Nestling in the Giffre valley, Samoëns is an ideal destination for enjoying the mountains in summer. Whether you enjoy hiking, mountain biking or simply relaxing in the heart of nature, Samoëns promises an unforgettable experience.

Here’s some information and advice to help you make the most of your stay 🙂

Before coming to Samoëns, what should you pack? Here’s some advice:

Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your stay in the mountains. First of all, you need to choose a destination suited to your level and your desires. Then book your accommodation. Finally, pack your suitcase with comfortable clothes, good walking shoes, warm clothes for the cool nights, sunglasses, sun cream, a first-aid kit and everything else you need for a pleasant stay.

When is the best time to go to the mountains?

Choosing the right time to go to the mountains depends on a number of factors, including budget, availability, weather and personal preferences. Here are a few things to bear in mind when making your choice.

– Budget: accommodation prices vary according to the period. In general, the most expensive periods are school holidays. The cheapest periods are the beginning and end of the season, i.e. June and September. See our special offers.

– Availability: if you have work or family commitments, you may need to adapt your stay to suit your holiday dates. If you’re more flexible, you can take advantage of last-minute offers or off-season promotions.

– The weather: Summer in the mountains offers pleasant temperatures, from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. Days are warm but moderate, while evenings are cool and ideal for stargazing. Afternoons can bring sudden thunderstorms, adding a touch of unpredictability to the climate. Waterproof clothing is therefore recommended. The mountains in summer combine the mildness of sunny days with the coolness of the night and the beauty of the scenery.

How do I get to Samoëns?

There are several options for getting to Samoëns. You can take the train to Cluses, then a bus or taxi to Samoëns. You can also come by car via the A40 motorway, taking exit 18. If you prefer to fly, you can land at Geneva airport, about an hour’s drive from Samoëns. Once here, you can enjoy all the sporting activities the village has to offer in summer, including hiking, cycling, rafting and paragliding. Samoëns is an ideal destination for mountain lovers.

By plane: the nearest airport is Geneva, around 80km from Samoëns. There are regular shuttle buses from the airport to the resort, or you can hire a car locally.

By train: The nearest station is Cluses, around 20km from Samoëns. There are buses from the station to the resort, or you can take a taxi.

By car: Samoëns can be reached via the A40 motorway, Cluses-Scionzier exit. Follow the signs for Taninges, then Samoëns. Good to know: all car parks in Samoëns are free.

Are there any car parks in Samoëns?

If you come to Samoëns by car, you can park easily. The resort has several free car parks close to the leisure centre, shops and accommodation.

How do I get to the walks?

There are several options for getting to the walks in the Montagnes du Giffre from Samoëns. You can take your car – there are car parks at the start of all the walks.
Or you can take the free shuttle buses that run between the village of Samoëns and the start of the hikes.

What to do in Samoëns if you’re a family?

Samoëns is an ideal destination for families with children. In summer, you can take advantage of the magnificent leisure centre, a paradise for children with its swimming pool, lake, games, tennis court… and a wealth of activities and entertainment throughout the season.

What to do in Samoëns if you’re sporty?

Samoëns is an ideal destination for sports enthusiasts who love the mountains. In summer, you can enjoy a wide range of activities, including hiking, road biking, mountain biking, caving, paragliding and more…. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find activities to suit your level and interests. Samoëns offers you a sporting holiday with a change of scenery in the heart of the Alps.

What can you do in Samoëns if you’re a contemplative person?

Samoëns is an ideal destination for lovers of nature and tranquillity. In summer, you can enjoy the beauty of the countryside, the charm of the village and the richness of its heritage. Here are just a few of the things to do in Samoëns in summer:

– Take a walk in the Giffre valley, discovering the local flora and fauna. You can admire the peaks of the Haut-Giffre, the Fer-à-Cheval cirque and the many waterfalls.

– Discover Samoëns’ cultural heritage by visiting the church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption. You can also admire the work of the stonemasons who shaped the village. Guided tours are scheduled every Tuesday morning.

– Relax in a spa or wellness centre, with treatments based on natural products, massages, whirlpool baths or saunas.

Myth: Are summer sports expensive?

Going to the mountains doesn’t require a huge budget: all you need is accommodation and good walking boots. And as a reminder, planning ahead is the best way to find the best prices.

To sum up 🙂

1. Hiking: Samoëns is part of the Montagnes du Giffre, a vast hiking area.
2. Other activities : In addition to hiking, Samoëns also offers other summer activities such as mountain biking, road cycling, white water sports, caving, paragliding, etc.
6. Accommodation: If you haven’t already booked accommodation, there are a range of options, from hotels to chalets and rental flats. Remember to book in advance.
7. Transport: The village is relatively small and can be explored on foot. However, if you are staying outside the centre, you may find it useful to use the free shuttle buses that run regularly.
8. Culture and history: Take time to explore Samoëns’ heritage. The village has a rich history with several monuments, such as the church, the Grenette, the town hall, the bourgeois houses and the work of the stone masons.
9. Gastronomy: Enjoy Savoyard specialities! Dishes such as fondue, raclette and tartiflette are not to be missed. There are plenty of restaurants and bars to suit all budgets. Don’t forget to book ahead.
10. Respect the environment: Respect the mountains and the environment. Don’t leave rubbish behind and stay on the marked trails.

Finally, make the most of your stay in Samoëns! It’s a beautiful place with lots to offer in summer.