This calm French Alpine town has stone buildings carved by local craftsmen since the 16th century, a 2,400-species botanical garden, and access to 265km of ski slopes in Grand Massif.
Samoëns, a French Alpine town in Haute-Savoie, sits in the Giffre Valley just over an hour from Geneva. You can walk through medieval castle ruins at the Jaÿsinia botanical garden, buy fresh Reblochon cheese at the Wednesday market, or ski down a 14-kilometer descent in the Grand Massif area. The town's stone buildings, carved by local craftsmen since the 16th century, line the streets around the main square, while nine mountain chapels dot the surrounding peaks.
Getting to Samoëns
The town lies 70km from Geneva Airport, making it one of the most accessible French Alpine destinations. You can drive to Samoëns in 52 minutes from Geneva, or take a bus service that runs regularly during winter season. The nearest train station is in Cluses, 25km away, with taxi services available for the final leg.
Winter Sports in the Grand Massif
Take the Grand Massif Express lift at the edge of town to reach Samoëns 1600, where you can access 265km of marked pistes across five towns. The ski area includes 351 marked runs and 78 lifts, reaching heights of 2,500m. Snow typically stays from December through late April, with 143 snow cannons covering 35km of runs. You can ski the 14km-long descent or learn at one of France's largest beginner areas.
Jaÿsinia Botanical Garden
Walk through 2,400 plant species at this alpine botanical garden, established in 1906. The garden's terraced slopes remain open year-round with free entry, and the National Museum of Natural History maintains the scientific collections. Follow the paths uphill to reach medieval castle ruins, where you can look across the entire valley.
Summer Activities
From June to September, you can go rafting and paddleboarding on the Giffre River. Mountain bikers can ride 28 dedicated freeride tracks within a 400km trail network, ranging from beginner-friendly paths to technical descents. Cool off at the outdoor swimming pool while looking at the mountains, or try the rope courses among pine trees at Indiana Parc.
Local Markets and Food
Shop at the Wednesday market (7am to 1pm), one of Haute-Savoie's largest weekly markets. Local vendors sell wheels of Reblochon and Tomme de Savoie cheese, cured meats, and seasonal vegetables. In the town center, restaurants serve Savoyard specialties like tartiflette and fondue. You'll find a Carrefour supermarket on the edge of town for everyday items.
Stonecutting Tradition
The town's stonecutters, known as "Frahans," carved the distinctive buildings you see around town from the 16th century onward. Their work appears in the stone doorways, fountains, and building facades, particularly around the main square. Today, the Société des Maçons keeps this craft alive with active stonecutters who maintain and create new stone works.
