summer activity holiday in samoens

Samoens offers a great selection of activities all within a few minutes walk of the village centre.  The new sports centre opened in 2007 with its large indoor climbing wall, indoor tennis and squash courts together with the 'Parc D'Activities' hosting dozens of activities for all the family.  The surrounding area offers endless summer activities set in the most magnificent scenery.  From June -September temperatures average between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, so you can enjoy everything from swimming in the lifeguarded mountain lakes and pools, to hiking, climbing, mountain biking and road biking, the region offers it all.

Mountain biking - The Grand Massif offers 4 lifts open in the summer and 69 marked trails of all levels.  In total there is over 600 km of marked tracks open throughout the summer.  Bikes for all levels can be rented in Samoens Village.

Road Biking - With 6 routes, ranging from 42km to 74km, all starting from Samoens, it is the ideal place to base when discovering the Grand Massif.   The Tour De France came through the village in 2006, then climbed the famous Col De Joux Plane to reach Morzine.  A popular route for visiting cyclists to tackle.

Walking - The area is spectacular for walkers either looking for a gentle stroll along the banks of the River Giffre and past waterfalls, or for serious hikes up to 3100m altitude, staying overnight in a refuge! There are hundreds of trails to suit all abilities with varying walk times.  With over 900km of marked trails its easy for all the family, you may also be interested in joining a guided group.

Activity weeks - If you wish to get a taster of a range of local activities, then you may wish to join an organised group with a qualified guide.  Here you can try rafting, canyoning, climbing, hiking and even pot holing.  These activities are booked through the mountain activity centre in Samoens.  For younger children, Samoens also have organised activity weeks, where they join a group of other locals and tourists in a fun packed adventure week.

Rock climbing - Lots of great climbing is available within minutes of the town including indoor and outdoor climbing walls for beginners and intermediates and overhangs for the experts.

Golf - There are a variety of 9 and 18 hole courses within easy reach of Samoens. They include a spectacular mountain course at Les Gets, a course at an altitude of 1900 metres at Flaine, amazing panoramic views at Avoriaz and at Lake Annecy the course overlooks a protected nature reserve. In addition there is a water driving range and putting green in Samoens itself and mini golf for the children.

Rafting/Canoeing - The Giffre River is perfect for a range of water activities, in particular rafting and canoeing. With a professional qualified instructor, you will be able to experience the thrills of the river and rapids without any previous experience.  Booked locally, Alps Accommodation guests receive discounts in the activity.

Water skiing & wake boarding - Experience water skiing on a private local lake and try out the certified slalom course.  Great for beginners and the experienced.  Booked through Alps Accommodation locally.

Parapenting - There are various options available to enjoy the magical experience of this sport. They range from single flights with a qualified instructor to 5-day paragliding courses.

Swimming - Samoens has a large open air swimming park with 3 pools and waterslides, it is set in 6000m2 of lawn enabling you to relax in stunning scenery.  Open daily from 10am until 7.15pm. The more adventurous can swim the rapids with a qualified instructor, equipped with float, flippers and wetsuit. Or if that is not enough try a swim in the designated surrounding mountain lakes, some of which have lifeguards during july and August.

Adventure Parks - Adventure assault courses can be experienced by all ages in Samoens and Morillon. Suspended bridges, climbing, rope slides and walkways high in the trees. A great way to experience a forest adventure in complete safety with qualified supervision.

Via ferrata - This is a cross between walking and climbing, opening up the mountain to a wider spectrum of people. The routes are equipped with cables, ropes and ladders which make the route a little easier, although it is a demanding activity and not for those with a fear of heights.

Other activities include Helicopter rides, Tennis, Horse riding, Fishing in river streams and lakes, Potholing, Archery, Jet skiing and more!

Day trips - Either reached with your own transport or by taking a coach or organised tour from Samoens, the following are just some of the many day trips available. Travel by cable car from Chamonix to reach the peak of “Aiguille du Midi” at nearly 4,000 metres, offering great views of Mont Blanc. Visit Annecy with it’s canals and flower decked quays and marvellous shopping. Or perhaps Lake Geneva , to visit the largest lake in Europe or Yvoire situated on the lakes of Geneva with its 14th Century village and garden of senses.

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