La Clusaz – a French ski resort with the soul of Savoie

There are places you want to return to, even if you have not yet managed to get there for the first time. La Clusaz is exactly one of those. It is an Alpine resort in France where the snow whispers stories of the Alps and the bells of mountain cows blend with the laughter of visitors who have just come down from the slopes. Here, the French Alps are not a picture from a guidebook but a living story, where every day is a moment of happiness among the mountains.

The La Clusaz ski resort lies in a picturesque Savoyard valley, not far from Annecy and Geneva. It is not just a high-mountain ski area — it is a place where French elegance meets the true spirit of the Alps. The snow here is always soft, the chalets are warm, and the coffee tastes as if it were made just for you. On winter mornings the slopes of La Clusaz are covered in silver; in the evenings everything around looks like a Christmas postcard.

La Clusaz is not only a ski resort in France but also a living village where traditions have not disappeared under the pressure of tourism. Locals still greet each other in the streets, farmers continue to make reblochon cheese, and the air in the morning smells of freshly baked bread. It is this authenticity that makes the place special among dozens of glamorous Alpine destinations. That is why everyone who comes here even once returns again — not for new runs, but for the feeling of coming home.

Local residents proudly talk about their traditions: the old cheese fairs, the Shepherds’ Day festivities, and the ancient bell that calls everyone to the main square during celebrations. Even at the height of the season, when the streets are full of visitors, there is a sense of harmony — between nature, people and mountains. This is not an “artificial” resort, created purely for holidays, but the true mountain heart of Savoy, beating in the rhythm of snow, sunshine and simple pleasures.

Why choose La Clusaz for a winter holiday

Because there is no showy glamour here — only the sincerity of the mountains and the warmth of human smiles. Because skiing in France here is not just a sport, but the joy of moving. And because this is exactly where you realise that the best winter holidays in the Alps are those when you simply want to stop and watch the snow fall.

La Clusaz is a resort full of surprises. In the morning you ski down slopes sparkling in the sun, and an hour later you may be sitting on a terrace with a hot chocolate, listening to the sound of children’s skis somewhere nearby as they take their first steps on snow. This is a place where the Alpine winter does not feel harsh — it is gentle, cosy and almost homely.

In December, the village turns into a real Christmas fairy tale: the streets are decorated with garlands, a market appears on the square, and the air smells of cinnamon, mulled wine and cheese. The locals celebrate Christmas in a simple, heartfelt way — with carol singing, sleigh rides and festive evenings in chalets. That is when you understand that this is not just a resort in the French Alps — it is a place where the true spirit of winter lives.

When you plan a trip to La Clusaz, know that this is where time slows down. Every slope is a story, every street a photo to remember, every dinner by the fireplace a reason to fall in love with life again. And perhaps it is here that you will feel that La Clusaz is a ski resort that becomes a part of you.

Today, La Clusaz is known as a winter resort in France, a welcoming mountain destination with a warm character and centuries-old traditions. But once it was a small mountain hamlet of shepherds and farmers, hidden among the mountains of the La Clusaz area — in the heart of Savoy, far from major cities and trade routes. Its name comes from the Old French word “cluse”, meaning “mountain pass”. And indeed — the village grew on a natural pass between valleys linking Annecy and Aravis.

Origins and first settlements

The first inhabitants appeared here back in the Middle Ages. They raised livestock, made cheese and lived a peaceful life among the Alpine mountains. Agriculture and the trade of reblochon cheese became the foundation of the local economy. To this day, this cheese is the symbol of the region and an important part of Savoy’s gastronomic heritage.

For centuries the village remained isolated. The roads to it were difficult, and in winter, when the La Clusaz mountains were covered in snow, access to the settlement almost disappeared. Yet this very remoteness preserved its authenticity — wooden chalets, stone churches and the quiet of the mountains, undisturbed by time.

The beginning of the ski era

The story of the La Clusaz ski resort began at the start of the 20th century. In 1907 the first ski school opened here, and in the 1920s the first organised competitions took place. No one could have imagined then that this mountain resort in France would become a favourite destination for hundreds of thousands of travellers. The development of skiing and the construction of lifts in the 1950s completely changed village life. La Clusaz gradually transformed into a modern high-altitude ski resort in France.

