Samoens

Samoëns is the only winter and summer sports resort in France to be listed as a 'Historic Monument'. It is an ideal holiday destination if you enjoy walking, mountain biking or a range of other summer sports but its special character makes it equally popular with visitors looking for the charm of a friendly village. Once a thriving stone-cutting centre, the medieval village at its heart still retains an ancient church, medieval fountains and a variety of quaint old buildings.

Despite growth on the outskirts of Samoëns, the many excellent traditional-style bars and restaurants, its cobbled streets and its shops still give the village a feel of 'real' rural France. Don't miss market day on Wednesdays in the church square!

There is so much to do in Samoëns and the surrounding areas, with the rivers Giffre, Dranse, and Arve for fun in the water and chairlifts/gondolas allowing access to the highest points for mountain walks. The 18-hole golf courses at Les Carroz and Les Gets boast fantastic views and uncrowded fairways. 

The Giffre and nearby Fer à Cheval (with its beautiful waterfalls) provide the backdrop for endless itineraries that can be enjoyed by walkers, hikers and mountain bikers. Most activities can be enjoyed by adults and children alike, and both will enjoy the Indiana Adventure Park.

Slightly further down the Giffre Valley from Morillon (4 minutes away) and just before Sixt Fer a Cheval, Samoëns is only a 20-minute drive from the motorway exit near the TGV train station of Cluses and only 55km from Geneva.

If you'd like to know more about this fantastic summer resort, read our blogs: 5 reasons to spend summer in Samoëns and The Inside Track: Summer in Samoëns (a review from Marie-Anne in team)

Interested in buying an apartment in Samoëns? See our Buying in the Alps section