Le Grand Massif: France's Underrated Alpine Giant

Esquiades.com is an Internet domain is registered by Viajes Para Ti, S.L.U., with CIF B55666952, registered in the Commercial Registry of Tarragona on Page 106 of Volume 1862 of the Companies Section, Leaf T-26395, 1st mark. Company located at Avda de Bellisens 42, Room 127-129, 43204 - Reus (Tarragona), phone number @@phone_en@@ and fax: 0034 977 270 159. Viajes Para Ti, S.L.U., has the necessary permits and licenses for the exercise of own a travel agency activities. The company is registered in the Register of Catalonia Tourism Occupation MD 169 GC-license.

In compliance with the provisions of Section 22.2 of the Information Society Services and Electronic Commerce Act (LSSI), and in alignment with the regulations in force, we hereby inform that ESQUIADES.COM uses cookies while browsing.

Cookies are small files that store information which is installed in your browser, or device. This information is saved for future visits you make to ESQUIADES.COM since they register the user’s activity while navigation (eg, date of last visit, browsing preferences, etc.), this is used to expedite the user navigation.

ESQUIADES.COM uses the following tyes of Cookies:

Our cookies

Cookie	Cookie type	Time of Expiry
save_grouper	Used to distinguish users for statistical purposes.	1 month
grouper_id	Used to distinguish users for statistical purposes.	1 month
all_skiers	Identifies whether all users in the booking are skiing or if someone is not.	1 day
user	Required to keep the user’s session active after logging in.	1 day
SkiID	Required to keep the user’s session active after logging in.	1 day
loguejat	Required to keep the user’s session active after logging in.	1 day
user_remember	Required to keep the user’s session active after logging in.	1 day
accept_cookies	Records whether the user has accepted the Esquiades cookie policy.	3 months
PHPSESSID	PHP session cookie that enables session variables to be stored on the web server. Essential for website functionality.	1 day
user-last-searches	Stores the user’s most recent searches.	3 days

Third party cookies

Certain third parties, such as Google, may process personal data collected through cookies and similar technologies in order to personalize content and advertising. For more details on how Google uses data, please visit their Business Data Responsibility page.