Over time, athletes from all over the world began coming here. Several world champions in freestyle and snowboarding were born in La Clusaz. The resort became famous thanks to legendary names — in particular Candide Thovex, who turned La Clusaz into a symbol of freedom on the snow.

Tradition meets modernity

Despite its popularity, the La Clusaz resort in France has managed to keep a balance between development and soulfulness. In the centre still stands an old church with an 18th-century bell tower, and every Friday there is a farmers’ market where you can try cheese, honey and pastries made by locals. Many families have lived here for generations, combining farming with tourism — that is why La Clusaz feels like a living Alpine village rather than a purpose-built resort.

• 1907 — the first ski school opens in La Clusaz;
• 1950s — the first lifts and hotels are built;
• 1980s — international freestyle competitions appear;
• 2000s — La Clusaz becomes a renowned eco-tourism destination in France;
• Today — it is a high-altitude resort of La Clusaz with the authentic soul of Savoy.

The history of La Clusaz is an example of how a small mountain village preserved its identity while becoming one of the most genuine and welcoming resorts in the French Alps. Here, traditions live side by side with modern life, and the mountain air reminds you that true luxury is simplicity and harmony with nature.

If someone ever decides to create the perfect Alpine postcard, it will almost certainly be shot in La Clusaz. Everything here is so harmonious that even the snow seems to fall neatly — in even, photogenic flakes. The mountain slopes look as if someone has carefully brushed them before your arrival, and every chalet sits at exactly the angle that best catches the morning light. And no, this is not a film set — it is a real Alpine resort in France that simply lives beautifully.

La Clusaz is where architecture does not argue with nature but quietly sings along with it. Wooden chalets do not try to impress — they simply breathe the scent of pine and fireplace smoke. In the evenings their windows glow with warm light, as if every villager is saying to you: “Come in, we have cheese, mulled wine and a bedtime story.” This is the magic of the La Clusaz mountain resort — it is not flashy, not overly glamorous, but perfectly authentic.

Architecture that smells of wood and calm

Even modern hotels here are built with respect for tradition: no glass boxes or metal façades — only wood, stone and a touch of French charm. The central church with its 18th-century bell tower looks as though it is watching over the village and smiling slightly when visitors try to find the perfect angle for a photo. The square smells of fresh baking, and nearby the old clock strikes six — just in time for a hot chocolate or a glass of wine.

It is easy to lose your way among the streets of La Clusaz — and that might be the best thing that can happen to you. Around every corner there is a tiny cheese shop, a boutique with wooden toys or a workshop where an elderly craftsman still makes skis by hand. Everything looks as if Pinterest has come to life — only without filters or staged shots.

Nature you never want to leave

Around La Clusaz there is pure magic in the Alps of France. In summer, green meadows stretch out where cows look happier than some travellers, and in winter there is an endless sea of snow. The mountains of the La Clusaz resort stand around like spectators at a concert of nature: calm, majestic, with a light mist drifting over the peaks. From here you can see Mont Blanc — the very one from all the postcards, only now it is real and right in front of you.

Nearby is Lac des Confins, where even the water feels a little romantic, and the Beauregard plateau opens up a panorama that makes you want to breathe more deeply. For those who love outdoor activities, there are cycling routes and hiking trails winding through forests and Alpine flowers. And yes, every trail ends either at a café or a cheese dairy — because in France, even fitness has flavour.

• Over 130 km of slopes for skiing in the Alps;
• Dozens of summer routes for hiking, trekking and cycling;
• Panoramic views of the Aravis massif and Mont Blanc;
• Preserved Savoyard architecture — chalets that tell stories;
• Natural eco-friendliness: fewer cars, more fresh air.

La Clusaz is a resort in France that does not try to be trendy — it simply does not need to. It is already perfect: a little rustic, a little romantic, and entirely sincere. When you sit on the balcony of your chalet with a cup of coffee, watching the sunrise slowly spill over the mountains, it feels as though this place was made especially for you.

If you are the kind of person who likes to have “everything organised” even in the mountains, this section is for you. La Clusaz in the Alpine mountains is a place where even Google Maps seem to be in love with the landscape. It is easy to find your way around, even easier to lose track of time, and absolutely impossible not to smile when you see snow gently falling onto the sign of the local bakery.

