Les Carroz

Most skiers upon reaching the Grand Massif ski area will drive all the way up the mountain to Flaine. On the way there they will pass a pretty village at which point, those in the know, will stop off and set up camp for the week. This village is Les Carroz, a hidden gem that provides a traditional alternative to the better known resort above.

Perched on a plateau at 1140m, Les Carroz d’Arâches is a classic, small alpine resort. It is a spacious, sunny village with pavement cafés and interesting little shops centred around a main square. Les Carroz has a pleasantly warm and welcoming atmosphere, with excellent access to the slopes thanks to its ideal location in the heart of the Grand Massif.

The resort is family friendly and benefits from the fact many live here all year round. Les Carroz boasts a modest nightlife with only a few bars and certainly isn't the place for world class apres ski. When it comes to restaurants however the resort is home to more than one great Savoyarde mountain hut.

As part of the Grand Massif ski area Les Carroz has direct access to 265km of varied slopes that really do have something for everyone. Up at Flaine beginners can use the excellent nursery slopes, while intermediates and experts alike can find more than enough to enjoy in the notorious Flaine bowl. You won't need to worry about snow either as the area almost always has great coverage.

You don't have to head all the way up to Flaine to enjoy good slopes however. The immediate area is characterised by gorgeous, densely wooded slopes that wind their way down to the village. There are a few red runs but most are blue, making it perfect for relaxed cruising. They also offer protection from snow storms, meaning even during a white out you can get some skiing in.

There are some great mountain restaurants and bars in the immediate area to enjoy. In particular, try the Igloo and Chalet les Molliets if you are looking for an Alpine lunch. Then head home at the end of the day via the Plein Soleil run in order to stop off at the Anfionne for a well earned beer.

Being an Alpine village rather than a resort means Les Carroz, unlike its purpose built counterparts, is not deserted during the Summer. There are plenty of activities to suit everyone including large amounts of hiking and mountain biking trails. If you are up to it you can even cycle all the way to Flaine, enjoying the outstanding views as you go.

For golfers, there is an 18 hole course in between Les Carroz and Flaine set at an impressive 1,900m above sea level. Open from July to September, this challenging course comes bathed in sunlight along with a picturesque setting. As well as the course you can hone your skills on the practice area, driving range and putting green, before retiring to the clubhouse.

If you're looking for a bit more adventure then there are a variety of water sports on offer ranging from hydrospeeding to white water rafting. You can even try your hand at paragliding. For something less extreme there is tennis and horse back riding, and for relaxing there is an aquacentre and spa.