As the name suggests, the Grand Massif this is one of the largest ski areas in France. It's made up from the resorts of Sixt, Samoëns, Flaine, Morillon, and Les Carroz, with Flaine located in the heart of the area. All in all there are 265km of pistes, linked by an extensive lift system, with blue runs linking Sixt with the main ski area.
Sixt is a small ski area that forms part of a nature reserve in Grand Massif. There are 34 km of pistes, equally divided among ability levels, and the area is good for families. Over in Samoëns there is lots of off piste skiing and some challenging red/black runs for experienced skiers, with a range of other runs going down in gradient and difficulty, and a dedicated area especially for Children.
Flaine is by far the biggest resort in Grand Massif, and the one with the best snow record. Along with pistes for all levels, Flaine is also home to 'Jam Park' which attracts snowboarders and freestyle skiers. Morillon, home to downhill ski champion Antoine Dénériaz, is a mecca for families, who experience not just skiing, but alpine nature too. Finally there is Les Carroz, which has some of the longest tree lined runs in the ski region. In Timalets there is also floodlit skiing on a red piste, free to those with a Grande Massif lift pass. As you can see there really is something to tempt everyone!
The ski season in here tends to start in mid December, and can go on until mid/late April in some areas. Transfers to the regions ski resorts take about 1 hour 45 mins from Geneva airport, which is where most tour operators fly to. With skiing that caters for all, a cinema/art gallery, and many après ski restaurants and bars, travel to this ski area, and you're sure to have a 'happy holiday'.
