Les Saisies was a relatively modest alpine pasture region until the 1960s, when ski tourism began to develop. The village gained greater prominence during the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville, when it hosted the biathlon events. Since then, the resort has grown while maintaining its traditional alpine charm, with chalet-style buildings and strong ties to local heritage.
Description
Altitude: 1,650 meters (resort level), with ski areas ranging from 1,200 m to 2,060 m
Location: Between the Mont Blanc and Beaufortain ranges, offering panoramic views
Architecture: Predominantly wooden chalets and traditional Savoyard style
Access: Close to towns like Albertville and Megève, and well connected by road
Les Saisies is known for being family-friendly and less crowded than larger resorts, with a laid-back atmosphere and a mix of gentle and more challenging terrain.
Typical Food (Cuisine Savoyarde)
The region is famous for rich, cheese-based mountain food, perfect after a day outdoors:
Beaufort Cheese – A local PDO cheese known as the “Prince of Gruyères”
Tartiflette – Potatoes, reblochon cheese, onions, and lardons
Fondue Savoyarde – Melted cheese dish served with bread
Raclette – Heated cheese scraped onto potatoes, charcuterie, and pickles
Diots – Savoyard sausages, often cooked in white wine
Croûte Savoyarde – Cheese and bread baked in white wine and cream
Local restaurants, alpine huts, and markets often feature these dishes alongside regional wines and liqueurs.
Winter Activities
Les Saisies is a well-rounded winter resort, offering more than just downhill skiing:
Alpine Skiing
Part of the Espace Diamant ski area: ~192 km of slopes
Suitable for all levels, with beautiful tree-lined and panoramic runs
Cross-Country Skiing
One of the best in France, with 120+ km of Nordic trails
Olympic-level facilities and scenic forested tracks
Other Winter Fun
Snowshoeing trails through quiet forests
Dog sledding and snowmobiling
Tobogganing areas for families
Ice skating rink
Wellness and spa centers
Summer Activities
In summer, Les Saisies transforms into a nature and outdoor sports paradise:
Hiking & Nature
Access to trails in the Beaufortain Massif
Scenic walks with views of Mont Blanc
Wildflower meadows and alpine lakes
Mountain Biking
Bike park and marked trails for downhill and enduro
E-bike rentals available with charging stations
Other Summer Activities
Paragliding for stunning aerial views
Tree-top adventure parks
Trail running events
Archery, mini-golf, and tennis
Guided tours of Beaufort cheese dairies and mountain farms
Ideal For
Families (labelled “Famille Plus” for family-friendly services)
Nature lovers looking for peaceful scenery
Sports enthusiasts in both winter and summer
Food lovers keen to explore Alpine gastronomy