Skier on tree-lined wide piste with big mountain view near the Col de Merdassier.

La Clusaz

Massif des Aravis, Haute-Savoie, French Alps

Close to both Annecy and Geneva, from which it has long attracted large numbers of recreational skiers. There are swift transfers from Geneva airport, and this is one of the closest areas for drivers from the UK.

Despite a relatively modest altitude, snowfalls tend to be reliable enough to ensure long seasons.

Just above the village is the famous Col des Aravis (gateway to the Val d'Arly) on the Route des Grandes-Alpes, while further up the valley is Le Grand Bornand, included in the Aravis lift-pass.

View of approaching cabin of gondola lift above La Clusaz, with village below and mountain backdrop.

The Ski Area

  • Ski amid the natural beauty in Manigod and Beauregard sectors.
  • For more challenging terrain head for the Massif de Balme.

Experienced skiers will opt for the Aravis lift-pass, which adds shuttle-linked le Grand Bornand to the mix, along with a subtle change of style and scenery. La Clusaz’s own skiing, though, is surprisingly varied. You’ll discover great natural beauty among the wooded flanks of both Manigod and Beauregard sectors (much of it Blue-graded, and a good place to start the day) and some steeper Reds nearby in the Etale and Aiguille areas. More challenging, gradient-wise, are the flanks of the Massif de Balme, which has hosted speed-skiing record attempts and whose snow quality holds up well later in the day. One particularly inspired feature is the provision of long return runs, graded from Green to Black, allowing skiers of all abilities to end their days in real style.

Lift-wise, the system works well and the signs of investment are clear enough. Here and there, though, you'll still encounter an important link served by a slow drag-lift, which won’t suit everyone.

Some major changes from winter 2017/18: the Crêt du Merle chairlift has been upgraded to a 6-seater detachable with a new departure station including the ticket office, sports club, ski lockers and an access ramp on the front-de-neige for people with reduced mobility.

Resort Information

Altitude : 1100m - 2600m
La Clusaz
Pistes Total:
125 km
18 Green
30 Blue
29 Red
7 Black
Ski Resort Lifts : 49
29 Draglifts
13 Chairlifts
1 Télémix Gondola/Chairlift
4 Gondolas
1 Cable Cars
Massif des Aravis
Pistes Total:
211 km
Bar chart of ski piste percentages in the Aravis ski area, French Alps.
33 Green
43 Blue
46 Red
12 Black
Ski Domain Lifts: 77

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Wide view of La Clusaz rooftops against a backdrop of the snow-covered Aravis mountains

The Ski Village

  • Traditional village centre with chalet-style accommodation.
  • Get away from it all in small, more remote villages.

Despite being far from small, the main village has been careful to preserve its traditional Savoyard look and feel. The skyline is still dominated by the 18th-century belltower of the Eglise Sainte-Foy, and a high proportion of visitor accommodation is in individual mountain chalet style. At nightfall the village looks a picture and there's plenty of choice for those in search of nightlife, although the influx of day-skiers can create traffic problems and fill public car-parking areas (most of which are payable). Frequent free shuttle-buses serve less-central park areas, however. For a dramatically simpler option in magical surroundings, consider a base away from things over in the Manigod or Merdassier areas (and pack snow-chains if you’ll be driving there).

Staying There

Value for Money Accommodation Dining Out Nightlife Village Charm

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Skiers and ski instructor around debutant area in La Clausaz ski area

Why go skiing in La Clusaz ?

Most levels of skier, with particular appeal for those looking for traditional character, both on and off the mountain, without compromising the skiing experience. The local mountains offer chocolate-box scenery, yet are big enough to provide some surprisingly long runs – along with some surprisingly steep ones, too. It’s a solid choice for mixed-ability groups and those improving their skill and fitness levels. Beginners have a safe, self-contained area just beside the Beauregard gondola, on the other side of which is the Jardin d’Enfants children’s area.

