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- Destinations
- Europe
- France
- French Alps
- Flaine
Flaine
Probably because it was purpose-built, the holiday destination
of Flaine is one of the most user-friendly ski resorts in France:
compact, with easy access to the pistes, and a location that
ensures exceptional snow conditions. Flaine is situated beneath
Mont Blanc, near Geneva, at the gateway to 'Le Grand Massif', one
of the best ski and snowboard areas of France. From the nursery
slopes, to an easy glide on the 8.5-mile (14km) blue Cascade run or
the off-piste challenge of the Combe de Gers, Flaine is a
trend-setting family-orientated resort that caters for all levels
of skiers and boarders.
Consisting of concrete apartment blocks built on three levels
along the slopes at an altitude of 5,250 feet (1,600m) in the
centre of a natural bowl, this, the youngest resort in the French
Alps, may not sound particularly appealing. Flaine may not present
the archetypical image of the Alpine village, but it has been
architecturally designed for comfort and convenience, and visitors
are amazed at how the buildings blend in with the limestone of
their surroundings. The three levels, Flaine-Foret, Flaine-Forum
and Flaine-Front de Neige, are connected by elevators and
pedestrian trails. The centre is car-free, with restaurants, bars
and services grouped around two central shopping plazas. All
activities are either close and easily accessible, or in the resort
centre. There is also a cultural centre where classical and jazz
music events are scheduled, a library and art gallery; children are
particularly well catered for. Though not a fashionable
destination, Flaine is increasing in popularity, particularly as a
family ski resort.
Information & Facts
Activities
Off the slopes Flaine offers many diversions to holidaymakers
looking for a bit of diversity. There is a cinema, ice-rink,
swimming pool, fitness centre, bowling alley and indoor climbing
wall. Snowshoeing and ice driving are popular.
Language
French is the official language.
Money
The Euro (EUR) is the official currency in France. Currency can
be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and some large hotels,
though you will get a better exchange rate at the ATMs. Major
credit cards are widely accepted, as are travellers cheques,
particularly in major tourist destinations. Foreign currency is not
accepted.
Negatives
While the skiing is great for novices and intermediates, experts
might find it lacks challenge. Although the scenery is magnificent,
Flaine lacks the charm and atmosphere of a traditional Alpine
resort.
Night Life
Being primarily a family holiday resort, Flaine is not a hectic
party spot. Après ski is enjoyed mainly at the two most popular
pubs, The White Grouse and The Flying Dutchman, both with a good
atmosphere. Le Skifun offers some low-key disco action. Les Cimes
has karaoke twice a week.
Restaurants
Most holiday visitors to Flaine come on package deals, which
include dining in the hotel, but for those who want a change of
scene, Flaine has about two dozen establishments offering a variety
from typical French cuisine, traditional fondues or pizza and
snacks. Good choices for basic French fare are Les Chalets du
Michet, which operates from a converted cowshed, or La Perdrix
Noire. Limes Rock Café has good value meals, and Chez Daniel, where
you can sizzle steaks on hot rocks, is famous for its crêpes.
Shopping
Holidaymakers do not come to Flaine to shop, but to ski, as is
evidenced by the fact that this is not a resort sporting designer
boutiques or glitzy malls. Shopping arcades contain the necessities
for visitors; if you forgot your sunglasses or gloves, you can
easily buy some. There is a supermarket and bakery for
self-caterers, and services like a post office and hair-stylist.
Serious shoppers will have to save their credit cards for a spree
in Geneva on the way home.
Time
Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 between last Sunday in March and
last Sunday in October).