La Clusaz
La Clusaz is a town in the French Alps.
Together with the neighboring town of Grand Bornand, La Clusaz forms the center of the Aravis ski area. Different from many French ski resorts, the atmosphere of La Clusaz remains true to the alpine village.
Get in
Drive over the Col des Aravis and drop down into the village (summer only as road closed in winter). In winter access via Annecy, Thones or via M40 motorway exist near Bonneville.
1 hour from Geneva airport. Airport Transfers available from 'Aravis Transfers.'
Do
La Clusaz is mainly a winter sport resort with more than 120 km of ski slopes for downhill skiing. It is highly rated by intermediate skiers with a wide range of excellent blue and red runs, and for advanced skiers there is large amount of accessible off piste on north facing combes.
Two areas are also available for cross country skiing on "Les Confins" and "Plateau de Beauregard"
Eat
Eating here is very typical of French mountain resorts.
La Ferme, on the slope overlooking the village, is a popular guesthouse and restaurant with excellent atmosphere. Great for traditional dishes including fondue.
Excellent pizzas available at Ugo H, halfway up the main street.
Le Foly located 3 km from La Clusaz in the Confins valley is well worth a visit.
Drink
There are many bars and a couple of clubs.
Le Bachal is a popular spot for drink, with good music and cosy booths.
Saltos is a typical Irish Bar. It is just above town centre, can be skied into. Can be lively on the right night.
Caves de Paccaly is a more expensive bar just down from Le Bachal. You get what you pay for of course. The covered outdoor area and live music in winter is worth a visit.
Sleep
Stay on the uphill side of town for best views and hotels.
- Peak Retreats (La Clusaz, Aravis Accommodation Specialist), ☏ +44 23 9283-9310. A range of self-catering apartments and hotels in La Clusaz and Le Grand Bornand. Accommodation, airport transfers, lift passes, ski school, equipment hire can be arranged. Bookable from the UK.
- Aravis Lodge (Ski Weekends and Short Break Ski Packages in La Clusaz and Grand Bornand), St Jean De Sixt (2 km from both La Clusaz and Grand Bornand, free bus to both.), ☏ +44 845 557 5983, info@skiweekender.com. Prices from £280 for 3 nights, including airport transfers, accommodation, meals, ski pass and ski hosting.