Le Grand Bornand

Le Grand-Bornand, in the heart of the Aravis Massif in Haute-Savoie, ideally located between Mont-Blanc, Lake Annecy and Switzerland, is a wonderful combination of the charm of an authentic village and the energy of a ski resort in the Northern Alps. Summer and winter alike, this destination offers a preserved natural environment and a multitude of activities, while maintaining a lively local life throughout the year.

Le Grand-Bornand: a natural setting between tradition and modernity

It all begins with the majestic Aravis mountain range, a splendid backdrop that culminates at 2750 metres with the Pointe Percée, the emblematic peak of the Massif that takes its name from a hole in its northern ridge. From this summit, harmonious, green and wooded curves descend to the village. The commune extends over two altitudes: Le Grand Bornand village at 1000 metres and Chinaillon at 1300 metres. These two sites, a few kilometres apart, each offer a unique face of the resort.

Le Grand-Bornand Village

Le Grand-Bornand village is a typically Savoyard market town with its own corn exchange, square, church and shops. This charming village is overlooked by the Bouchet valley at the foot of the Aravis mountain range, a true paradise for Nordic skiing enthusiasts. It is also the venue for numerous cultural and artistic events. The village is decorated with frescoes and sculptures, a nod to the artistic richness of the region. It is here that the soul of Le Grand-Bornand is revealed, between tradition and modernity, with more than 400 century-old chalets, which reflect a unique know-how and a practical sense that has become a modern aesthetic reference. The Bornandins, young and old, live a beautiful love story with their village throughout the year, rooted in life, respect and looking to the future.

Le Chinaillon

Located between Le Grand-Bornand village and the Col de la Colombière, 12 km further up at an altitude of 1300 metres, Le Chinaillon is an authentic hamlet, with its old village dating from the 17th century. This site, which is a few kilometres from Grand-Bornand Village, is the main starting point for the downhill ski slopes. Le Chinaillon is also a place where you can admire traditional chalets, picturesque alleys and breathtaking scenery. What’s more, the village is the centre of many outdoor activities, such as skiing, hiking and mountain biking. In summer and winter alike, Le Chinaillon offers the perfect setting for nature lovers.

The Grand-Bornand ski area

With its 90 kilometres of slopes and 24 ski lifts, Le Grand-Bornand is a real playground for skiers of all levels. Its varied domain has 47 slopes, from green to black, and includes a Freeride area for powder snow enthusiasts. Snow cover is guaranteed by almost 300 snow cannons, and an optimised grooming system ensures ideal conditions throughout the season. The resort also stands out for its renowned snow park, offering modules for all levels, as well as a timed run to challenge the performance of champions. For families and beginners, several fun areas and magic carpets make learning easier. Ski touring is also in the spotlight with marked routes, including a night-time one. Finally, by integrating the Magic Pass, the resort offers its visitors exclusive access to a large network of partner Alpine resorts.

Le Grand-Bornand: undeniable charm

The resort of Le Grand-Bornand seduces with its unspoilt setting and authentic heritage. In both summer and winter, the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. The Bouchet valley, which stretches for 7 km between Le Grand-Bornand Village and the hamlet of Les Troncs, is a natural paradise for mountain lovers, whether on foot, on snowshoes or on cross-country skis on a Nordic ski area of almost 82 km.

Exceptional peaks and panoramas

Le Grand-Bornand is surrounded by iconic peaks such as Lachat (the highest point in the ski area), Maroly, Jalouvre and Roc des Tours, which shape its unique landscape. The Col des Annes, located at the foot of the Pointe Percée, is a true haven of tranquillity with its alpine farms and iconic chapel. Accessible in summer via a winding road and in winter on skis, snowshoes or cross-country skis, it is an unmissable crossing point for lovers of the great outdoors.