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Skiing There

Beginners / Families Intermediates Advanced / Expert Mountain Scenery

Snowboarding

Designed for 3 levels with good variety. Family fun zone.
1 Snowparks
1 Snowboarder Cross


Cross-Country Skiing

24 loops and 7km link to Grand Bornand
86km Cross-Country and Nordic Ski Trails

Handiski...

  • La Clusaz is a designated Handiski station and will offer advice to people who plan to visit.
  • ESF have specialist instructors, trained to welcome people with disabilities, reduced mobility or sensory impairment. Equipment is included in the lesson fee (tandem-ski, GMS, dual and uniski ...) Contact ESF +33 (0)4 50 02 56 83 to reserve equipment and to book an instructor.
  • There's a comprehensive access guide to La Clusaz ( in .pdf format and French) including details for all services, hotels, shops etc.

icon-smileyYes please...

  • Classic Alpine town in an incomparable location.
  • Terrain for everyone.
  • Family Fun Zone in secure area for initiation into freestyling.
  • Accommodation for most budgets including expanding luxury sector, in a choice of settings.
  • Party vibe if you want it.
  • Shuttle bus links other Aravis resorts of Le Grand Bornand and Saint-Jean de Sixt.
  • One of the shortest journeys for those driving from the UK.
  • Short transfers from Geneva flights or TGV rail connection in Annecy.
  • Superb destination for short break skiing.

icon-frowneyYes but...

  • It’s not that high.
  • Weekends bring lots of traffic and pressure on local car-parks (which are pricey).

icon-winkingOur Tips

  • Buy your lift-pass in advance to avoid Sunday morning ticket queues created by day-skiers.
  • The snow in the Balme sector holds up well for afternoon skiing in spring.

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Practical Information

Tried and testedHotel Alpen Roc

La Clusaz

Alpen Roc hotel, La Clusaz, typical room with balcony

An attractive chalet style hotel with fabulous views over the village to the slopes. Its location, just 150m from the lifts make this central hotel really convenient for skiers and great for strolling out in the evening to enjoy the nearby bars and restaurants. The hotel has a heated indoor pool, sauna, fitness room and beauty, spa and balneotherapy treatment area - perfect to soothe those aching limbs.
The buffet style breakfast is plentiful and delicious and is served in the large, sunny restaurant on the ground floor. In the evenings, you can dine here and enjoy traditional cuisine whilst admiring the panoramic views.
Parking spaces are extremely limited so expect to use one of the nearby car parks (payable).

Enquiries and bookings:
Peak Retreats
023 9283 9310
reservations@peakretreats.co.uk.


Hotel & Spa Au Coeur du Village

La Clusaz

Hotel and Spa Au Couer du Village, La Clusaz, typical room.

This luxury 5* Hotel & Spa, one of the finest in the Alps, is located in the centre of the village with direct access to the ski-lifts. There are 50 luxury suites, all with lounge and balcony and indulgent balneo bathrooms. They are beautifully decorated in a blend of old wood and chic contemporary mountain style with high quality fittings and equipment and luxury soft furnishings.
The facilities at Au Coeur du Village include an indoor heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and a super Spa offering sumptuous treatments including massages and body scrubs.
The bar/lounge area with its attractive central fireplace is the ideal place to relax and unwind after a day skiing. The restaurant offers a refined cuisine based on organic locally sourced produce in an attractive setting.

Enquiries and bookings:
Peak Retreats
023 9283 9310
reservations@peakretreats.co.uk.


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Relax at the Spa

After an exhilarating day on the slopes or even just for a break, relax in one of the many wellness centres which offer saunas, steam baths, balneotherapy and massages.

