Samoëns is a charming and authentic French village with a rich history and fantastic skiing. Found at 1,600m, this family-friendly resort is part of the Grand Massif ski area, which provides an impressive 265km of pisted terrain and is renowned for its typically consistent snowfall across the season. The resort’s ski range reaches up to 2,500m and offers stunning views over the Giffre Valley.
With a durable and comprehensive lift system and linked to the surrounding resorts of Flaine, Les Carroz, Morillon and Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, there is a tremendous amount of terrain to discover. Suitable for all abilities, Samoëns offers a variety of ski runs and off-piste skiing areas, as well as a snowpark for freestyle enthusiasts.
Samoëns Ski Area
The ski area in Samoëns is composed of four main sectors; Saix, Morillon, Sixt and Tête des Saix, which can all be accessed directly from the village. The ski area in Samoëns consists of 134 runs, of which 20% are green, 40% blue, 30% red and 10% black.
Beginner Skiing in Samoëns
Samoëns is a great choice for beginners with its ample nursery slopes and wide green runs. The excellent snow conditions and gentle gradients make it an ideal place to learn how to ski. The main nursery slope, Jardin des Neiges, is located in the village centre. Once you feel confident on the nursery slopes, you can explore the beginner-friendly areas in Saix and Morillon, which offer a variety of green runs like Marvel and Septi-Club.
Intermediate Skiing in Samoëns
Intermediate skiers will find plenty of opportunities to challenge themselves in Samoëns. With a wide variety of blue and red runs, the resort is a haven for skiers looking to improve their skills. The Tête des Saix area offers an array of intermediate-friendly blue runs such as Bergin and Chariande Express. For those ready to tackle red runs, the iconic Piste des Cascades, stretching over 14km from Flaine to Sixt, is a must-try. Remember, the grading system in Samoëns is considered slightly more challenging compared to other French resorts, so plan your routes carefully and don’t let it affect your confidence!
Advanced Skiing in Samoëns
For advanced skiers, Samoëns offers a range of challenging terrain. The black runs, such as Styx in the Flaine sector, offer steep descents and thrilling rides. The resort also boasts several mogul fields and steep off-piste areas that will keep even the most seasoned skiers on their toes.
Off-piste Skiing in Samoëns
Samoëns is a paradise for off-piste skiing, offering a variety of thrilling descents. The Gers Bowl, accessed from the top of the Flaine lift system, is a popular choice amongst experienced skiers. Remember to hire a local guide or instructor when venturing off-piste to ensure your safety and to help you discover the best hidden spots.
Snowparks in Samoëns
For freestyle skiers, Samoëns offers the JamPark in the Morillon sector. Whether you’re an experienced freestyler or just starting out, the park offers a variety of jumps, rails and boxes to test your skills.
Conclusion
Samoëns is an ideal ski destination for all levels of skiers, offering a diverse range of slopes, off-piste areas and a freestyle park. Make the most of your trip by hiring a ski instructor who can guide you to the best runs for your ability and enhance your skiing experience.