About Samoens           The five skiing areas of the Grand Massif (all of which are linked by 265km of pistes) include Flaine, Les Carroz, Morillon, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheva and Samoëns, a ski resort listed by the French historic monuments agency, which is directly linked to one of the most beautiful ski areas in France. At the heart of the valley of the Haut-Giffre, just over an hour away by road from Geneva, the ski resort of Samoëns nestles at the foot of the majestic Criou mountain. This authentic mountain village is a short distance from the glacial cirque of Fer à Cheval, one of the most splendid limestone sites in the Alps.     The only ski resort to be listed by the "Caisse des Monuments Historiques" as a "Land of Art and History", Samoëns has remained unspoilt by tourist developments . Samoëns together with its nine surrounding hamlets, all situated at about 700 metres above sea level, not only has an exceptionally rich heritage, but also a thriving life throughout the year. This is not a purpose built resort. Besides recharging one's batteries and enjoying a change of scene, holidaymakers can try out a host of new activities. Labelled as a " Station P’tits Montagnards " by Ski France, Samoëns is an ideal family destination, with all-in services and products available to make things easy. Besides being an excellent place to snuggle up in front of a log fire, or go for a gentle walk, Samoëns is also the place for serious sport, situated as it is right in the middle of the Grand Massif, which also includes the resorts of Morillon, Flaine, Sixt Fer à Cheval and Les Carroz. There are some 265 km of pistes, between 700 and 2500 m, covering one of the most spectacular skiing areas in the Alps. And if the sublime beauty of the landscape isn't enough, the region also boasts a really good snow record, thanks to its geographic position. For beginners and experts alike, and all kinds of winter sports, the ski area can compete with any of the better known resorts. (Click on the image to download a map of the area in PDF format. The Villa Monette Apartments are situated in the area marked in red) Ski area open from : December 2006 to April 2007       Getting to Samoens       For many people, low cost airlines are the best bet for a cheap and rapid journey to Samoëns. These flights are growing all the time and there are now at least four different companies offering budget flights to Geneva from 14 different British cities. It’s worth shopping around, and if possible book in advance for a good deal. When you arrive in Geneva, you have a choice of transport to get you to Samoëns. You can either travel by taxi, which will cost about € 39 per adult (based on a minimum of two people), and € 20 per child and which should be booked in advance, or you can hire a car. This can be equipped with snow tyres and ski rack on request. Car hire booking is usually done at the same time as you book your flight. Geneva airport is about an hour and a quarter by car from Samoëns.   For More Information Click Here           Children           Holidaying in France offers a great experience for parents and children alike. Children are generally welcomed wholeheartedly, and great efforts are made to ensure that they are as well catered for as their adult companions. It is possible for parents of young children to enjoy as many hours skiing as they wish, safe in the knowledge that their children are being well looked after and entertained, even if they are too young to learn to ski. Samoëns has some of the best facilities in the region for young children and babies from three months old.         For further information on the area visit our useful links page.