Cristal Spa : for indulgence
The Cristal Spa in the Au Coeur du Village 5* hotel in La Clusaz has undergone a transformation. The spa now has suspended seating with relaxing cocoons and nostalgic swinging seats, all in a light wood setting with soft natural lighting. www.cristalspa.fr From 65 € per treatment

Deep Nature Spa : for cosiness
Visit the Hotel Chamois and discover its spa with refined and stylish decor. Take advantage of the daytime tarifs for a Spa Entry and Aquatic Circuit and experience a water circuit designed by Serge Blanco: a 160 m² pool with hydro-massaging jet streams, an aquatic upstream corridor, a swan-neck fountain, and a space for deckchairs with water jets. The cosy and welcoming treatment area contains eight cabins, including two doubles. Deep Nature Spa Prices from 21€

Spa Nuxe : for the experience
The 4* St-Alban Hotel is at the heart of the resort and has a unique atmosphere created to resemble a luxury English club. Combined with a Nuxe spa and skishop, a visit here is an unbeatable hotel experience. Don’t miss out on the chic bar, the central element of the hotel, for luxury snacking and elegant evening cocktails. www.hotel-st-alban.com Treatments from 60€


Tried and testedSki-Joëring

Ski-joëring was initially used by those who combined a love of horses with the need to work. Be transported back in time accompanied by these wonderful animals, and discover a completely different aspect to winter sports. Even beginners (it helps if you ski) will soon be able to go for a ride through the wild mountains, away from it all and in near-silence. You are shown how to control your horse and should soon master the simple techniques required as you begin to enjoy the thrill of ski-joëring. www.aravis-equitation.com/activites/ski-joering – From 29€/per person


Try Reblochon Cheese

Farmers in La Clusaz maintain the tradition of local cheese making, producing Reblochon cheese every day of the year. Make sure you stop off at one of the farms along your way to taste the delicious cheese surrounded by some of the most impressive views in the region. Every year, La Clusaz serves 35,000 of the famous Alpine favourite dish – the Tartiflette!


Tried and testedLa Ferme

1078 Route du Col des Aravis
La Clusaz
Tel: +33 (0)4 50 02 50 50

There’s a really warm and welcoming atmosphere in La Ferme, which is situated on the Crêt du Merle piste but is also accessible on foot. Dine here any time of year to savour local specialities, pizzas, salads and fish.
We enjoyed the friendly ambiance and loved the beautifully-presented food. La Ferme is also an hotel, with rooms starting from €85 in low season.


Tried and testedLe Bercail

3987 Route du Crêt du Merle
La Clusaz
Tel: +33 (0)4 50 02 43 75

Situated at 1450m altitude, reaching Le Bercail in the evening in winter is something of an adventure. You can telephone and get a lift on a snow-mobile, but we took snow-shoes and walked down the piste, after driving as high as we could on the snow-covered road (there’s parking at the Crêt du Merle). After everyone has made such an effort to arrive, the atmosphere is convivial and there is plenty of local mountain specialities to try including Beignets de pommes de terre, Tomme blanche (very fresh cheese), Reblochon (of course) and mountain boudin (rustic sausages).

You’ll need a minimum of 10 people for the evening sittings, which start at €35 per person including drinks and transport. Not really suitable for vegetarians…


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After a quick and easy reservation everything will be waiting for you when you get to your destination.

You get to choose the shop and there’s a BEST-PRICE GUARANTEE.

Make BIG savings by booking online today!

Getting there

Follow the A41 to Annecy (north) then the D909 to Thones, Saint-Jean-de-Sixt then La Clusaz. Alternatively, follow the A40 to Bonneville via Geneva, where you take the exit signed Aravis Resorts.

By air
The nearest airport is Geneva (50km), where you can transfer by bus on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. To reserve your journey see www.gare-routiere.com, expect to pay around €56 return.
Lyon airport (150km) has bus connections every day by reservation, see www.altibus.com to book. Expect to pay around €75 return.

By train
Travel by Eurostar to Paris then fast train TGV from Paris to Annecy. (3½ hrs). Transfer options are given in detail on the Tourist Office website.

Book your TGV fast train from Paris or Eurostar’s ski train direct to the French Alps with OUI.sncf

Transfers
Visit Ski-Lifts for the best range of ski transfer destinations from airports and main rail stations.

