Samoens and its history
Situated in the gentle upper Giffre valley, Samoens has….for many years……enjoyed a reputation as one of the prettiest Alpine villages. Winner of the Coq d’Or award and listed as a ‘Monument Historique’ Samoens easily combines its heritage as a longstanding farming village with its recent reputation as an increasingly popular ski resort.
Visitors are immediately aware of the true French flavour which is jealously guarded ; whilst visitors are always made most welcome there is a commitment to retaining the rustic feeling that the narrow streets and charming central square convey.
Apart from farming Samoens has a long tradition of stone masonry and you will see frequent references to this when you roam round the streets. In times past the men of Samoens would leave their families for months -and sometimes years- to work far away on construction projects; many worked on famous buildings in America.
A further reason for the fame of Samoens is the Jaysinia Botanical Garden which has just celebrated its centenary. With over 8,000 plants from around the world the garden attracts thousands of summer visitors who face an energetic climb on the hillside overlooking the village.
Although Samoens prides itself on its past, the commune has many modern facilities - pride of which is the new Grand Massif Express skilift. With 700 car parking spaces at its base the eight person gondolas whisk visitors up to the slopes in under eight minutes and from there skiers can enjoy the prettiest of ski regions with pistes to satisfy every ability.
Restaurants in Samoens are numerous and varied in styles of cuisine. Most offer traditional Savoyard menus…which ensure that the diner never leaves the table hungry! The village comprises shops of all trades, banks, medical centre and bars….even the inevitable Irish bar.
Whatever one's taste Samoens has the atmosphere that compels the visitor to return year after year. For lovers of La Belle France there is one appropriate word…..formidable.