Sandwiched between Geneva and Chamonix, Le Grand Massif is France's fourth-biggest ski area and boasts 134 runs over 265kms of mostly intermediate terrain. Skiers and snowboarders at every level of competence are catered for and, together with challenging off-piste and reliable snowfall, and views of Mont Blanc, Le Grand Massif is hard to beat.

Le Grand Massif is fed by five villages that are an attraction in themselves. From purpose-built Flaine to historic Samoens, Le Grand Massif is rich in activity, architecture and history. Lodgings are numerous, featuring hotels, chalets and apartments, and there are plenty of shops and activities for non-skiers and après-skiers.

If you are an intermediate skier, Le Grand Massif is for you because 97 runs out of the 134 are set aside for lower and upper intermediate skiers and snowboarders, while the rest are shared by beginners and experts. The 134 runs add up to a staggering 265kms of brilliant skiing. Eighty lifts service and link the entire area, with a 74,500-person per hour capacity. Cross-country skiing is also available.

Other activities and facilities include: three jam parks for snowboarders, with a half-pipe; a natural ice-skating rink; an ice-driving school; and ice-shoeing. In addition, there is a swimming pool and several saunas. Après-ski features a purpose-built concert hall, featuring classical and jazz performances, a cultural centre, and several bars and cafés.

The mid-December to late April ski season has its best snow in February and March, and its cheapest weeks in December and April.

There are many options for getting to Le Grand Massif, with most people choosing to fly to Geneva and taking the convenient Skibus direct to the resort (1 hour, 30 minutes). Returns are also available.