Flaine |
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The Bauhaus architecture of Flaine is set off perfectly by its mountain setting. It is located in a natural bowl sheltered from the Alpine winds and has its own aesthetic beauty in an avant-garde style. It is the epitomy of a ski in/ski-out resort being a paradise for beginners, intermediates and families. A good snow and powder record. A huge ski area where ski evolutif ensures quick learning for adults and children. An excellent family resort being totally car-free.
In favour of Flaine:There has been a huge investment programme during the summer of 2000 to upgrade the facilities in Flaine. A number of lifts have been upgraded - the Grands Vans chair lift is now an 8-seater and the Morillon chair lift is now a 4-seater. There is now a link between the Sixt area and the Cascade lift, increasing the ski area considerably. New snowmaking equipment has given improved snow cover on the lower slopes of Flaine, Morillon and Sixt. Flaine's great success must be due to the quality of the ski instruction given by 2 rival ski schools, both with small classes and a good number of English-speaking instructors. Beginners learn on good snow. Intermediates can enjoy the wide-open slopes, while Flaine is a powder skier's delight with gentle powder fields easily accessible from the lifts. Compact, car-free village centres around the friendly and sociable Flaine Forum. Flaine Foret is a development above the Forum connected by a shuttle lift. It consists of a few apartment buildings, a residence with many of the advantages of a hotel such as a bar, restaurant, supermarket and launderette. The newest development of Hameau de Flaine has fortunately been designed by a team of Norwegian architects and is a refreshing change from the high-rise blocks to be found in the rest of the resort. You can ski down to Flaine Foret, but the only transport back is by free shuttle bus until 11.30 pm. Cars are excluded from the village. Flaine has a concept that people come to ski, not stand in line. There is very little queuing except occasionally for the cable car. There are 5 free beginner's lifts. Good nursery slopes and lots of easy runs for beginners and intermediates. Short airport transfers. The 'Learn to Ski' package of skis, boots and lessons is good value. Ski kindergarten for 3-12 year olds 9am-5pm can include lunch.
Disadvantages: The mountain scenery can be rather desolate. Nightlife is limited, apart from the British-owned White Grouse pub and the very Dutch "Flying Dutchman" bar, world famous in Flaine, as well as the Diamant Noir, with free concerts, pool, ... and "Gusbowl bowling" alley with 6 lanes. There is little for non-skiers to do apart from swim, sauna or skate. Although the ski link with Samoens, Morillon and Les Carroz adds character and punch to the skiing, the link lifts can close in bad weather. The resort lacks mountain restaurants with real charm.
Non-Skiing Activities Cinemas with British films, library, art gallery, concert auditorium Indoor heated swimming pool, fitness centre, sauna, natural skating rink, sledging, hang-gliding, paragliding, new:quad driving on ice for adults and children from 7 yrs up and snow shoe walking, plus evening snow scooter excursions.
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