Provider	Cookie	Cookie type	Use it	Expiration
Google	1P_JAR	Advertising cookie containing a unique randomly generated value to distinguish browsers and devices. Used to measure ad performance and provide product recommendations based on statistical data.	Google Adwords	1 month
Google	ANID	Advertising cookie with a unique randomly generated value to distinguish browsers and devices. Used for measuring ad performance and providing product recommendations.	Google Adwords	1 year
Google	CONSENT	Advertising cookie containing a unique randomly generated value to distinguish browsers and devices. Used for measuring ad performance and providing product recommendations.	Google Adwords	1 year
Google	APISID	Used by Google to store user preferences and information when displaying pages with Google Maps.	Google Maps	2 years
Google	HSID	Used by Google to store user preferences and information when displaying pages with Google Maps.	Google Maps	2 years
Google	NID	Used to display geographic locations on Google Maps.	Google Maps	6 months
Google	OGPC	Supports visualization of geographic locations using Google Maps.	Google Maps	2 months
Google	SAPISID	Used by Google to store user preferences and information when displaying pages with Google Maps.	Google Maps	2 years
Google	SID	Used by Google to store user preferences and information when displaying pages with Google Maps.	Google Maps	2 years
Google	SSID	Used by Google to store user preferences and information when displaying pages with Google Maps.	Google Maps	2 years
Google	SIDCC	Provides services and extracts anonymous browsing information.	Google	3 months
Google	_ga	Distinguish users for statistical purposes.	Google Analytics	2 years
Google	_gid	Distinguish users for statistical purposes.	Google Analytics	24 hours
Google	_gat	Used to limit the percentage of requests through Google Tag Manager.	Google Analytics	1 minute
CloudFlare	__cfduid	Identifies trusted web traffic.	CloudFlare	1 year
Facebook	fbsr_*	Helps identify users who log in with their Facebook account.	Login with Facebook	1 year
Google	ACCOUNT_CHOOSER	Authentication cookies that remember the Google account previously used to log in and maintain sessions.	Google Accounts	2 years
Google	AEC	Security cookie ensuring that requests during a session are made by the user, not other sites.	Google	6 months
DoubleClick (Google)	DSID	Advertising purpose. Helps identify the user on non-Google sites and remember if you agreed to receive interest-based ads.	Google DoubleClick	10 days
Google	DV	Used for advertising and analytics purposes, linking user activity across devices.	Google	24 hours
DoubleClick (Google)	IDE	Advertising purpose. Used to improve and display relevant ads.	Google DoubleClick	1 year
Google	LSID	Authentication cookies that remember the Google account previously used to log in and maintain sessions.	Google Accounts	2 years
Google	OTZ	Used for advertising and analytics purposes, linking user activity across devices.	Google Analytics	1 month
Amazon Ads	ad-id	Advertising cookies that deliver relevant ads, measure performance, and manage privacy preferences.	Amazon Advertising	6 months
Amazon Ads	ad-privacy	Advertising cookies that deliver relevant ads, measure performance, and manage privacy preferences.	Amazon Advertising	2 years
DoubleClick (Google)	ar_debug	Cookie used to debug and optimize ad delivery.	Google DoubleClick	1 month
Facebook	datr	Security and advertising cookies that identify browsers, improve platform integrity, and deliver targeted ads.	Facebook	1 year
Twitter	guest_id	Used for user identification, ad personalization, and content recommendations.	Twitter	2 years
Twitter	guest_id_ads	Used for user identification, ad personalization, and content recommendations.	Twitter	2 years
Twitter	guest_id_marketing	Used for user identification, ad personalization, and content recommendations.	Twitter	2 years
Tiktok	_ttp	Tracking and analytics cookies used to measure ad performance, track behavior, and authenticate users.	TikTok Analytics	3 months
Tiktok	tt_chain_token	Tracking and analytics cookies used to measure ad performance, track behavior, and authenticate users.	TikTok	5 months
Tiktok	ttwid	Tracking and analytics cookies used to measure ad performance, track behavior, and authenticate users.	TikTok	11 months
Twitter (t.co)	muc_ads	Used for user identification, ad personalization, and content recommendations.	Twitter	2 years
Twitter	personalization_id	Used for user identification, ad personalization, and content recommendations.	Twitter	2 years
Facebook	sb	Security and advertising cookies that identify browsers, improve platform integrity, and deliver targeted ads.	Facebook	1 year
CloudFlare (t.co)	__cf_bm	Security cookie that manages traffic and filters malicious bots.	Cloudflare	30 minutes
Amazon CloudFront	CloudFront-Key-Pair-Id	Used to control access to restricted content and verify authenticity.	Amazon CloudFront	Varies by configuration
Amazon CloudFront	CloudFront-Policy	Used to control access to restricted content and verify authenticity.	Amazon CloudFront	Varies by configuration
Amazon CloudFront	CloudFront-Signature	Used to control access to restricted content and verify authenticity.	Amazon CloudFront	Varies by configuration
Google	SMSV	Used to link device usage and website visits to the user's Google account.	Google	309 days
Google	SOCS	Used to store the user's status regarding their cookie choices.	Google	13 months
Google	__Host-1PLSID	Used for user login via Google account.	Google	2 years
Google	__Host-3PLSID	Used for user login via Google account.	Google	2 years
Google	__Host-GAPS	Used for user login via Google account.	Google	2 years
Google Ads	Secure-1PAPISID	Used to create a visitor's interest profile and display relevant Google ads.	Google Ads	2 years
Google Ads	__Secure-1PSID	Used to display relevant and personalized Google ads.	Google Ads	2 years
Google Ads	Secure-1PSIDCC	Used to create a user profile and show relevant and personalized Google Ads.	Google Ads	1 year
Google	__Secure-1PSIDTS	Stores an encrypted timestamp to maintain user sessions and preserve user preferences.	Google	1 year
Google Ads	__Secure-3PAPISID	Used to create a visitor interest profile and display relevant Google ads.	Google Ads	2 years
Google Ads	Secure-3PSID	Used to display relevant and personalized Google ads.	Google Ads	2 years
Google Ads	Secure-3PSIDCC	Used to create a user profile and display relevant and personalized Google Ads.	Google Ads	1 year
Google	__Secure-3PSIDTS	Stores an encrypted timestamp to maintain user sessions and preserve user preferences.	Google	1 year
Facebook	_fbp	Security and advertising cookies that identify browsers, improve platform integrity, and deliver targeted ads.	Facebook	3 months
Google Analytics	_ga_F6BSWQWY45	Assigns a unique identifier to distinguish users.	Google Analytics	2 years
Google Analytics	_ga_S66E9HVXEC	Assigns a unique identifier to distinguish users.	Google Analytics	2 years
Google AdSense	_gcl_au	Stores and tracks ad conversions.	Google AdSense	3 months
TikTok	_tt_enable_cookie	Tracking and analytics cookies used to measure ad performance, track behavior, and authenticate users.	TikTok	13 months
Own website	cookies-accept	Records the user’s acceptance of cookies.	Own website	Varies according to configuration
TikTok	odin_tt	Tracking and analytics cookies used to measure ad performance, track behavior, and authenticate users.	TikTok	13 months
SendinBlue	sib_cuid	Identifies website visitors for marketing purposes.	SendinBlue	13 months
TikTok	user_web_id	Tracking and analytics cookies used to measure ad performance, track behavior, and authenticate users.	TikTok	13 months
TikTok	user_web_token	Tracking and analytics cookies used to measure ad performance, track behavior, and authenticate users.	TikTok	13 months

