Halfway between Annecy and Chamonix lies the small resort of La Clusaz. Every year, La Clusaz attracts a large number of skiers from all over Europe, who have grown to love its well-looked after slopes and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re touring the region or travelling specifically to ski, consider taking a day or two to experience some of the things that make La Clusaz so unique.
Guided Tours
If you want to get a feel for the town, consider going on a guided tour. They leave from the village hall and will give you an opportunity to experience the inner life of the resort, as well as to learn a little about its history. The tours take place in the morning, and the clear mountain air and early sunshine make it a perfect start of the day.
If you’d like to have a look outside the town, we’d suggest visiting Col des Aravis. This dramatic mountain pass boasts breathtaking views (if you’re able, try to watch Mont Blanc at sunset and you’ll see it bathed in a reddish glow), as well as the tiny Church of Saint Anne. Before hiking in the mountains though, please do ensure that every member of your party is trained in crevasse rescue, and consider hiring a qualified guide.
Arts & Crafts
La Clusaz has some excellent spots to feed your artistic side. If you’d like to take a painting lesson, then visit Le Peintre du Coin: they teach painting in various media, including acrylic, pastels, oils and, interestingly, wax painting, in which hot or cold wax is applied to canvas or wood. It takes place in the village centre and offers both single lessons and whole-day courses.
89 Chemin des Chevriers
74220
La Clusaz
+33 4 50 02 49 65
Also conveniently located close to the centre of the village is Atelier des Belettes. Here, they offer one hour creative workshops, with the opportunity to paint on ceramics. They cater to children as young as 5 years old, meaning that Atelier des Belettes is a great opportunity to get the kids involved in some art.
La Chavinette
111 Place de l’Eglise
74220
La Clusaz
+33 6 60 06 43 20
While these are some of our favourite things about La Clusaz, do remember that the resort has plenty of other things on offer, such as a cinema, plenty of other hiking routes, and, of course, winter sports. Whatever takes your fancy, you’re sure to find something memorable to do at La Clusaz.
How to Get to La Clusaz
For the smoothest, most relaxed start to your holiday, we suggest booking a Geneva airport taxi. It will be waiting when you arrive, so the kids won’t have to get bored waiting while you arrange a taxi on the spot. Simply throw your bags in the boot, get in the car and allow your driver to take your tribe to the resort.
There are no public transport links between Geneva airport and La Clusaz, but if you’d like to drive yourself, it only takes around an hour over the A40 or the A41. Either way, remember that you’ll need to pay a toll and cross the Franco-Swiss border along your way.
Where to Stay
Chambres d’Hôtes Le Barna – Set in a historic nineteenth century building, Chambres d’Hôtes le Barna promises comfort and delicious breakfast at a bargain price. Only a few minutes on foot to the ski slopes and a little over five minutes by car to the centre of the village, the location is perfect for those hoping to ski as well as those hoping to enjoy the village.
Guest House Les Rhodos – Perfect for those travelling with children AND pets due to the hotel’s animal-friendly policies, Guest House Les Rhodos is a perfect mid-range hotel due to its comfortable, spacious rooms and on-site restaurant. Les Rhodos is also well-placed for hikers, making it excellent for anyone hoping to visit Col des Aravis.
Au Coeur du Village – Those hoping for luxurious accommodations should have a look at the beautiful Au Coeur du Village. The hotel offers suites that feature their own lounge and balcony, complete with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains, and the spa area is second to none.
