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Travel guide – flaine

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Overview

Probably because it was purpose-built, Flaine is one of the most user-friendly ski resorts it is possible to find: compact, with easy access to the pistes, and a location that ensures exceptional snow conditions. Consisting of concrete apartment blocks built on three levels along the slopes, at an altitude of 5,250ft (1,600m), in the centre of a natural bowl, this, the youngest resort in the French Alps, may not sound particularly appealing. Flaine may not present the archetypical image of the Alpine village, but it has been architecturally designed for comfort and convenience, and visitors are amazed at how the buildings blend in with the limestone of their surroundings. The three levels, Flaine-Foret, Flaine-Forum and Flaine-Front de Neige, are connected by elevators and pedestrian trails. The centre is car-free, with restaurants, bars and services grouped around two central shopping plazas. All activities are either close and easily accessible, or in the resort centre. There is also a cultural centre where classical and jazz music events are scheduled, a library and art gallery. Children are particularly well catered for. Flaine is situated beneath Mont Blanc, near Geneva, at the gateway to 'Le Grand Massif', one of the best ski and snowboard areas of France. From the nursery slopes, to an easy glide on the 8.5-mile (14km) blue Cascade run or the off-piste challenge of the Combe de Gers, Flaine is a trend-setting family-orientated resort that caters for all levels of skiers and boarders.

Shopping

Holidaymakers do not come to Flaine to shop, but to ski, as is evidenced by the fact that this is not a resort sporting designer boutiques or glitzy malls. Shopping arcades contain the necessities for visitors…if you forgot your sunglasses or gloves, you can buy some. There is a supermarket and bakery for self-caterers, and services like a post office and hair-stylist. Serious shoppers will have to save their credit cards for a spree in Geneva on the way home.

Restaurants

Most visitors to Flaine come on package deals, which include dining in the hotel, but for those who want a change of scene, Flaine has about two dozen establishments offering a variety from typical French cuisine, traditional fondues or pizza and snacks. Good choices for basic French fare are Les Chalets du Michet, which operates from a converted cowshed, or La Perdrix Noire. Limes Rock Café has good value meals, and Chez Daniel, where you can sizzle steaks on hot rocks, is famous for its crêpes.

Nightlife

Being primarily a family resort, Flaine is not a hectic party spot. Après ski is enjoyed mainly at the two most popular pubs, The White Grouse and The Flying Dutchman, both with a good atmosphere. Le Skifun offers some low-key disco action. Les Cimes has karaoke twice a week.

Activities

Off the slopes Flaine offers many diversions. There is a cinema, ice-rink, swimming pool, fitness centre, bowling alley and indoor climbing wall. Snowshoeing and ice driving are popular.

Climate

The French Alps offer lots of sunshine, but cold weather from November to April when the ski season is in full swing. The resorts are generally high and the snow is excellent, although the weather is relatively mild in comparison to the North American resorts. During the summer months the cool, sunny weather attracts hikers and climbers, particularly from July to September when the weather has settled and the high snows have melted.

Health

French hospitals and health facilities are first class. British, and visitors from other EU countries, are entitled to heavily discounted medical treatment and medicines on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Otherwise doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Medical insurance is advised. Pharmacies will provide some first aid, but charge for it. There have been increased reports of hantavirus (caused by rodents) in the Ardennes, Aisne and Jura regions. Rabies also occurs occasionally. In February 2006, France confirmed its first cases of bird flu; all affected birds have been culled and precautionary measures taken. The risk is low for travellers, but close contact with domestic, wild and caged birds should be avoided, and all poultry and egg dishes well cooked.

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Travel Guide by www.wordtravels.com
Disclaimer: By its very nature much of the information in our travel guides is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Winter Sunshine Holidays & Globe Media cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.