Praz de Lys Sommand

Nestled in the Northern Alps, less than an hour from Geneva, Annecy and Annemasse, the village resort of Praz de Lys – Sommand lies between 600 and 1,980 metres above sea level, high above the Giffre Valley in Haute-Savoie. Comprising two distinct villages, Praz de Lys, facing Mont Blanc, and the more secluded Sommand, it offers a dual atmosphere of open panoramic views and unspoilt nature.

Here, there are no large complexes or concrete buildings: the architecture remains respectful of the mountain heritage, with wooden chalets, traditional farms and unspoilt landscapes. The village retains a family-friendly, peaceful and authentic atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of larger resorts.

Praz de Lys – Sommand appeals to those looking for a real mountain experience, alive all year round. Hiking, local produce, farmers’ markets and Haute-Savoie traditions: everything invites you to explore and relax in an exceptional natural setting.

The Praz de Lys-Sommand ski area

At an altitude of 1,500 metres, the resort is divided between Praz de Lys, in the commune of Taninges, and Sommand, in the commune of Mieussy. The area offers a unique panorama of the Mont Blanc range, while retaining a warm, family atmosphere. In the heart of the resort, traditional chalets and wooden residences blend perfectly into this unspoilt setting.

The ski slopes of Praz de Lys-Sommand

With 72 kilometres of downhill ski slopes, Praz de Lys – Sommand offers a varied skiing area, between snow-covered forests and exceptional panoramic views. The resort has 55 marked slopes: 7 green, 29 blue, 11 red and 6 black, to suit all levels. The resort is equipped with 23 ski lifts and 120 snow cannons ensure snow throughout the season.

For freestyle enthusiasts, a snowpark and two boardercross courses are available. Beginners and families can enjoy dedicated areas with covered magic carpets and safe learning zones.

Praz de Lys-Sommand Nordic area

Renowned for its Nordic area, the resort offers 60 km of cross-country ski trails, certified Haute-Savoie Nordic. Beginners and experienced skiers alike will find something to suit them, with beginner’s areas and long circuits. In addition, 42 km of groomed footpaths are perfect for walks or snowshoeing. Two marked ski touring routes are also available for those who want to get away from it all in the heart of nature.

The Praz de Lys-Sommand ski resort is committed to sustainable development

Praz de Lys – Sommand has adopted an active approach to sustainable development, keen to preserve its natural environment while promoting its heritage. The resort manages its water and energy resources in a responsible manner, thanks in particular to 120 new-generation snow cannons, designed to consume less while remaining efficient. The modernised ski lifts also contribute to reducing energy consumption.

In terms of mobility, local shuttle buses allow visitors to reach the slopes without a car, limiting transport-related emissions. At the same time,

quiet zones have been created to protect wildlife,

particularly the habitat of the black grouse, an iconic species of the Alps.

The resort’s commitment also extends to welcoming visitors. The Beauregard refuge, for example, is energy self-sufficient: powered by a spring, it uses solar panels to generate its electricity. A great alternative for more responsible stays that are connected to nature.

Finally, events showcasing local products and short supply chains are offered throughout the season. These activities strengthen the bond between holidaymakers, farmers and local artisans. It’s a concrete way of showing that sustainable tourism can also be a rich and enjoyable experience.

Things to do in Praz de Lys-Sommand

In Praz de Lys-Sommand, even the youngest visitors have activities just for them! This winter, children aged 2 to 7 can try out a snow balance bike, a new version of the pedal-less bike. Thanks to skates attached to the wheels, they can glide safely along a groomed track. Organised every week by the Tourist Office, this activity allows children to have fun, learn balance and even take part in small races for the more daring.

Want to experience something out of the ordinary? The resort offers an introduction to dog sledding. For 45 minutes, step into the shoes of a musher and learn how to drive your own team under the guidance of professionals. This activity combines excitement, nature and animal companionship, perfect for discovering the mountains in a different way and leaving with unforgettable memories.

If you’re looking for an activity that’s both original and sporty, why not try snowshoe trekking? Offered by Vincent Gautier, this unique experience takes you off the beaten track to discover snow-covered, wild landscapes. With special equipment, you’ll be able to run nimbly on the snow, whether you’re a trail running enthusiast or simply curious to try a new form of exercise. An immersive and intense way to experience the mountains in winter.

The mountain resort of Praz de Lys-Sommand in summer

When the snow melts, Praz de Lys-Sommand reveals another side to its beauty. This small resort becomes a life-size playground for lovers of the great outdoors. Here, among flower-filled mountain pastures, spectacular views and original activities, summer is synonymous with freedom and authenticity.

Hiking and immersion in nature

The network of hiking trails covers around thirty routes, accessible to all. On foot, explore the coniferous forests, walk along the torrents or climb up to the Pic de Marcelly, perched at an altitude of 2,000 metres. The reward? A 360° panorama of Mont Blanc, the Jura and even Lake Geneva on a clear day. Guidebooks and maps will help you choose the perfect walk, whether you’re looking for a family outing or a more challenging hike.

Cycling and mountain biking: accessible challenges and fun

Cycling enthusiasts will find everything they could wish for on the eight cycle routes that criss-cross the region. The Col de la Ramaz, made famous by the Tour de France, offers a challenge for seasoned cyclists. For a more leisurely ride, the Giffre greenway is ideal for families. And if you want to explore without too much effort, opt for an electric bike and set off to discover the Loëx plateau, a Natura 2000 site.