To make sure your winter holiday goes smoothly (at least without unpleasant surprises), we have put together a short guide to the La Clusaz Alpine resort. How to get there, when to go, who this little piece of heaven is for — and how much money to bring so you have enough for both a ski pass and a dessert with reblochon. Because once you taste this cheese, you will definitely want to take a whole suitcase of it “as a souvenir”.

Where La Clusaz is located

The resort is located in the department of Haute-Savoie, in the Auvergne–Rhône–Alpes region, about 30 km from Annecy and 50 km from Geneva. It is part of the charming Aravis mountain range, considered one of the most scenic in the French Alps. That is why it is easy to get here both by plane and by car: from Geneva Airport it is about an hour’s drive along picturesque mountain roads.

The journey to La Clusaz is already a highlight of your trip. The road runs through valleys where shepherds still tend their cows even in the snow, and over bridges with views that make you want to stop and take a photo on the spot. Buses and shuttles from Annecy and Geneva run regularly, but if you are driving, be prepared to be constantly distracted by “wow” views. It feels as though even your sat nav is admiring the mountains and deliberately suggesting you drive a little slower.

Best time to visit

If you dream of skiing in the Alps, the winter season in La Clusaz runs from December to April. There is plenty of snow here even when neighbouring resorts have already “melted” and given in to spring. Locals joke that “La Clusaz has a deal with the snow” — that is how reliable the snow cover is. At this time the village lives to its own rhythm: the smell of mulled wine, the sound of skis and the laughter of children taking their first runs create the atmosphere of a true winter fairy tale. In winter, the resort becomes a buzzing hive — with pistes, festivals, lights and hot chocolate on every corner.

If you prefer walks, hiking trails and green Savoy, then come in summer, from June to September. During this period, the La Clusaz Alpine resort takes off its winter coat and puts on a green dress: the slopes are covered in grass, cow bells ring, and the air smells of pine and hay. It is the season of picnics by Lac des Confins, hikes to the Beauregard plateau and evenings when the sun sinks behind the peaks, leaving the sky tinted pink, like after a glass of wine.

Summer in La Clusaz is a completely different story: people cycle, take lifts up the mountains simply to enjoy the panorama of the Alps of France, or visit local farms where you can try cheese made just a few hours earlier. And although it is a little easier to walk around without ski gear, the feeling of freedom remains the same. So, whatever the season, the high-altitude resort of La Clusaz will find a way to win your heart — whether with snowy slopes or the lavender-scented Savoyard breeze.

Budget and impressions

Prices in La Clusaz are “French-style fair”: not the cheapest, but without the eye-watering figures you might see in Courchevel. There are hotels of all categories, plenty of cosy apartments and family chalets. A typical daily budget is from €120 to €200, including accommodation, ski pass and meals. But the main thing is how it feels: even a coffee with a croissant seems tastier here because you drink it with a view of the Alpine peaks.

La Clusaz is one of those places where you arrive “for three days” and end up staying for a week. Because every day starts with the thought: “Just one more run and I’ll go home”, and ends with: “All right, one more day — and then I’ll definitely leave”. But you still do not rush home — because in La Clusaz, time seems to flow a little more slowly than anywhere else.

Every mountain village has its own soul, but La Clusaz also has a distinct sense of humour. Even the local stories here smell of reblochon cheese and hot wine. If you ask locals where the name comes from, they will smile and say it is from the old word “cluse” — a mountain gorge. Then they will add: “But if you have stayed here even for a day, it is no longer a gorge, it is a trap. Because you will not want to leave.”

They say that reblochon was invented right here, when farmers decided to “cheat” a little on their taxes. They did not milk their cows completely before the tax collector came — and then milked them again in secret afterwards. The milk turned out richer, the cheese creamier, and the story more delicious. Today this “rebellious cheese” is a source of national pride in Haute-Savoie. In La Clusaz it is served with almost everything — even with snow, if only it did not melt.

The villagers are very fond of their cows. Once a year, during Fête de l’Alpage, they become real stars of the catwalk: decorated with flowers and bells, surrounded by photographers. Travellers applaud, children laugh, and someone always jokes that in La Clusaz even the livestock know they are in France — and behave with proper dignity.