Cheap flights to the Alps

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Airport Transfers

Ski-Lifts offer the widest range of airport transfers to ski resorts in France, from economy shared transfers for budget-conscious travellers, right through to luxury limousines. They also offer coach transfers for larger groups.

Insight: La Clusaz

Wide view from restaurant terrace of mountain with skiers at La Clusaz

Insight: La Clusaz

We last skied in La Clusaz a long time ago, and much has changed. The replacement of the Beauregard cable-car by a high-speed gondola really improved access to the eastern terrain where we and many others like to begin our days’ skiing. The ride up provides a dramatic overview of the village and its unmistakable setting, before dropping us at 1635m. Ahead is a large children’s area, while to the left and right tree-lined Blue or Black pistes head all the way back down again, but we take the gentle Blue-graded run over to the nearby Croix-Fry area.

The landscapes, looking pristine after a long night of continuous snowfall, are a picture, and Croix-Fry sits among them like a tiny ski-village in a world of its own.

The Manigod valley, La Clusaz

The beautiful Manigod valley after fresh snow.


A fresh dusting of overnight snow extends all the way to the valley floor from the distant summits of the Etale Massif  and its neighbour L'Aiguille.

The distant summits of the Etale Massif and its neighbour L'Aiguille.

Views of Manigod

The landscapes, looking pristine after a long night of continuous snowfall, are a picture, and Croix-Fry sits among them like a tiny ski-village in a world of its own. There’s another beginner area here plus a selection of Red and Blue runs, but we take a lift up and over the Tête de Cabeau (1650m), where we pause briefly to take in the definitive overview of the Manigod valley before dropping into the Merdassier sector. The change of mood is accentuated by the dramatic backdrop of the Massif de l’Etale looming some 2400m before us.

The Col de Merdassier is a pleasant area, and we take the Chevreuil lift back up to the Tête de Cabeau to repeat the run before taking an early lunch-break and moving across to confront L’Etale. The majority of runs on this side of the valley are Red-graded and served by drag-lifts, the steepest of which (Le Grand Chamois) hauls us up to a vertiginous viewpoint above a narrow adjoining valley. On the bracing run back down we peel off to join a gentle, Green-graded cruise round to the Grands Laquais drag-lift to join the Blue-graded Les Joux piste. Once down we transfer to the modern Transval cable-car across to the Combe des Juments. The onward haul via two chairlifts up to L’Aiguille (2257m) puts us way above the popular Crête du Merle area and allows us to pick up the Red-graded Fernuy piste for the long and exhilarating plunge to the foot of the La Balme gondola.


Skier above Merdassier, La Clusaz

Picturesque intermediate runs above Merdassier.


Piste-side chalets, La Clusaz

Piste-side chalets in La Clusaz.

Côte 2000

The snow below the 2477m Col de Balme holds up well in the afternoon, encouraging the kind of E-W progression which has brought us so far from our starting-point. It’s worth the effort, as we discover while exploring as much of the Red and Blue-graded terrain above us as time allows before we have to think of our return route. We could be sensible and take the relaxing La Motte return Green run back to the upper end of the village, but instead ride the Fernuy gondola up to Côte 2000. By now it’s getting late, and we emerge from the gondola into a bitter wind, determined to let our skis run on the succession of Red and Blue pistes which will take us back to where we began. It’s a long way… much further than we’d imagined, but doesn’t involve another lift – a reassuring thought at the end of the day.

Return to La Clusaz

By the time we’re cradling steaming mugs of vin-chaud back in a snug piste-side bar in La Clusaz’s charming village we’re in no doubt that you can cover a lot of ground in a determined day’s skiing here. With the benefit of a longer visit we could have seen even more and explored each of the areas in much greater depth. Next time, maybe; for now we’re happy to settle for being hugely impressed. MountainPassions heart icon


Coming at it from a different angle: L'Envers is the gentlest of return runs and will drop you  at the very foot of the Beauregard gondola.

L'Envers is the gentlest of return runs and will drop you at the very foot of the Beauregard gondola.