Overview of the Grand Massif Ski Area

Located in the heart of the Alps, the Grand Massif ski area is one of the largest in France. Connecting the resorts of Flaine, Les Carroz, Morillon, Samoëns, and Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, it offers an exceptional playground with over 265 km of slopes suitable for all levels. Whether you’re a beginner on the green runs, prefer relaxed skiing on the blue slopes, or seek thrills on the red and black runs, everyone will find pistes perfectly suited to their level.

With modern and fast lifts, it’s easy to move between the different areas and make the most of a full day of skiing. The Grand Massif’s privileged location, facing Mont-Blanc, also guarantees a unique panorama and abundant snow throughout the season. A true paradise for ski enthusiasts as well as families looking for a successful holiday!

Presentation of the 5 resorts in the area

Flaine

The resort of Flaine is modern and ideal for both families and experienced skiers looking to combine speed with stunning panoramic views. Nestled in the heart of a beautiful natural park, Flaine offers a wide variety of slopes winding through pine forests, perfect for those who love elevation changes. Here, everything is done “ski-in/ski-out,” and cars are not welcome.

Thanks to its exceptional location, Flaine enjoys consistent snowfall throughout the entire season.

Resort altitude: 1,600 m
Top of the slopes: 2,500 m
61 slopes
140 km of alpine ski runs
Adult day pass: €59
1 hr 15 min from Geneva Airport

Les Carroz

At the foot of the Grand Massif, the resort of Les Carroz d’Arâches appeals to skiers of all levels. Thrill-seekers will find challenging runs that will put their legs to the test, while those who prefer a more relaxed experience can glide gently through pine forests on the many blue slopes. And for those who like variety, the wide range of runs means you’ll rarely ski the same one twice.

With the charm of an authentic mountain village, Les Carroz offers expansive forests to explore, dotted with stunning viewpoints—such as the Aravis range and the Arve Valley, visible from iconic runs like Les Timalets and Chamois.

Bonus: The resort also features a hotel well-suited for ski groups.

Resort altitude: 1,200 m
Top of the slopes: 2,200 m
75 slopes
145 km of alpine ski runs
Adult day pass: €55 (VILL4GES pass gives access to four resorts in the ski area: Les Carroz, Morillon, Samoëns, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval)
50 min from Geneva Airport

Morillon

A charming, family-friendly resort in the heart of Haute-Savoie, Morillon offers gentle and intermediate slopes that are perfect for learning to ski. It’s a welcoming and low-key destination, ideal for families looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy activities like snowshoeing. Surrounded by unspoiled nature, Morillon is a traditional village with a pedestrian ski-in/ski-out area—convenient and practical for all.

Resort altitude: 1,100 m
Top of the slopes: 2,100 m
75 slopes
145 km of alpine ski runs
Adult day pass: €55 (VILL4GES pass gives access to 4 resorts: Les Carroz, Morillon, Samoëns, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval)
60 km from Geneva Airport, 70 km from Annecy Airport

Samoëns

Samoëns is a picturesque ski village renowned for its traditional charm, preserved architecture, and warm atmosphere. Much of the surrounding area is designated as a nature reserve, allowing skiers to enjoy a wild, untouched environment while staying in a typical alpine village.

Bonus: Samoëns boasts one of the largest beginner areas in France, making it perfect for first-timers.

Resort altitude: 1,600 m
Top of the slopes: 2,120 m
75 slopes
145 km of alpine ski runs
Adult day pass: €55 (VILL4GES pass gives access to 4 resorts: Les Carroz, Morillon, Samoëns, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval)
78 km from Geneva Airport, 20 km from Cluses train station

Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval

As the smallest and most secluded resort in the Grand Massif ski area, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval is a peaceful and authentic destination. While it has fewer slopes than Flaine or Les Carroz, it offers a fantastic setting for skiers who want to escape the crowds, enjoy quiet runs, or simply soak in the breathtaking natural amphitheater. With 80% of its territory located within a protected nature reserve, Sixt is a serene retreat for nature lovers.

Resort altitude: 840 m
Top of the slopes: 2,500 m
75 slopes
145 km of alpine ski runs
Adult day pass: €55 (VILL4GES pass gives access to 4 resorts: Les Carroz, Morillon, Samoëns, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval)
60 km from Geneva Airport, 70 km from Annecy Airport

Planning Your Stay in the Grand Massif: Accommodation and Practical Tips

A successful stay in the Grand Massif ski area starts with choosing the right accommodation. Depending on your preferences, you might go for a traditional chalet in a village like Samoëns, a ski-in/ski-out apartment in Flaine, or a family-friendly hotel in Les Carroz.

To combine comfort and good food, consider booking a hotel with a restaurant at the foot of the slopes—perfect for enjoying a fondue or tartiflette after a day of skiing, without needing to go out again. Be sure to book early, especially during school holidays, as the best places fill up quickly.

From a logistics point of view, access is easy thanks to the nearby Geneva Airport (about 1 hour by car). To save time once you’re there, book your lift passes and equipment rental online—you’ll avoid queues at the ticket office and may benefit from discounts and promotional offers.

Finally, if you’re traveling light with children, opt for resorts with free shuttle services, well-equipped ski schools, and shops within walking distance. It makes daily life easier and leaves more time… to ski!

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