But it is not only the cows that are celebrated here. The La Clusaz mountains in the French Alps have raised more than one champion — the legendary freerider Candide Thovex comes from here. Locals say he loves snow so much that he even skis on grass in summer. Perhaps that is why the pistes here have this special energy — a lightness that makes you want to live life to the fullest.

And there is one more detail that rarely appears in guidebooks: in the centre of the village stands an old church, and when its bell rings out into the silence of a winter evening, it feels as though it is not a bell, but the very heart of the Alps beating under the snow. At that moment even the keenest photographers forget about their cameras. Because La Clusaz is not just a ski resort — it is a place where nature, people and humour play the same tune.

• La Clusaz is one of the oldest Alpine settlements, mentioned as early as the 15th century.
• The famous reblochon cheese — “the tastiest act of tax protest” — was born here.
• The resort has over 130 km of runs, five mountain sectors and hundreds of smiles on the slopes.
• Locals joke: “We are not afraid of the cold — we ski on it.”

So if you are looking not just for a winter holiday in the French Alps but a destination with real character, come to La Clusaz. Here even the snow falls gracefully, and every smile seems part of the landscape. Who knows — perhaps in this village you will find your own little French “je ne sais quoi” among the mountains and the aroma of warm reblochon.

In La Clusaz they celebrate everything possible: winter, cheese, sunshine, snow and even a good mood. And they do it so “à la française” that you immediately want to order a glass of wine, put on a beret and say “bonjour” to everyone you meet. The resort lives from event to event — from ski competitions to proper village fêtes with music, dancing and the smell of reblochon sizzling on the grill.

The most famous celebration is Fête de l’Alpage, the Day of the Mountain Pastures. It is a wonderful mix of tradition and open-air theatre: farmers bring out their decorated cows, children sing old songs, and visitors film everything as if they have wandered onto the set of a French film. The atmosphere is pure joy — snow seems to melt even in August, and your heart somewhere between the laughter and the aroma of fresh cheese.

In winter, the La Clusaz Alpine resort turns into a stage for festive events. The “Radiomeuh Circus Festival” takes place here — a music festival right on the snow with DJs, mulled wine and dancing in ski boots. At the end of the season, the traditional “Défi Foly” challenge is held, where daredevils on skis and snowboards try to fly across a lake. Yes, fly. And yes, most of them do not make it — but everyone has a good laugh.

Christmas in La Clusaz is a fairy tale that even adults look forward to like children. The village is decorated with hundreds of lights, a wooden Christmas tree is set up in the main square, and the air is filled with the scent of cinnamon and hot chocolate. Locals say: “Christmas without snow is not a disaster, but without La Clusaz — that is a pity.” Every evening there are concerts, street shows, and even Father Christmas arrives on skis — how else would he travel in the mountains?

And of course, New Year’s Eve. That is a story of its own. A night when the sky explodes with fireworks over the peaks and you hear hundreds of toasts around you: “to happiness, to love, and to a new run without falls!”. The French do not shout “hooray” — they simply smile, hug and softly say “bonne année”, which means “happy new year”. And that describes the winter holidays in La Clusaz perfectly — warm, heartfelt, with the scent of snow and happiness.

• December–January: Christmas markets, fire shows, torchlit descents.
• March: Radiomeuh Circus Festival — electronic music right on the slopes.
• April: Défi Foly — the legendary “flying” race across the lake.
• Summer: Fête de l’Alpage — a celebration of mountain life, shepherds and nature.
• All year round: food festivals, markets and open-air concerts.

They say that you can come to La Clusaz in the French Alps without any particular plan — and a celebration will still find you. Here every day feels like a small miracle: people laugh, children slide in the snow, and someone is always playing the accordion outside a chalet. That is when you realise — this is not just a ski resort, it is a place where winter has a heart.

When you arrive in La Clusaz, it feels as though even the snow has its own timetable: in the morning it sparkles, in the afternoon it calls you to the slopes, and in the evening it lies quietly under the stars. The resort is so full of life that every day feels like a small story — with the aroma of coffee, laughter on the lifts and the soft sound of skis on the snow. Everything around breathes comfort and adventure: jagged mountain peaks, wooden chalets, bright shop windows filled with cheese and ski gear, and the smell of hot chocolate drifting above the main square.

