The Flaine snow report for Dec 08 is a 31cm base depth with 9 of 23 lifts open. Please note ski conditions and snowfall at Flaine are sourced directly from the ski resort and are only recorded during the official ski season's opening to closing dates.
What's the skiing like? Flaine belongs to the Grand Massif ski area (265km) which is shared with Les Carroz, Samoens and Morillon. There's plenty of varied skiing for all levels in both Flaine's local slopes and the massive linked ski area beyond. Flaine has an excellent snow record and its northfacing slopes hold it well.
The majority of Flaine's ski area is located above the treeline (with skiing up to 2480m) but there's also some pretty runs through the trees to the linked resorts below. Ski lifts are modern and fast with two gondolas and a fast chair serving Flaine Forum.
Advanced skiers will find a wide bowl with some seriously steep black runs and excellent off-piste skiing. Intermediates have a huge variety of slopes, from easy blues to steep reds (the majority of slopes here are blue and red). Beginners will find two nursery areas with four free lifts as well as two very doable greens and some gentle blues above it. Families have various fun areas for the kids with bumps, banks and trees.
Best suited to . . . all levels of skier!
What's the resort like? The resort is divided into two parts: Flaine Forum with its traffic-free centre and above is Flaine Foret. Both have their own lower slope and lift and are dotted with a few bars and restaurants. The majority of accommodation is apartments with ski-in/ski-out facilities. There's further accommodation a little further out in the Montsoleil apartments and Hameau de Flaine (2km away) connected to the slopes by a free ski bus.
Downside? Flaine is quiet in the evening and there are limited activities off the slopes.
Getting there? Geneva (80km/90mins)
