Le Grand Bornand

Nestled in the heart of the Aravis massif in Haute-Savoie, between Mont Blanc and Lake Annecy, Le Grand-Bornand is more than just a resort: it is the embodiment of the French mountain art of living. An international tourist destination in winter and a genuine farming village year-round, it cultivates an exquisite paradox: it boasts the highest concentration of bicentennial chalets with traditional "tavaillon" (wooden tile) roofs while simultaneously offering a trendy, "Arty," and modern vibe envied throughout the Alps. Le Grand-Bornand is experienced on two levels: at 1000 meters, the typical Savoyard Village with its lively square and bulb-domed church; and at 1300 meters, Le Chinaillon, the main ski base at the foot of the majestic Mont Lachat.

Skiing Facing the Aravis Range & Land of Biathlon The alpine ski area offers 84 km of slopes (with access to the 220 km of the Aravis massif shared with La Clusaz) set in a cinematic landscape. Skiing in Le Grand-Bornand means gliding while facing the Aravis Range, a spectacular limestone wall that glows fiery red at sunset. The resort highlights this natural "Land Art" with unique experiences like "Sunset Skiing," extending the fun into the twilight hours. However, Le Grand-Bornand is world-famous as a Nordic skiing stronghold. It is the only French venue to regularly host the Biathlon World Cup (Annecy-Le Grand-Bornand) in its Olympic stadium located right in the village center. With 58 km of cross-country trails winding through the Bouchet Valley and the Col de la Colombière, it is the training ground of champions.

Capital of Reblochon Cheese and "Arty" Lifestyle Le Grand-Bornand holds an unusual record: it is the leading agricultural commune in the department, with as many cows as inhabitants. It is the birthplace of Farmhouse Reblochon cheese. Here, "local produce" isn't a marketing buzzword; it's a daily reality tasted in farmhouses and gourmet restaurants. Far from being stuck in the past, the resort vibrates with intense creativity. Between major charity events like Glisse en Cœur, the international children's festival "Au Bonheur des Mômes," and the workshops of passionate artisans (potters, saddlers), Le Grand-Bornand offers an exceptional lifestyle, blending pastoral tradition with cultural avant-garde. It is the ultimate "Chic & Authentic" destination.