Le Grand Bornand skiing: an overview
Le Grand Bornand offers 90 km of diverse skiing terrain across 47 runs: 5 black, 12 red, 15 blue, and 15 green. The resort caters to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. A network of 24 lifts, including gondolas and chairlifts, efficiently serves the slopes.
The ski area spans from Le Grand Bornand Village (1,000 m) to Chinaillon (1,300 m), reaching a peak at Mont Lachat (2,100 m). Mont Lachat features a dedicated freeride area for adventurous skiers. Beginners can enjoy gentle slopes above Chinaillon and easy runs near the La Joyère gondola. For freestyle enthusiasts, the resort boasts one of France’s top 5 snowparks. The area benefits from a favourable microclimate, ensuring good snow conditions throughout the season. Le Grand Bornand is part of the larger Les Aravis ski area, connecting to nearby resorts and offering access to a total of 230 km of slopes for those seeking more variety.
Non-skiing activities in Le Grand Bornand
Le Grand Bornand offers plenty of snowy activities beyond skiing. If you’re looking to explore at a slower pace, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing with the local Cross-Country Ski and Snowshoeing School. They offer guided tours and lessons to help you get started. For some downhill fun without skis, head to the sledding and tubing runs at the top of the Rosay gondola. The village also has an outdoor ice rink if you fancy a spin on the ice.
Thrill-seekers can book snowmobiling tours for an exciting ride through the winter landscape. For something truly unique, give ski joëring a go – it’s skiing while being pulled by a horse. And if you want a bird’s eye view of the mountains, tandem paragliding flights are available too. These activities add variety to your winter holiday and give you different ways to enjoy the mountain scenery.
Things to do in Le Grand Bornand village
Relax at Les Granges du Lac Spa or Spa des Cimes, both offering massages and wellness treatments. Immerse yourself in local culture at the Maison de Patrimoine museum or browse the vibrant Wednesday morning market for regional specialties. For entertainment, catch a film at the local cinema or try your hand at bowling. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy winter hiking, snowshoeing on marked trails, or ice skating at the village rink. The village also serves as a great base for day trips. Visit nearby Annecy, known as the “Venice of the Alps,” or venture to Geneva for a taste of city life.
Family-friendly and kids’ fun in Le Grand Bornand
Le Grand Bornand village offers plenty of winter activities for families. Children will enjoy skating at the outdoor rink in the village centre, perfect for family fun. The Maison de Patrimoine museum provides an interesting look at local history, with displays that children can interact with and learn from.
On Wednesday mornings, the village hosts a lively market where families can sample local specialities and browse handmade crafts. For a cosy evening, the village cinema shows films suitable for all ages. When the weather is fine, there are easy walking trails starting from the village, allowing families to explore the snowy landscape together.