Right in the middle of the Haute-Savoie department of France lies the Massif des Aravis. Situated between Annecy, Chamonix and Geneva, The Grand-Bornand has all the charm of a traditional mountain village and equally all the modern amenities of a world class ski resort. The Grand-Bornand has preserved its mountain soul while developing a quality reception that makes people come back year after year.
The resort of the Grand Bornand is separated in to two villages, each at different altitudes:
- At 1000 metres, the Grand-Bornand village, a typical Savoyard village with its central village square, its' church and range of shops.
- Six kilometres higher up, on the road to the Col de la Colombiere you'll come across The Grand-Bornand Chinaillon situated at 1300 metres above sea level; it is the main departure for the ski slopes.
The easy, welcoming snow covered pastures like those found at the top of the ‘col des Annes' make up a large percentage of the ski area in the Grand Bornard, however the slopes of the Aravis Mountains or the Mont Lachat offer harder skiing for those more experienced. Beginner or pro, newbies to winter sports or old timers, the 90 km of ski runs that cover the area will meet the requirements of everyone. There is even an array of walking paths for those who choose not to ski.
The 90 kilometres of connected skiing accessible from the Grand-Bornand Village (1000 m) or Grand-Bornand Chinaillon (1300 m), extend in a North / South format guaranteeing lots of sunshine and abundant snowfall, with the weather systems are often caught by the Aravis mountain chain.
At the top of the Maroly area of the resort, the Grand-Bo snow park (ranked among the best in France) has something for everyone: small and big, young and old, beginner to experienced professional.
In the Bouchet valley and up at the top of Chinaillon near the old village, cross country skiing has a stronghold. The huge snow covered spruce trees cover the snug little chalets nestled in the middle of this winter wilderness. 60km of perfectly groomed tracks lead all the way to La Clusaz, which is home to the tough, black rated Frasses track.
For non-skiers, the Grand Bornand offers a range of sporting, leisure and cultural activities:
-Hiking or snowshoeing, paragliding, hot air ballooning. Ice climbing, horse riding (skijoring), snowmobiling and ice skating are all available throughout the season.
- For those in need of time to relax, there is a Library and a cinema.
- For those culture vultures, discover how the locals make their famous Reblochon cheese, enjoy a guided tour of the local area and explore the local heritage centre.
After a good day of skiing or walking, take the time to share a bit of time with the kids in the “Espace P'tits Montagnards” (Little Mountaineers) area, which is specially adapted for families and situated in the centre of town.