And it does not matter whether it is your first time here or you already know every twist of the pistes — La Clusaz in France always has something new to offer. For some it is peace in the silence of a snowy forest; for others, fresh adrenaline on a steep descent; for someone else, the tastiest reblochon of their life. It is a place where it is impossible to sit still: it is as if the village itself whispers, “Go outside, it is far too beautiful here to stay in your room.”

Skiing, snowboarding and endless slopes

La Clusaz is a ski resort in France that you simply cannot confuse with any other. There are more than 130 km of pistes of varying difficulty, spread across five peaks — Beauregard, Manigod, l’Étale, Aiguille and La Balme. From gentle blue slopes to challenging black runs and wild freeride zones — everyone will find their own pace, rhythm and mood.

And there is a special atmosphere on the slopes. Locals say: “Skiing in La Clusaz in the French Alps is not just sport, it is the art of moving beautifully.” So even if you are a beginner, no one will judge you — they will help, encourage and teach you to love the mountains the way the Savoyards do.

Hiking trails and cycling routes

When the snow melts, La Clusaz does not go to sleep — it wakes up in a different way. The Alpine mountains turn green, revealing dozens of hiking trails and cycling routes on their slopes. You can walk up to the viewpoint at Col des Aravis, from where you can see Mont Blanc, or hike up to the pastures where shepherds still make cheese over an open fire.

If you love adventure, hire an e-bike and explore the Aravis valley — you will discover villages, waterfalls and old farms where you can taste the freshest milk of your life. And if you simply want silence, a short early-morning walk is enough. In the La Clusaz mountain resort, dawn smells of pine, and the crisp air seems to whisper: “Life is beautiful”.

For romantics and families

For couples there are evening strolls through snowy streets, saunas with mountain views and golden-hour runs on the slopes. For families there is an ice rink, children’s ski schools and warm chalets that smell of cocoa. For everyone — their own La Clusaz. Locals like to joke: “Even penguins would have romantic dates here.”

La Clusaz is a resort that resets your pace of life. Here you forget about hurry, swap your “to-do list” for a “joy list”, and suddenly realise that the best thing you can do in the Alps is simply live here for a little longer.

La Clusaz is not just a destination, it is a departure point for countless discoveries. Sitting in a cosy chalet with a cup of coffee and looking at the map, you realise that there are dozens of wonderful places you can reach within an hour. The Alps here seem made for little escapes — every pass unveils a new landscape, every village has its own accent and its own story.

Even if you feel that you have already seen all the mountains in the world, Savoy still knows how to surprise you. In the morning you can ski in La Clusaz and in the afternoon drink coffee by Lake Annecy, watching Mont Blanc reflected in the water. This is one of those regions where every trip to the Alps is not a route, but an adventure. Sometimes it feels as though nature itself is your guide: as soon as you step beyond the village, a new story begins.

Annecy — the “Venice of France”

Just 30 km from La Clusaz lies a town that looks as though it were painted in watercolours. Annecy is a blend of old canals, medieval streets and an incredibly clear lake the French call the “Pearl of the Alps”. Every cobblestone has its own story, every little bridge looks like it was designed for a photo captioned “French calm”.

In summer, the town lives to the rhythm of water — the promenades are full of visitors, boats glide across the lake, and locals languidly sip coffee on terraces, watching paragliders drifting through the sky. In winter everything changes: the canals are wrapped in mist and festive lights shine on the squares. Annecy turns into a genuine Christmas fairy tale — with markets, the smell of cinnamon and chocolate, ice rinks right by the town hall and music spilling out of the shops.

Do not forget to climb up to Château d’Annecy — its towers rise above the town like guardians of time. From there you get a view that elicits a quiet “wow” even from the most reserved travellers: turquoise water, snow-capped peaks and an old town that looks like an illustration from a storybook. In the castle museum you can see old maps of Savoy, tools of Alpine craftsmen and paintings by artists trying to capture the same mountain silence you feel when you stand there in person.

Col des Aravis — a pass with a view of Mont Blanc

Only 15 minutes from the resort lies the legendary mountain pass Col des Aravis. It is a place where the mountains feel closer and the air more transparent. There is a sweeping panorama of Mont Blanc, and even locals who have seen it hundreds of times still stop to look once more. You can have a coffee in a tiny chalet, take a photo that will become your favourite winter memory, or simply enjoy the silence broken only by cow bells and the wind in the high pastures.

