Skiing in Le Grand-Bornand means a human-scale area at the foot of the Aravis, renowned for its family atmosphere and its face-off with the range. Around 90 km of pistes spread from the village up to the high hamlet of Le Chinaillon, with one of the finest cross-country skiing areas in the massif thrown in, in the Bouchet valley.
The area
- Le Chinaillon: the heart of the alpine area, at 1,300 m, with the highest pistes and quick access to altitude. Fine reds and sunny sectors facing the Aravis.
- The village: gentler, wooded pistes, linked to Le Chinaillon, ideal for beginners and families.
- The Bouchet valley: a great, quiet Nordic area, perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and walks.
Who it suits
Le Grand-Bornand is an ideal resort for families and beginner to intermediate skiers: varied slopes, a relaxed atmosphere, and an area you won’t get lost in. Cross-country fans find one of the finest grounds in the Aravis. For more committing alpine skiing, neighbouring La Clusaz rounds out the offer.
Booking
Passes are bought from the resort, online or at the lift ticket offices. For lessons, head to the ESF or a local ski school, and book early during school holidays. Combined passes with La Clusaz and the Aravis exist for wider skiing.
Good to know
Altitude. The village sits at 1,000 m, Le Chinaillon at 1,300 m; low-altitude snow can be patchy, but the high sectors and snowmaking secure the season.
Best timing. January and February for snow, December for the atmosphere. Avoid the peak of school holidays if you can.
Cross-country skiing. The Bouchet valley is worth the trip, even for non-skiers, for the beauty of the setting.
Getting around. Shuttles link the village to Le Chinaillon; no need to take the car every morning.
See also in Le Grand-Bornand
Off the pistes, head out on snowshoes or by dog-sled, and take time for the terroir and reblochon. Back to the destination: Le Grand-Bornand.