A living agricultural tradition

Le Grand-Bornand proudly claims ‘2000 cows for 2000 inhabitants’, testimony to its agricultural identity, which is still very dynamic with many farms. Reblochon fermier, the region’s emblematic product, is made every day on these farms. Pastoral activity punctuates village life and contributes to its timeless charm. Every summer, the festival of Lormay, held on the third Sunday in July, celebrates these traditions by offering visitors the chance to discover the trades of yesteryear and share a convivial moment with local farmers.

The Grand Bornand ski resort is committed to sustainable development

The Grand-Bornand ski resort is actively committed to sustainable development. For transportation, the resort has provided bus routes from Annecy to the resort, including the price for the day and the journey. In addition, for people working on the ski lifts, working hours are adapted to carpooling possibilities, all with the aim of limiting the number of cars in the resort as much as possible. In addition, a network of free shuttles provides an efficient link between the different parts of the village, the accommodation and the cable cars throughout the day. Charging stations for electric vehicles are also available at the bus station, thus encouraging more environmentally friendly modes of transport.

Everything is designed to respect and preserve the environment of the resort

The Grand Bornand ski resort has also put up information panels in the resort and on the slopes to raise skiers’ awareness of the issue of sustainable development. Children in schools are strongly educated on this subject, as are tourists and skiers who constantly see signs promoting the protection of the ski area.

Unforgettable experiences in Grand Bornand

Discover a new way of sliding that is accessible to everyone, even non-skiers! Bike skiing is a very easy activity for young and old, all you need is to have already been on a conventional bike. It allows you to go down green and blue slopes, from the first try, without getting scared and for most beginners, without falling. Bike skis are equipped with a unique braking system that is very safe and offers easy speed control. So, are you game?

Le Grand-Bornand offers you another way to glide. This time you need skis, and you’ll have a sail above your head! Speed riding is a 90-minute session, and you will of course be accompanied. The price is €230. The activity is only available for children aged 16 and over.

Thrill-seekers can also take off in a paraglider from the summit of Mont Lachat, an unforgettable experience that is available in summer and winter, on skis or on foot. For nature lovers, numerous trails are accessible for hiking or mountain biking, electric or not, allowing you to discover breathtaking landscapes.

Glisse en Cœur: 24 hours of skiing for a good cause

Glisse en Cœur is the flagship charity event in Le Grand-Bornand that combines skiing and solidarity. Every year, this unique challenge brings together hundreds of participants for a 24-hour ski relay in aid of a charitable cause. Concerts, entertainment and a festive atmosphere are on the programme, attracting both winter sports enthusiasts and spectators who have come to support this wonderful initiative. With several million euros raised since its creation, Glisse en Cœur has become an unmissable event combining sport, sharing and generosity.

Le Grand-Bornand, a family resort par excellence

Le Grand-Bornand is a resort where families will find a warm and friendly atmosphere, whatever the season. In summer and winter alike, everything is designed with the youngest visitors in mind: shows, events and play areas are part and parcel of daily life for young holidaymakers. In Place de la Grenette, the true heart of the village, activities for children are regularly organised, such as the famous Boom des Enfants during the ski holidays, where music and dance are the order of the day.

Au Bonheur des Mômes, the place for families

The Au Bonheur des Mômes Festival is much more than just an event: it is a real institution for families. For more than 30 years, it has transformed Le Grand-Bornand into an open-air theatre, where children are the centre of attention. Every year, in the last week of August, the village welcomes almost 90,000 festival-goers, young and old, who come for a unique cultural and fun experience.

The festival offers a rich and varied programme, with street performances, theatre, dance, circus and music, suitable for all ages. Street artists take over the village squares, streets and parks, creating a magical and immersive atmosphere where interaction with the public is at the heart of the festival. Creative and participatory workshops allow children to get involved and give free rein to their imagination, while discovering new artistic worlds.

With installations specially designed for the occasion and colourful parades, the festival transforms the whole village into a huge playground and exploration area for children. And to top it all off, a friendly, family atmosphere reigns over the event, offering parents a moment of relaxation while allowing children to enjoy unforgettable experiences in an exceptional setting.

This festival, a true symbol of the resort, is the perfect opportunity for families to experience magical moments together, while discovering the mountain’s rich cultural heritage.

