Flaine

Probably because it was purpose-built, the holiday destination of Flaine is one of the most user-friendly ski resorts in France: compact, with easy access to the pistes, and a location that ensures exceptional snow conditions. Flaine is situated beneath Mont Blanc, near Geneva, at the gateway to 'Le Grand Massif', one of the best ski and snowboard areas of France. From the nursery slopes, to an easy glide on the nearly nine mile (14km) blue Cascade run, or the off-piste challenge of the Combe de Gers, Flaine is a trend-setting, family-orientated resort that caters for all levels of skiers and boarders.Consisting of concrete apartment blocks built on three levels along the slopes, at an altitude of 5,250 feet (1,600m), in the centre of a natural bowl, this, the youngest resort in the French Alps, may not sound particularly appealing. Flaine may not conform to the archetypal image of the Alpine village, but it has been architecturally designed for comfort and convenience, and visitors are amazed at how the buildings blend in with the limestone of their surroundings. The three levels, Flaine-Foret, Flaine-Forum and Flaine-Front de Neige, are connected by elevators and pedestrian trails. The centre is car-free, with restaurants, bars and services grouped around two central shopping plazas. All activities are either close and easily accessible, or in the resort centre. There is also a cultural centre where classical and jazz music events are scheduled, a library and an art gallery. Though not exactly a fashionable destination, Flaine is increasing in popularity, particularly as a family ski resort, and caters very well for children.