How to refuse the following browser’s cookies:
Google Chrome.
Internet Explorer.
Microsoft Edge.
Mozilla Firefox.
Safari.
Opera.

Search and Book

France

(40 destinations)

Les Deux Alpes

Alpe d'Huez

Tignes

View all resorts

Andorra

(3 destinations)

Grandvalira

Vallnord Pal-Arinsal

Ordino-Arcalís

Spain

(16 destinations)

Boí Taüll

Formigal

Port Ainé

View all resorts

Austria

(8 destinations)

Innsbruck

Stubai Glacier

St. Anton - Ski Arlberg

View all resorts

Switzerland

(11 destinations)

Zermatt International

Jungfrau Ski Region

Arosa Lenzerheide

View all resorts

Italy

(5 destinations)

Dolomiti Superski

Pontedilegno - Tonale (Adamello Ski)

Vialattea (Sestriere - Sauze d'Oulx)

View all resorts

All Ski Resorts

France

(2 destinations)

Hotels in the French Pyrenees

Hotels in the French Alps

Andorra

(1 destination)

Hotels in Andorra

Spain

(2 destinations)

Hotels in the Pyrenees

Hotels in Sierra Nevada

Austria

(1 destination)

Hotels in Austria

Switzerland

(1 destination)

Hotels in Switzerland

Italy

(1 destination)

Hotels in the Italian Alps

Portugal

(1 destination)

Hotels in Serra da Estrela

All hotels

Countries

France (40 destinations)

Andorra (3 destinations)

Spain (16 destinations)

Austria (8 destinations)

Switzerland (11 destinations)

Italy (5 destinations)

All Ski Resorts

Countries

France (2 destinations)

Andorra (1 destination)

Spain (2 destinations)

Austria (1 destination)

Switzerland (1 destination)

Italy (1 destination)

Portugal (1 destination)

All hotels

Oops, we didn't find any results matching your search. Try modifying the destination.

Well, it seems that our searcher has lost his way. As soon as he finds his compass he'll be back.

Where do you want to ski?

Homepage

Blog, News & ski tips

Esquiades Spotlight: Everything you need to know about skiing in Le Grand Massif

Published: May 27, 2025

Content

1 Five Ski Resorts, One Lift Pass

2 Slopes for Every Level

3 The Hidden Highlights

4 Après-Ski in Le Grand Massif

5 Our verdict: A Well-Rounded and Underrated Gem

When it comes to major ski areas in the French Alps, names like Les 3 Vallées, Paradiski, or Portes du Soleil are often the first to come to mind. They’re massive, world-renowned, and packed with international visitors. But just a little more under the radar lies Le Grand Massif — a surprisingly vast and varied ski domain that flies low on the mainstream tourist radar but delivers everything you'd expect from a top-tier alpine destination.

