What is the winter

What is the winter season like in Samoëns Many people think the winter season is just for downhill skiing but there’s so much more on offer. We love to try cross country skiing which is great for fitness and for the incredible views from the top of the Col de Joux plan; or traverse the valley by the river. Tailor-made snowshoe adven-tures can be organised and are a real escape from daily life and a chance to discover utterly magical, Narnia-like land-scapes. Snowshoe walks make snowy winter terrain accessible to anyone and everyone. Whether you take a half or full day to conquer a summit, stroll through the woods, or build an igloo as a family, there’s an excursion to suit your needs. A very different après-ski experience can be a snow shoe walk through snowy forests with nothing but the moon and flickering flame of your handheld torch to guide you, enjoy the quiet, calm of the mountain after dark as you make your way to Ludo’s Yurts – traditional Mongolian roundhouses. There you will enjoy a traditional meal in a cosy, friendly environment. Where to rent equipment We tend to use Xtreme Glisses which is efficiently run by Francois, who has a fabulous team. It’s extremely close to the Grand Massif Express Gondola, by the roundabout near to the Bridge over the river. As part of the ski rental package, you are provided with overnight storage for your skis and boots, this is a huge benefit as there is no need to haul all of your gear back to The Lodge. A good alternative is Jay Sports Ski Loc which is a great ski shop with rental, run by Thierry Jay. They have three shops, two in the town and a third on the Samoëns 1600 plateau.

Best places to eat out in Samoëns Au Relais Septimontain: The food is great, especially the Tartiflette but leave enough room for their desserts, the crème brulee is delicious! 8 M des Monts: With husband in the kitchen and wife running the show in the restaurant, the whole experience is perfect. Lovely local organic wines and products - just make sure you leave room for a gorgeous desert! Best Mountain Restaurants Lou Caboens: A lovely varied menu and Cedric is the perfect host. Lou Caboens is a sun trap and provides one of the best terraces in the Grand Massif. This is also one of the best places for après-ski. The Igloo – Morillon: Wonderful outside deck. It is situated at the top of the Bergin chair lift or can be accessed via the Marvel piste. They serve great food, the Pila is fabulous, it’s a similar dish to Tartiflette. Both restaurants open year round. A great day out in summer is to take the lifts to Morillon 1100 on to Igloo, take a hike before lunch and after walk to Morillon 1100 (1.5-2 hours). Best Village Bars La Reposette: Great atmosphere, great food and drink, great people and comfy vouches by the fireplace, just a short drive from Samoëns centre. It’s no wonder it’s so popular with both tourists and locals alike – it's the perfect après-ski meeting place. Vin sur Vin: Marco’s wine bar is an ideal little bar in summer and winter and a great favourite with the locals. Enjoy a glass from a vast selection of local and international wines, accompanied by a plate of Italian antipasti, snacks or a menu.