mountain resorts to visit in summer. We've picked out just a few of the things you can do there in the off-season:
- Visit the village of Samoëns: this is one of the most beautiful villages in the Alps, so don't miss out!
- Hiking and biking: explore the valley and admire the mountain scenery on foot or mountain bike.
- Climbing and via ferrata: try your hand at rock climbing or via ferrata.
- Water sports: in the valley, you can enjoy canyoning, hydrospeed, rafting, tubing and water skiing. The choice is yours!