Nestled between Chamonix and Geneva. It’s easily accessible — just over an hour's drive from Geneva Airport — making it one of the most convenient big-mountain resorts to reach in France!

Five Ski Resorts, One Lift Pass

Le Grand Massif connects five unique resorts under one ski pass: Flaine, Les Carroz, Morillon, Samoëns, and Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval. In 1980, they partnered to form one of the largest linked ski areas in France, offering an impressive 265 km of slopes under one lift pass.

The beauty here is in the balance: you get high-altitude skiing in Flaine with altitudes reaching up to 2,500 m and snow-sure conditions all season round, and at the same time, you can enjoy the charm of traditional alpine villages like Samoëns or Sixt. Thanks to its north-facing orientation, the snow stays in great shape, often well into April.

Each resort has its own vibe. Flaine is ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers who want altitude, wide open bowls, and fast lifts. Les Carroz offers a friendly, family-focused feel with great access to the rest of the domain. Morillon and Samoëns are perfect for families, beginners, and those who appreciate picturesque alpine villages. And if you’re after peace, powder, and jaw-dropping scenery, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval is your quiet corner of paradise.

Slopes for Every Level

With more than 250km of slopes, there's plenty to choose from and whether you’re just learning or pushing your limits, there’s plenty to explore:

Many slopes are tree-lined, making them ideal in poor visibility, and there are several signature descents like the 14 km Cascades run (a gentle blue that winds down from Flaine to Sixt) and the thrilling off-piste Combe de Gers, a must for free riders.

The Hidden Highlights

Le Grand Massif boasts quality skiing and amazing sceneries. Thanks to its north-facing orientation, the snow stays in great shape, often well into April. The views are no less impressive: from the top of the Grandes Platières in Flaine, you’re treated to a full panoramic view of Mont Blanc. The domain is also home to one of the longest beginner-friendly forest runs in the Alps — Marvel, a 5 km green run through old pine forest.

On top of that, Grand Massif takes sustainability seriously. It was the first ski area in the world to be Green Globe-certified, with commitments to renewable energy, eco-responsible snow making, and preservation of its stunning natural surroundings.

Après-Ski in Le Grand Massif

Unlike some glitzy ski resorts, Le Grand Massif leans toward authentic après-ski experiences. You’ll find plenty of cosy mountain restaurants, traditional Savoyard dishes, relaxed wine bars, and local pubs with live music — especially in Samoëns and Les Carroz. For families, there are plenty of off-slope activities like ice skating, tobogganing, or evening walks under the stars.

While there are fun spots in Flaine and cozy bars in Samoëns and Les Carroz, this is not a party hotspot like Val Thorens or Tignes. It's more about quiet drinks and local ambiance than big nightlife.

Looking for livelier après-ski spots? Check out Le Flying Dutchman: A lively Dutch-run bar in Flaine Forêt, popular for its vibrant atmosphere and fun events like pub quizzes and karaoke nights. Want to dance the night away? Les Caves Nightclub is the place to be! Open from 23:00 to 05:00, seven days a week, it’s the place to head if you're after a night out.

Our verdict: A Well-Rounded and Underrated Gem

Le Grand Massif stands out as a diverse, snow-reliable, and family-friendly ski domain that is often overlooked in favour of French giants like Les 3 Vallées, Paradiski, or Portes du Soleil. However, its 265 km of slopes make it a solid alternative for those seeking a less commercial and more grounded experience.

If you value quality skiing without the mega-resort bustle, love exploring multiple connected villages, and are looking for a family-friendly, snow-sure resort with character, Le Grand Massif delivers exceptional value. It may not have the prestige of some of its larger neighbours, but it offers a genuine alpine experience that more than holds its own — especially for those in the know.

See Ski Offers in Le Grand Massif

23 years of experience in ski holidays

Over 203.048 reviews in 7 languages

Great prices for Ski Offers in Europe

Flexible Ski Packages

Available 24/7 - 365 days a year