The village of Manigod — the quiet charm of Savoy

Not far away is Manigod, a village where time seems to have forgotten to move on. It is the birthplace of world-famous chef Marc Veyrat, and local families still bake bread in ancient stone ovens. Come here for peace, the smell of pine forests and a plate of real Savoyard fondue. Locals joke that in Manigod people speak more slowly because rushing spoils the taste of life.

La Clusaz is the perfect base for exploring the region: in the morning you are on skis, at lunchtime you are drinking coffee in Annecy, and in the evening you are back in your chalet by the fire. And there is no need to rush. In Savoy, even a short trip seems longer — simply because you want to stretch out the pleasure.

Mountains are a beauty that demands respect. And although La Clusaz is one of the friendliest and most comfortable resorts in the French Alps, it is still worth following a few simple but important rules. As the French like to joke: “If you want a good day in the mountains, respect the snow and do not argue with the weather.”

The French Alps live by their own rules. Even if the sun is shining in the morning, a snowstorm can start by lunchtime. Before going out, check the forecast in an app or on the local information boards near the lifts. If you see an avalanche risk sign, take it seriously, even if you think you are “only going a tiny bit off-piste”. In the mountains, “a tiny bit” can sometimes end in a search operation.

Clothing — the key to comfort

Temperatures in La Clusaz can change several times during the day: sun, wind and snow take turns like a theatre performance directed by nature itself. In the morning it might be clear and pleasantly mild, and after lunch thick clouds bring fine snow that falls so gently it is like someone dusting the peaks with icing sugar. Layering is your best friend: thermal underwear, a fleece and a windproof jacket will save you when it suddenly turns chilly on the lift.

Do not forget goggles, a helmet and sunscreen — in the Alps you need it even in winter, as the sun reflects off the snow with double strength. If you feel you have “just caught a bit of colour”, the reality is you have just acquired a French version of Alpine sunburn. It is also worth having a flask with tea or coffee, because even the keenest skiers sometimes need a short break just to breathe in the cold air and enjoy the view.

And do not forget the little things that can rescue your day: hand warmers, spare gloves, a moisturising lip balm and a small bar of chocolate in your pocket — in the French Alps this is not a luxury but a strategic energy reserve. Above all, do not try to look “like in an advert”, because true mountain style is warmth, a smile and a healthy dose of common sense.

Skiing smart

On the slopes of the resort there are countless options — from easy blue runs to extreme black pistes where your heart starts beating faster before you even set off. Alpine La Clusaz has more than 130 km of groomed descents, as well as freeride zones that attract true adrenaline seekers. Even if you are a beginner, do not worry: there are more than ten ski schools, and French instructors have a special talent for teaching in a way that makes you laugh more than you fall.

If you are unsure of your skills, choose runs that match your level — in La Clusaz it is easy thanks to clear signage and interactive maps. All the pistes are well maintained, and the lift system allows you to change area quickly and avoid crowds. Fog is common on the passes — even experienced skiers slow down in such conditions. Locals say: “If you see fewer than three snowflakes, it is time for a café.” And remember: red cheeks after a day of skiing are lovely, but a red card from rescue services is not.

Travel insurance — a must

Even if you have skied a hundred times, insurance is your peace of mind — and protection for your wallet. In France, mountain rescue operations are paid services and the bill can be a nasty surprise. Take out a policy that covers winter sports — it costs less than a fondue dinner and could save you from huge expenses in case of injury.

• Emergency services (EU): 112
• Fire / medical assistance: 18
• Police / gendarmerie: 17

La Clusaz is a place where adventure and peace go hand in hand. It is enough to follow basic rules, listen to the mountain air and never lose respect for nature — and your winter holiday in France will turn into a story you will happily retell many times over a glass of wine.

As the festive season approaches, we all dream of the same thing — surrounding ourselves and our loved ones with a real fairy tale, with warmth, the smell of cinnamon and the sound of laughter. People search for that magic all over the world, but only the Alpine mountains seem to give it so generously. Here even the snow falls with a sense of style, and the air smells of cheese and freshly baked baguette. No wonder that among the places to escape the hustle and bustle, the La Clusaz high-mountain ski area holds a special place in travellers’ hearts. This Alpine resort is not just a place to ski — it is a stage where your own winter story unfolds, complete with champagne, snowflakes and a touch of French charm.

