Outdoor
Mount Semnoz
So many winter sports to choose fromContrary to most winter sports resorts, the Semnoz offers Annecy locals the chance to enjoy a spectacular mountain for an all-day or half-day excursion. Just twenty minutes from Annecy by car or bus means easy access to a wide variety of winter sports at an affordable price. Facing the Bauges Mountains and Lake Annecy, the area is divided into two summit plateaus, one for cross-country skiing and the other for alpine skiing.
Panoramic views of the Alps
Located within the Bauges Mountains Natural Regional Park, Mount Semnoz lies within a protected area. From Crêt de Chatillon, the peak’s 1700 meter high point, enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the Aravis Mountains, the Jura Mountains, the Bauges Mountains, Mt. Blanc, as well as Lake Annecy and Lake Bourget. The road virtually crosses the summit, which allows everyone to set foot on the peak, if they wish.
Snow sports
Offering alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, a terrain park, the Semnoz has it all for anyone who wants to play in the snow: 18 downhill ski runs, 10 cross-country ski runs (40 km total), pedestrian trails, and a sledding area. The lift ticket system operates on an hourly rate (2 to 10 hours) allowing you to ski for however long you prefer.
© Monica Dalmasso
A unique experience, sleep in an igloo
Near the top of Mount Semnoz, just below the tree line, lies a small eco-friendly base camp that hosts overnight guests in alti-dome tents with panoramic roofs and wood stoves, as well as a dozen igloos (2 to 4 people), once the snow arrives. The evening begins with a 45-minute stroll on snowshoes through the forest using the moonlight to guide you. Nightfall in camp is a magical experience, with the low glow of the torches creating a warm and cozy atmosphere.
Choose from one of several options: head back down the hill just after cocktails, stay for dinner (a traditional Savoyard meal), or enjoy the experience to its fullest, spending the evening by the campfire and staying the night.
© Alpes-Bivouac.com – Lionel Monticot / Unusual evening
Great ideas
Semnoz bus
A seasonal bus between Annecy and Le Semnoz operates from mid-December to the end of March..
With the CARTE COOL card, no more waiting in line at the lift pass office and pay only for the actual time you spend skiing. Every time you come to the Le Semnoz ski area, the Carte Cool card automatically calculates the corresponding lift pass. The amount is automatically charged to your credit/debit card.
Another story
Copyright:
- © Gilles Piel / Nordic skiing
Journalist: Aude Pollet-Thiollier
Translation: Darin Reisman