Top 10 things to do in Flaine

Top 10 things to do in Flaine

1 - A vast ski area

Whether you're a beginner, looking to improve, or want to perfect your skills, the Flaine ski area offers every kind of terrain imaginable. There are free slopes for beginners, the 14km Cascades run, and breathtaking views from the summit of Grandes Platières. Ranging from 1,600 to 2,500 meters in altitude, the area boasts 64 runs totaling 149km of slopes. It's linked to the Grand Massif ski area for even more fun and 139 runs. For those who want a different kind of skiing experience, freeriding reigns supreme with numerous spots and three dedicated zones.

2 - Dog sledding rides

To discover stunning locations and enjoy a unique excursion, hop into a sled and let yourself be pulled by a team of dogs . You'll have the opportunity to learn about dog sledding, visit the kennel to discover more about the pack's life… In summer, cani-hiking takes over, offering a different kind of walking experience while connected to a dog.

Prices:

• Introduction to carriage driving: one hour 70 euros;
• 50 euros for children under 12;
• Half-day: 130 euros; under 12 years: 180 euros;
• Day rate: 260 euros; under 12 years old: 180 euros;
• Cani-rando: 25 euros per person for one hour.

3 - Go hiking

At the gateway to the Six-Fer-à-Cheval and Passy nature reserves, Flaine offers a chance to marvel at the diversity of its flora and fauna. Numerous hikes of all levels are accessible from the resort, on foot or snowshoes . This is an opportunity to venture as far as the Désert de Platé, one of the largest limestone pavements in Europe, a plateau carved by glaciers and situated opposite Mont Blanc.

Whether you take a three-hour hike or a cable car ride, you'll be breathless at the 360° panorama from the summit of Grandes Platières. It's one of the most beautiful views of Mont Blanc!

4 - Driving on ice

Near the resort, you can watch and/or drive race cars and drift on the ice. It's the perfect opportunity to get an adrenaline rush and fulfill the dreams of even the most intrepid. Accompanied by instructors, you'll learn to master winter driving or become the driver of a Renault Sport or a 220 hp Subaru WRX. Ice driving courses are available to both amateurs and passionate drivers.

You can also choose Ice Quad Flaine with the rental of quads for children and adults, as well as buggies to drive on the snow and ice on a 700-meter track.

Prices:

• Starting from 190 euros.
• Adult: 30 minutes 50 euros;
• One hour: 90 euros;
• Child (7-14 years): 30 minutes: 40 euros;
• Two-seater buggy: 20 minutes: 70 euros, passenger 10 euros;
• Night package: one hour, quad bike and dinner: 120 euros.

5 - Sledding and ice skating

Just beneath the iconic Jean Dubuffet sculpture, enjoy a different kind of toboggan run, or head to the Col de Pierre Carrée with a zone for children aged 6 and up, and another for those aged 12 and up. With toboggan runs for all levels, there's plenty to keep everyone entertained. For a change of pace, head to the ice rink for some fun with the family.

6 - Mountain biking

Whether you're an experienced mountain biker or a beginner, Flaine has trails suited to your level. With 200 km of marked circuits around the Grand Massif, the descents offer unique thrills. Choose from guided tours , e -bikes , or ride solo. Thanks to its cirque, with exceptional panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif and the Dents Blanches, you can enjoy 13.5 km of downhill riding with a vertical drop of nearly 1,800 meters.

At the Carroz resort, try the frosty version of mountain biking: the e-Fatbike or snow mountain bike. You'll be supervised by an instructor and ride down the slopes before opening or at closing time.

Price:

• Starting from 35 euros.

7 - Ski at 100 km/h

If you're athletic, ski on red or black runs, and are looking for extraordinary thrills, try skiing at up to 100 km/h . For two hours, you'll learn to master an aerodynamic position, technique, and trajectory.

The following morning, before opening time, on a clear and smooth track, try to beat your record. A precise radar will measure your speed and you will receive a certificate of the speed achieved.

Price:

• Approximately 120 euros for 3 hours, a coffee and the video

8 - Swimming surrounded by snow

Near Flaine, in Les Carroz, take a dip in the outdoor pool , surrounded by mountains and snow. The steamy 33°C water, the snow-covered Alps, and the lifeguard in his down jacket and hat are well worth the trip. Enjoy the pool, but also the sauna, the hammam, the relaxation pool…

Price:

• 15 euros per person

9 - Jump into the Big Air Bag

The Big Air Bag is a particularly fun attraction. Whether on skis or an inflatable tube, launch yourself, pick up speed, take off from the ramp, and land on a giant inflatable cushion. Attempt the craziest tricks in complete safety. This activity is available in both summer and winter.

10 - An exceptional heritage

The resort was created in 1967 by a geophysicist and architects. The result: respect for the environment, a focus on urban planning and design. In Flaine, concrete blends seamlessly into the limestone. Visitors can explore the ecumenical chapel, a listed historical monument, and admire the Hôtel Le Flaine and the La Bételgeuse building, both listed on the supplementary inventory of historical monuments. Flaine boasts an "open-air museum" with a park of monumental sculptures, including "Head of a Woman" by Pablo Picasso, "The Grove of Seven Trees" by Jean Dubuffet, and a work by Victor Vasarely!

To get an idea of how the station was created, visit the Art Centre, a fun and accessible museum for everyone. For enthusiasts, a free guided tour of the most iconic locations is offered every Tuesday (registration required).