Flaine
With its roots in Modernism and Bauhaus, Flaine certainly makes an impact with its avant-garde ski-in/ski-out architecture designed to blend harmoniously into the mountain landscape. The Haute-Savoie resort, which is totally car-free, is listed as a 20th Century Architectural Heritage Site and an open-air museum (check out the sculptures by Dubuffet and Picasso!).
One of five resorts in the Grand Massif, Flaine’s 24 lifts take skiers up to the summits to admire breathtaking views, such as Grandes Platières, where you could easily spend hours gazing at Mont Blanc. Skiers can explore hair-raising steep runs, gentle slopes, freeride, forest trails and more, all at an altitude of 1,600m to 2,500m.
Just a stone’s throw from Annecy and Geneva, with exceptional views of the Mont Blanc massif, Flaine is ideal for the whole family and skiers of all abilities, while under-eights can enjoy free passes for unlimited skiing in the Grand Massif resorts. Or if you fancy a change, why not try tobogganing, trail running on snow or getting close to nature on a 3km yoga route with 10 mindful poses along the way?
Off the slopes, Flaine is big on entertainment. Every week until April 21, themed weeks give you the chance to try out a whole host of activities without having to pay a thing – biathlon, bumperball, outdoor laser game, foot darts, snowman building, axe throwing… Then there’s sledding with dogs, snowshoeing, and ski touring under a starlit sky.
Eat, Sleep, Relax
Flaine’s wide choice of accommodation means you’ll have a great holiday in the mountains whether on your own, as a couple, with your family, or in a group. MGM has just opened a 4-star hotel and a 5-star tourist residence in the heart of Flaine, ski-in/ski-out right by the Grandes Platières cable car, with wellness area, pool and car park.
The latest 5B Belambra ‘Panorama’ club opened its doors in December 2023. Located on the heights of Flaine, in Les Gérats, this 4-star holiday village is ski-in/ski-out and enjoys a 180° panoramic view of the ski area. It offers an all-inclusive holiday with children’s clubs from 4 months, a wellness area and an indoor swimming pool. For some deep relaxation, a number of luxury spas await at Flaine too.
There’s a wide choice of dining in Flaine, whether you’re after a romantic meal for two or a crowd-pleasing burger-fest with the kids. At the foot of the slopes, you’ll find the cocooning Le Michet, serving up gastronomic delights in an authentic sheepfold over 100 years old. Or tuck into a menu including pizzas alongside traditional Savoyard fare at family-friendly Brasserie Les Cîmes. One thing’s for sure, you won’t go hungry!
Environment
Flaine, of course, is doing its bit for the environment too, with pledges to work towards net zero carbon status and zero waste and encourage greater biodiversity.
Events in 2024
February 14, 21 and 28 and March 6: 110 drones will light up the skies for a spectacular light show.
Mar 9-15: Classic Music Week – classic music from the “Parhélie” trio, made up of a pianist, a violinist and a cellist.
Mar 9 – Apr 21: Printemps de Flaine – live music from classical to rock, as well as shows, workshops and parades for all ages.
Mar 16-22: Electro Surprise Week – every day, a DJ will be performing on the terraces of the resort’s bars and restaurants.
At a glance
Open until April 21
265km of runs at an altitude of 1600m-2500m