Semnoz

The Le Semnoz ski resort, situated in Haute-Savoie, is much more than just a ski area: it is an iconic natural site in the Annecy region and the gateway to the Bauges Massif.

Situated just 15 kilometres from Annecy, this resort is set within a setting of great heritage value, as the Bauges Massif has been classified as a Regional Nature Park and a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2011. This recognition reinforces Le Semnoz’s position as a destination where tourism development is centred on respect for the environment and the promotion of the local area.

Nicknamed “the Balcony of the Alps”, the resort offers exceptional panoramic views from its summit over Lake Annecy, the Bauges massif and, on clear days, the Mont Blanc range. This panoramic setting, combined with its proximity to the city, makes it a true green lung for the inhabitants of the Annecy area.

Le Semnoz: An accessible and comprehensive ski area

The Le Semnoz alpine ski area is specially designed for a wide range of visitors, from beginners to intermediate skiers. With approximately 15 km of slopes ranging from green to black, it offers ideal terrain for learning and improving skills in a mid-mountain setting.

The resort also boasts a unique layout, with access from two sides: the Annecy side and the Bauges side (from Chambéry, Aix-les-Bains or Albertville). This dual accessibility enhances its regional appeal and makes it easier for a diverse range of visitors to reach the resort.

But Semnoz stands out particularly for its Nordic offering: it is a regional benchmark for cross-country skiing, with 35 km of trails spread across three sectors, making it one of the most comprehensive areas in Haute-Savoie for Nordic skiing.

Activities and experiences in the heart of nature

Beyond alpine and Nordic skiing, the resort offers a wide range of activities that allow visitors to discover the mountains in a different way. In winter, visitors can enjoy marked snowshoe trails, family-friendly tobogganing areas and safe, accessible spaces for beginners

In summer, Le Semnoz transforms into a true outdoor leisure destination, offering sporting, cultural and discovery activities in the heart of nature, in harmony with its protected environment.

A model of public and collaborative management

Unlike many Alpine resorts, Le Semnoz has a unique governance model. The resort operates as a financially autonomous public authority within the Communauté d’Agglomération du Grand Annecy, which means the area is managed directly by the public sector.

Strategic decisions (pricing, activities, development) are approved by the community council, in collaboration with a wide range of local stakeholders. This approach is supported by a strong network of partners, including:

• the Bauges Regional Nature Park
• local pastoralists
• environmental associations
• the ESF
• activity operators and restaurateurs
• This collaborative ecosystem enables the resort to develop in line with principles of cooperation, sustainability and local roots.

The Annecy – Semnoz ski resort is committed to sustainable development

At Semnoz, the environment is a key concern, particularly through the practice of pastoralism. This ancestral activity promotes the open spaces at high altitude by grazing herds during the summer months, usually from mid-June onwards. Thanks to transhumance, cattle (Abondance, Tarine and Montbéliarde breeds), Alpine goats and sometimes horses naturally maintain the landscape and promote biodiversity. Supervised by shepherds and protected by guard dogs such as Patous, these herds play an essential role in preserving the mountain environment.

The Semnoz mountain pastures are managed collectively by the Association Foncière Pastorale du Semnoz, in collaboration with the Société d’Économie Alpestre (SEA74), ensuring a sustainable balance between agriculture, tourism and forestry activities. A walk through these mountain pastures is also an opportunity to discover local products made using traditional methods, reflecting the strong link between nature, tradition and the local area.

The 2018 edition of the ‘Report on the State of Sustainable Development in Annecy’ offers, for the first time, a summary of the actions carried out by the new municipality. It analyses the results at the level of the new municipality according to three themes:

“ENERGY EFFICIENCY, MOBILITY AND URBAN ECOLOGY (NATURE IN THE CITY, PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION).”

The energy efficiency objective is to construct and renovate buildings while limiting their environmental and energy impact, reducing energy consumption and promoting renewable energies. In terms of mobility, it is necessary to develop and promote public transport alternatives to cars in order to reduce CO2 emissions and improve air quality. In line with the theme of urban ecology, the development of green spaces in the city and the circular economy is encouraged. In short, the aim is to raise awareness and mobilise the local population in favour of sustainable development.

Unforgettable experiences in Annecy – Semnoz

Don’t miss the resort’s flagship outing. For an unforgettable evening, join the traditional night-time outing followed by a descent on a paret (sled) and enjoy a Savoyard aperitif dinner with local products at the restaurant in Châtillon. To avoid the Sunday evening blues, you can also enjoy the sunset outing. Snowshoe walk at sunset, followed by mulled wine, charcuterie, local cheeses and bread.

The Annecy – Semnoz mountain resort in summer

The “Le Belvédère” télémix is open to pedestrians only. A cable car takes you to the top of the resort, at an altitude of 1,704 metres, where a magnificent 360-degree panorama awaits you. Parmelan, Tournette, the Aravis mountain range, Mont Blanc, Lake Annecy and Lake Bourget… The region will hold no more secrets for you!

Another activity offered by the Annecy-Semnoz ski resort during the warmer months of the year is summer tobogganing. An 850-metre circuit with its own lift. The thrill of a descent with banked turns amid the pine trees will give you an adrenaline rush.

From Annecy, you can take a mountain bike to the top of Semnoz, at an altitude of 1,704 metres. You can also visit the mountain pastures, admire the view and enjoy all the activities on offer. Mountain bike enthusiasts will discover a fully signposted route for a 20-kilometre descent to Annecy.

Think that’s all? Introducing Runix, a motorless all-terrain kart equipped with high-performance suspension. What’s more, it’s pulled up the hill by a chairlift, so the climb isn’t difficult. Finally, you’ll glide down a specially designed track for a thrilling descent. Dare to try it!

Where to stay in Annecy – Semnoz?

Les Catalons ****

Les Catalons is a detached villa located in Sévrier. It has all the facilities you need to make your stay unforgettable. It is 200 metres from Lake Annecy. The accommodation includes a TV, a terrace and a seating area. In addition, all rooms offer views of the magnificent Lake Annecy. The villa also has indoor and outdoor dining areas. In the surrounding area, you can enjoy cycling, hiking and even skiing. The Annecy-Semnoz ski resort is only 20 minutes from the villa.

Hôtel Black Bass *****

The Hôtel Black Bass is located in Sévrier, 7 kilometres from the Annecy-Semnoz ski resort. It features an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, a garden, a sauna, a restaurant and a shared lounge. The rooms are fully equipped and have a terrace. The restaurant serves French bistro-style cuisine. A variety of activities can be enjoyed on site and in the surrounding area, including snorkelling, cycling and hiking. The hotel is ideal for a stress-free holiday.

Hôtel Côte Ouest ****

The Hôtel Côte Ouest is located opposite Lake Annecy, a 25-minute drive from the Annecy-Semnoz ski resort. It offers fully equipped self-catering accommodation. The apartments have a TV and a terrace with views of the mountains and the lake. Bakeries, shops and restaurants are within walking distance. Ironing and laundry services, a concierge, bike hire and breakfast in your room are available. Outdoor activities include water sports, hiking and paragliding. Next to the hotel, there is a private beach offering special deals and activities for guests.

Skiing in Annecy – Semnoz: the resort’s advantages

• Ski area suitable for all: 18 slopes (green, blue, red) for beginners to advanced skiers
• Exceptional views: views of Lake Annecy, Mont Blanc and the Aravis mountains
• Nordic activities: cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledging
• Snowpark for all levels: accessible and varied freestyle modules
• Close to Annecy: resort located just 20 minutes from the city
• Commitment to the environment: preserved environment and responsible tourism