They say that if you spend New Year’s Eve in La Clusaz or celebrate Christmas in the French Alps, the whole coming year will be warm, even if it is snowing fiercely or a blizzard is raging outside. And frankly, the French are rarely wrong when it comes to style — especially when it comes to happiness. People come here not only for the slopes, but also for the atmosphere. The celebrations here are never forced — they live in the heart of every local. The French joke: “If you have spent the winter holidays in La Clusaz, you definitely have not forgotten how to smile.” And we would add — nor have you forgotten that happiness often smells like hot fondue and snowflakes landing right on your nose.

Christmas in La Clusaz

The beginning of December in the Alps is the time when the La Clusaz ski resort in France turns into a real winter wonderland. The streets glow with fairy lights, the windows of chalets flicker with the light of fireplaces, and the valley is filled with the scent of hot chocolate and cinnamon. The village is decorated with wooden figures and wreaths of fir branches that bring back memories of childhood and letters to Father Christmas. In the centre, the Marché de Noël Christmas market opens, where among the snow-topped stalls you can try crisp waffles, cheese, mulled wine and sweet chestnuts crackling over the fire.

In the evening, the village square fills with music: local choirs sing, sleigh bells jingle and children’s laughter echoes across the snow. The most anticipated moment is the appearance of the French Father Christmas, who traditionally skis down from the mountains, waving his mitten at the children. They say that even adults start believing in miracles again at that moment. The festive atmosphere is so genuine that it feels as though the snowflakes are dancing to Christmas melodies and the air itself is filled with warmth and calm.

• 🎅 Photos with Père Noël — daily from 17 to 24 December.
• 🎵 Christmas concerts in the church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
• 🕯 Live nativity scene and performances in the village square.

New Year in La Clusaz

As midnight approaches, the La Clusaz mountain resort glows with a special light. Hundreds of people gather in the main square with glasses of champagne, and fireworks explode over the snow, reflecting in the white slopes. No one is in a hurry — everyone is savouring the moment, the warmth of the company and the beauty of the mountains shimmering in the lights.

After the countdown, mountain jazz nights and chalet parties begin, where instead of pretension there is laughter, dancing and hot chocolate. The most enthusiastic celebrate the first morning of the year on the top of Beauregard, starting the new year literally on a high.

When the first rays of the sun touch the snowy slopes, it feels as if even the mountains are greeting the new day. The air is as fresh as a promise, and the snow sparkles as though someone had scattered millions of diamonds at your feet. This kind of New Year holiday in the mountains stays in your heart for a long time — without chaos, but with a deep feeling of true happiness. Because celebrating New Year in France is not only about champagne and fireworks; it is about that moment when you stand in the middle of the Alps and realise: life is beautiful as long as there is snow, smiles and a mountain sky above you.

There are resorts that impress with luxury, and those that win you over with their sincerity. La Clusaz belongs to the latter. It is a ski resort in the French Alps where you do not just ski — you breathe the mountains, listen to cow bells, smell hot chocolate in the frosty air and catch that very moment of happiness you never want to let go. Even the snow seems to fall more slowly here, as if giving you time to savour the beauty of each second.

People come here to ski, but they stay because they find something more — peace, harmony and a feeling of home. In La Clusaz you do not need to prove anything — it is enough simply to be. It even feels as though the mountains smile when you try fondue for the first time after a long day on the slopes. And if you ask anyone who has ever visited this mountain resort in France, they will say: “It is not just a resort, it is a state of mind.”

Some people say that love at first sight is a myth. But anyone who has seen dawn over the Aravis peaks will disagree. The views of La Clusaz are where your heart begins to beat to a French melody: a little slower, more tenderly, and with the inevitable aftertaste of Savoyard wine. So next time someone asks where to find the warmest winter holiday in the Alps, just smile and say: “In La Clusaz.” Because here you will find both the heart of the mountains and the soul of France.

So, are you ready? It is time to pack your suitcase, find your gloves, download a playlist of French chansons and head for the mountains. Because sometimes happiness simply lives in a small Alpine village where the snow sparkles, people smile and life itself feels a little simpler. And that village has a name — La Clusaz.