Le Grand-Bornand, a summer destination for the whole family

Summer in Le Grand-Bornand is the perfect opportunity to discover the mountains from a different angle. On foot, by bike or even on a scooter, there is something for all tastes and levels. Whether you are looking for thrills or relaxation with the family, the resort offers a wide range of activities to keep you entertained throughout your stay.

Sports and leisure activities

Le Grand-Bornand stands out for its variety of sports activities for young and old. For example, the electric all-terrain scooter is an unmissable experience. Accessible from 1.50 m, this activity allows you to discover the magnificent mountain trails in a fun and entertaining way. You can choose a 1.5-hour discovery outing for an easy experience, or a 2.5-hour more strenuous version for the more adventurous.

Mountain bikers will be delighted by the many electric and non-electric mountain bike rides, which offer an original way to explore the mountains. The resort also offers a Pumtrack, ideal for mountain bike enthusiasts, as well as sports trails through the village and the surrounding area.

Test your skills with a axe throwing session, supervised to guarantee safety and thrills. For a more traditional activity, try your hand at archery and perfect your accuracy in an exceptional mountain setting.

Fans of outdoor sports will not be disappointed. The site of La Culaz in Le Chinaillon is a renowned climbing spot with routes suitable for all levels. For those looking for more adventure, the region offers via ferrata and canyoning trips in the surrounding area, with routes for beginners and experienced climbers alike.

Relaxation and water sports

After a day of adventure, there’s nothing like a break at the Grand-Bornand outdoor swimming pool. It has a range of facilities for relaxing and cooling off, such as a slide, a small pool for younger children, a paddling pool, a diving board and a large pool for swimming. Grassy beaches have also been laid out so you can enjoy the sun while admiring the breathtaking view of the Tête du Danay and the Aravis mountain range.

Activities for children

Families will also appreciate the activities specially designed for younger children. In addition to electric karts or the adventure trail in the forest, children can have fun in the play areas, take part in activities such as creative workshops or discover outdoor games.

Webcams of the Grand Bornand ski resort

If you would like to see the current conditions at the ski resort and its surroundings, you will find the webcams of the Grand Bornand ski resort below.

Terres Rouges webcam

Hotels at the Grand Bornand resort

Le Roc des Tours ****

Located at the foot of the slopes of the Grand-Bornand Chinaillon ski area, the MGM residence ‘Le Roc des Tours’ offers an ideal location. It offers modern and spacious apartments for 2 to 8 people.

Comprising 39 apartments, it combines comfort, charm and top-of-the-range facilities: fully-equipped kitchen, TV, Wi-Fi, Nespresso machine, etc. You can take advantage of the many services included, such as the indoor swimming pool, the wellness area with sauna, jacuzzi, hammam, spa, fitness, and much more.

Hôtel les Cimes ****

Nestled in the heart of the resort, 100 metres from the slopes, the Hôtel Les Cimes invites you to reconnect with the authentic tradition of the chalets of yesteryear, where well-being regains its full meaning. This is a peaceful place.

A small, charming hotel renovated in autumn 2013 with a view to upgrading to a 4-star category. It offers 5 rooms and 3 suites. Bed & breakfast packages available!

Hôtel les Ecureuils ***

A peaceful family hotel with a pleasant view of the Aravis mountain range. Located at the foot of the slopes, 400m from the centre, 50m from the leisure area. Refined dining: Savoyard specialities, French cuisine, run by the owner. Sauna, spa, swimming pool and garden (summer).

The 13 rooms are equipped with bath or shower, WC, satellite TV, telephone and balcony. The 4 family suites have shower, WC, satellite TV and telephone. The entire hotel is non-smoking. You will also find a table tennis room, garages, ski and bicycle storage, a billiard table and a car park nearby.

