1. Destinations
2. Europe
3. France
4. Samoëns

Samoëns

Samoëns is the only resort in France to be designated a historical monument. There are medieval fountains, nine chapels dating back to the 15th century, and many other shrines and rustic buildings. Samoëns has a long tradition of stonecutters, and evidence of that is visible everywhere.

While there has been recent development in the area, Samoëns has maintained its rustic charm. There are more than 25 restaurants, including the La Cheminée cafe and Le Bois de Lune, which tend to be filled with more locals than tourists. There isn't much nightlife to speak of, but there is at least one nightclub, and Covey's Irish Pub is popular with expats.

Skiing in Samoëns is geared mostly toward intermediate and advanced skiers, as the vertical rise is large, but there are gentler slopes for beginners. There are fewer high-tech amenities, but many activities you won't find in other resorts, like horse and carriage rides, farm tours at the Ecomuseum Farm le Clos Parchet, and the nearby national park Cirque du Fer-a-Cheval, which offers white water rafting, kayaking, hiking and mountain climbing. The town also hosts a weekly market, and there is a public pool and waterslide which contributes to Samoëns' popularity as a summer destination.

While it is possible to take the SAT bus from Geneva or Cluses, having a car is the best way to get to Samoëns.

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