Samoëns is a charming village in the Haute-Savoie region of France. Not just perfect for skiing and snow fun in the winter, in the summer it’s just like living in a large playground. There is so much to do, the only problem is deciding which activities to pick.
Hiking
Explore marked mountain trails and stop at mountain refuges offering fabulously authentic lunches. You can hire a pack donkey which makes longer hikes accessible for groups of all sizes and ages and allows you to go further and faster by carrying equipment and young children
Road Cycling
There are some great cycling routes in the area with stunning views. The base of the Col de Joux Plane is right in the village, it’s a regular on the Tour de France circuit. The 14 km climb will test even the best riders, but the view at the top makes it all worthwhile. There are also lots of easier routes too but always be prepared for some climbing – this is the Alps after all.
Mountain biking
You can check out many of the published itineraries and follow the marked mountain trails or you can book a guide. The Ski-lifts are utilised in the summer to get you and your bike to the top of the mountains and then you can blast some great descents. They’re graded just like ski slopes, so you really can pick the best options for your ability. Or you can enjoy some of the tracks along the valley if you fancy a gentler ride. There really is something for everyone.
Parapenting
Samoëns is ideal for paragliding, and by booking a tandem flight you can discover the pure joy of flying like a bird with views that will take your breath away. Depending on the conditions, take-off is a few simple steps or sometimes it might be necessary to run a couple of metres! If you fancy an extra thrill your pilot will happily perform a few aerobatic tricks before landing back in Samoëns.
Canyoning
Canyoning is an adventure activity for all ages and you don’t need any previous experience. It really is great fun and something completely different. Just slip into your wetsuit and get ready to jump, swim, slide and abseil your way down a natural alpine canyon.
Via Ferrata
A combination of rock climbing and hiking, Via Ferrata is a route of iron cables and ladders. It enables inexperienced climbers to access a challenging route in total safety as you are attached securely to the rock face at all times. It’s a bit like “assisted” rock climbing and is guaranteed to get your heart pumping!
White water rafting
This is a “must-do” summer sport for the whole family! Pull on your wetsuit, listen to the instructions from your English-speaking guide and before you know it you’ll find yourself alternating between laughing, screaming and shouting as you ride the waves, bounce off a few rocks, swim and splash each other during various calmer stretches. It really is a fun few hours.
And, if you want more fun you can find the following in and around Samoëns: swimming in the freshwater lakes or the outdoor pool, tennis, pony trekking, horse riding, paintball, high ropes, a zip line, mini golf, archery and much much more.