Unusual activities and cultural discoveries

Praz de Lys – Sommand is also a lively, inhabited mountain. Watch cows being milked in the mountain pastures, chat with a shepherd from Pertuiset or let yourself be surprised by the Jourdy cave, a mysterious place nestled in the forest. Don’t miss the Chartreuse de Mélan, a peaceful monument that combines medieval architecture and contemporary art. And for a festive moment, the Fête de l’Alpage celebrates agricultural traditions every summer, as does La Jacquemarde, a gathering of vintage cars in a friendly atmosphere.

Sport and adventure: from trail running to paragliding

Looking for a little more adrenaline? Try your hand at trail running on technical trails, or let the wind carry you away while paragliding from Mieussy, the birthplace of the sport. The surrounding cliffs also offer supervised climbing sessions, accessible even to beginners. To go further, local guides offer off-trail excursions, perfect for a total immersion in nature.

Webcams at the Praz De Lys Sommand ski resort

If you want to see the current conditions at the ski resort and its natural surroundings, you will find the Praz De Lys Sommand webcams below, showing real-time images.

Praz De Lys Sommand

Hotels in the resort of Praz de Lys-Sommand

Hôtel Les Roches 1500 ***

An essential stop for mountain lovers. Nestled in the heart of the Sommand plateau, the hotel enjoys an exceptional setting. Comfort, friendliness and well-being thanks to its welcoming spaces. Restaurant, rooftop terrace, bar, wellness area, seminar room, disabled access, heated swimming pool, massage, equipment hire. Half-board stays available during the winter school holidays. Equipment hire for downhill skiing, ski touring and snowshoeing. Adults and children. Sledges, baby carriers, avalanche kits.

Chalet d’Alpage de Beauregard

Nestled in the hamlet of Bonnavaz, below Praz de Lys, the Chalet de Beauregard is a haven of peace in the heart of the mountain pastures, accessible only on snowshoes in winter. This self-catering chalet (spring water, solar panels) can accommodate up to 12 people in a warm and comfortable atmosphere, combining mountain charm and modernity.

Outside, a sauna and hot tub offer breathtaking views of the mountains. Massages are available upon reservation. The venue also hosts fasting and hiking courses led by a naturopath, as well as yoga retreats and, since 2023, Wim Hof ice water immersion sessions.

A unique place to recharge your batteries, far from the hustle and bustle.

Skiing in Praz de Lys-Sommand: the resort’s strengths

Located in the heart of the Chablais massif, between Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva, Praz de Lys-Sommand offers the perfect balance between unspoiled nature, a family atmosphere, and excellent snow quality. Unlike the large Alpine resorts, skiing here is on a human scale, in an authentic setting surrounded by meadows, forests, and panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif. Its altitude—between 1,250 and 1,985 meters—guarantees good snow conditions throughout the season, while the north-east orientation of the ski area helps to preserve the snow cover even in the mildest months.

The Praz de Lys-Sommand ski area has 55 kilometers of slopes spread over 24 well-balanced runs: 5 green, 9 blue, 8 red, and 2 black. Its layout is fluid and logical, with wide forest trails ideal for families and beginners, and more technical sections for experienced skiers. The ski lifts—13 in total—include modern chairlifts and conveyor belts, making it easy to move between the two sides of the domain: Praz de Lys, which is more dynamic and sun-oriented, and Sommand, which is quieter and perfect for those looking to ski in peace. The “Chevaly” slope, over 3 kilometers long, is one of the most iconic due to its length and views of Mont Blanc.

The resort is one of the hidden gems of Haute-Savoie thanks to its exceptional natural environment. Skiers here enjoy soft snow, fir forests, high plateaus with sweeping views, and an authentic mountain atmosphere. In addition to downhill skiing, Praz de Lys-Sommand offers one of the best Nordic skiing areas in the region, with over 60 kilometers of cross-country trails winding through meadows and plateaus. It also has marked snowshoe trails, cross-country skiing itineraries, and areas for sledding and family walks, making the resort a complete, accessible, and versatile destination.

In terms of services, the resort has managed to maintain a human dimension without sacrificing comfort: accommodation at the foot of the slopes, charming mountain restaurants, and small local shops that reinforce the feeling of community. Access is another plus point: located less than an hour from Geneva and Cluses, Praz de Lys-Sommand is an ideal alternative for weekend getaways, combining proximity, authenticity, and snow quality.

Useful tip for enjoying Praz de Lys-Sommand to the fullest

Start your day in the Chevaly sector, where the north-facing orientation guarantees firm snow and wide slopes that are ideal for warming up. Mid-morning, move on to the Sommand slope, which is sunnier and quieter, perfect for relaxed skiing with open views of the Aravis.

If you’re traveling with your family, take advantage of the beginner areas located on the Front de Neige in Sommand, with gentle lifts and safe slopes. On clear days, climb to the highest point of the domain to enjoy one of the best panoramic views of Mont Blanc in all of Haute-Savoie.

And if you fancy a different experience, book a cross-country skiing or snowshoeing outing at sunset: the golden light over the snow-covered meadows of Praz de Lys-Sommand is one of those images that will stay with you long after you’ve put your skis away.