Le Village de Lessy ****

Located in the heart of Le Chinaillon, right next to the ski slopes, the Village de Lessy offers an authentic alpine atmosphere. This 4-star residence comprises 128 apartments spread over 9 chalets, combining traditional Savoyard architecture with modern facilities. The spacious apartments have a balcony with a view of the valley. Guests can enjoy the Ô des Cimes spa, a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, hammam and fitness room. The residence also has an underground car park and ski storage.

Skiing in Le Grand Bornand: the resort’s strong points

Located in the heart of the Aravis Massif, between Annecy, Chamonix, and Geneva, Le Grand-Bornand is a resort that perfectly embodies the spirit of the Savoyard mountains: authentic, welcoming, and deeply rooted in its territory. Its domain extends between 1,000 and 2,100 meters above sea level, offering a wide variety of landscapes and experiences, from snow-covered forests to wide panoramic slopes with views of Mont Blanc.

A balanced and varied ski area

The Le Grand-Bornand ski area has 84 km of alpine slopes and 24 ski lifts, integrated into the Les Aravis ski area, which it shares with La Clusaz, Saint-Jean-de-Sixt, and Manigod. This interconnected ski area offers more than 200 km of slopes, guaranteeing a complete experience for all levels. Beginners enjoy large learning areas in Le Chinaillon, while experienced skiers find a technical and stimulating playground on the red and black slopes of Maroly or Lachat de Châtillon.

The cradle of champions

Le Grand-Bornand is also a land of athletes and legends. It has seen the birth of great figures in French skiing such as Tessa Worley, two-time world champion in giant slalom, and each year hosts the Biathlon World Cup, an international event that attracts thousands of spectators. This link with high-level sport reinforces the destination’s identity and its reputation for technical and organizational excellence.

A village with soul and authenticity

Beyond the slopes, Le Grand-Bornand retains the living soul of an authentic mountain village. Its traditional wood and stone architecture, century-old farms, and Baroque church are part of a carefully preserved heritage. Local producers continue to make the famous Reblochon fermier cheese, a gastronomic symbol of the region, which visitors can taste directly on the farms in the valley. This balance between tourism and real rural life is one of the destination’s great strengths.

A family-friendly and welcoming resort

Le Grand-Bornand is certified with the Famille Plus Montagne label, which guarantees a range of family-friendly facilities: recognized ski schools, nurseries, play areas, and après-ski activities designed for all ages. The village atmosphere is peaceful, safe, and pleasant, with a dynamic local life throughout the year.

Innovation and sustainability

The resort is part of a sustainable development strategy led by the community of the Thônes Valley and the Aravis Massif. Ski lifts have been modernized with energy efficiency criteria, snowmaking systems have been optimized, and water consumption has been reduced. Le Grand-Bornand also promotes soft mobility projects, encouraging access by public transport from Annecy and intermodality between resorts in the Les Aravis domain.

Activities beyond skiing

The destination is a true four-season mountain resort. In winter, in addition to downhill skiing, the domain offers more than 80 km of cross-country ski trails, snowshoe itineraries, and scenic trails. In summer, the valley’s meadows are transformed into a paradise for hiking, cycling, climbing, and paragliding. The Au Bonheur des Mômes Festival, one of Europe’s most important cultural events for children, reflects the social and creative vitality of the village.

Accessibility and comfort

Le Grand-Bornand is strategically located just 30 minutes from Annecy and one hour from Geneva, making it easily accessible to both French and international visitors. Its accommodation options are varied—chalets, tourist residences, hotels, and refuges—and its value for money makes it a very attractive alternative to the large Alpine resorts.

Limitations to consider

The moderate altitude can mean variable snow conditions at the end of the season, although the quality of its orientation and the efficiency of its snowmaking system guarantee skiing throughout the winter. The diversity of the domain, its authenticity, and its warmth more than compensate for this factor.

A resort with soul, history, and a future

Le Grand-Bornand represents the best of the French mountains: a balance between tradition, sport, family, and sustainability. Its blend of local identity, technical excellence, and human authenticity makes it one of the most inspiring and complete destinations in the Alps. Here, skiing is experienced with soul, with roots, and with the pride of a mountain that remains authentic and alive.