Winter sports enthusiasts, discover the fantastic ski resorts around Annecy! This city, known as the Venice of the Alps, is a true jewel with its cobblestone streets and canals. Thanks to its privileged location in Haute-Savoie, it offers easy access to several ski areas. Whether it’s for a family outing, with friends, or solo, each resort has its own features. Here’s an overview to help you choose the ideal resort according to your desires and ski level.
La Clusaz and Le Grand Bornand, the must-sees
Just 30 km from Annecy, La Clusaz is the ultimate family resort. With its 125 km of slopes and 45 lifts, it offers a wide choice for lovers of alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, and even sledding. The snow is abundant and the landscapes are breathtaking.
Le Grand Bornand, on the other hand, is located about 45 minutes from Annecy. This authentic resort offers 84 km of slopes and 24 lifts. Ideal for family vacations, it stands out for its charm and enchanting setting. The traditional chalets add a touch of authenticity, while the modern facilities ensure optimal comfort.
Access to these two resorts is easy by car from Annecy, making them perfect destinations for a quick getaway. Accommodations vary, from charming residences to luxurious hotels.
Chamonix and Flaine, for adventurers
Chamonix, located at an altitude of 1035 m, is one of the most sought-after destinations for ski enthusiasts. This village resort offers stunning views of the Mer de Glace and Mont-Blanc. With an impressive number of slopes, it attracts winter sports enthusiasts from all over the world.
Flaine, meanwhile, is an art resort, known for its outdoor sculptures and unique atmosphere. With more than 250 km of slopes, it offers a vast playground for skiers of all levels. This resort is perfect for those looking to combine art and sport.
Access to these resorts can be done by train from Annecy station or by bus, thus offering several convenient transport options to reach these ski areas.
Mégève and Les Carroz, between tradition and modernity
Mégève, a true gem of the Alps, offers more than 400 km of interconnected slopes. This village resort, renowned for its traditional charm, is ideal for family or friends’ vacations. The ambiance is both chic and relaxed, providing a perfect balance between tradition and modernity.
Les Carroz, within the Grand Massif, offers more than 260 km of slopes. This family resort features an enchanting environment with its typical chalets and warm atmosphere. Perfect for those seeking both a preserved natural environment and modern facilities.
Access to these resorts can be easily done by car or bus from Annecy, allowing for great flexibility in organizing your ski stay.
Did you know that La Clusaz was one of the first French resorts to host international ski competitions?
To help you plan your stay, here are some additional pieces of information:
- Cuisine: Enjoy Savoyard specialties like fondue, raclette, and tartiflette in local restaurants.
- Mountain villages: Explore charming villages around Annecy, such as Talloires and Menthon-Saint-Bernard, for an authentic experience.
- Walk: Don’t miss a stroll along the Thiou canal, one of the shortest rivers in France, offering picturesque views.
The Aravis, a natural jewel
The Aravis mountains are an exceptional massif that you absolutely must discover. Located near Annecy, this area includes several resorts like La Clusaz and Le Grand Bornand, offering a multitude of slopes for all levels. The landscapes are breathtaking with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Lovers of cross-country skiing will also find their happiness thanks to many marked circuits.
The natural environment of the Aravis is preserved, allowing visitors to enjoy an authentic setting. The traditional chalets add a touch of charm to this region, while the modern infrastructures guarantee optimal comfort. In addition to alpine skiing, the region offers activities such as snowshoeing, paragliding, and even dog sledding.
Le Semnoz, the ideal family resort
Just 20 minutes from Annecy, Le Semnoz is an ideal family resort for a day of ski. With its 14 km of slopes, it is perfect for beginners and families with children. Le Semnoz also offers activities like sledding and snow tubing, ensuring fun for everyone. Access is easy by car, and the view over Lake Annecy is breathtaking.
Samoëns and its unique heritage
Samoëns stands out for its rich historical and architectural heritage. This village resort, nestled in the heart of the Grand Massif, offers 265 km of slopes. The picturesque streets and stone houses provide an enchanting setting for winter sports enthusiasts. In addition to skiing, Samoëns offers activities like ice climbing, cave visits, and horse-drawn carriage rides.
The Espace Diamant, a varied area
The Espace Diamant includes several resorts, including Praz-sur-Arly, Flumet, and Notre-Dame-de-Bellecombe. With its 192 km of slopes, this area offers great variety for ski lovers of all levels. Cross-country skiing enthusiasts will also find numerous marked trails. Access from Annecy is easily done by car or bus, making these resorts easily accessible for a successful stay.
Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise, preserved authenticity
Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise is a resort that has managed to preserve its authentic character. Nestled in a natural setting, it offers 41 km of slopes. This resort is particularly appreciated for its tranquility and warm atmosphere. The typical wooden chalets add to the charm of this destination. In addition to alpine skiing, Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise offers activities like ski touring and heliskiing.
Plan your stay in Annecy and its surroundings
With so many resorts around Annecy, all that’s left is to plan your next vacation. Whether you are a fan of alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, or simply seeking an enchanting backdrop to recharge, each destination offers something unique. Remember to book your accommodation in advance to make the most of your stay. With its breathtaking landscapes, quality infrastructure, and friendly atmosphere, Annecy and its surroundings are the ideal destination for a successful vacation with family or friends.
FAQ about ski resorts near Annecy
What is the best time to enjoy the ski resorts around Annecy?
The ideal period to fully enjoy the ski resorts near Annecy generally extends from December to April. It is during these winter months that the ski areas offer the best snow conditions and where you can have unforgettable moments on the snow-covered slopes.
Are there activities other than skiing to do in the resorts around Annecy?
In addition to skiing, the resorts around Annecy offer a multitude of activities for all tastes. You can enjoy snowshoe hikes, paragliding, ice climbing, cave visits, carriage rides, and much more. There is something for all ages and desires, making your stay even richer and more varied.