Semnoz

The Basics

Views from Crêt de Châtillon, the mountain’s highest peak, take in Annecy and Bourget lakes and alpine giants such as Mont Pourri, the Massif des Écrins, and Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps. Strict rules around construction have limited development, protecting untouched wilderness with ski slopes dipping in and out of pine forests. Easily accessible from Annecy, the mountain is popular with locals and tourists.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Semnoz has Nordic and downhill (alpine) ski areas.
• The alpine ski slopes comprise 18 runs; 7 are green, 5 are blue, and 6 are red.
• Summer activities include hiking, mountain biking, and sledding.
• Easy slopes and fun activities make the area a great family destination.
• The mountain has two peaks: Crêt de l’Aigle and Crêt de Châtillon.
• There are restaurants in Semnoz, but hotels are several miles away.

How to Get There

The easiest way to reach Semnoz is with a car or on tours. Taxis take around 25 minutes from Annecy, and regular bus connections take 40 minutes. From the nearest airport, Geneva International Airport, it’s one hour by car—pack your passport, as you'll cross the Swiss-French border.

When to Get There

Prime times to visit are the winter sports season from December to April, or summer from June to September for hiking, biking, and summer sledding. During shoulder season, accommodations are less expensive, and the mountains come alive with color: russet shades in autumn and alpine flowers in spring.

How to Get Around in Semnoz

Don’t let the moniker "middle mountains" fool you: Somnez has 18 ski runs and is very hilly. Electric mountain biking is a fantastic way to get around while avoiding the fear that your legs will seize up on traveling uphill. Some tours make it easy and offer bikes and guides —but you’ll still have to earn the lakeside pint at the end.

Why is Semnoz famous?

A popular spot for skiing in winter and hiking and biking in summer, Semnoz is famous for its pristine landscape and sweeping views over Lake Annecy and Mont Blanc. The two peaks atop Semnoz—Crêt de l’Aigle and Crêt de Châtillon—attract everyone from snowboarders to bird watchers year-round.

When is the best time of year to visit Semnoz?

It depends on your favorite alpine activities. Fans of downhill skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, should visit between November and March. Hikers and bikers will find the best time of year to explore is between June and September, while photographers can capture colorful landscapes in May and October.

How can I reach Semnoz?

You can reach Semnoz by rental car or taxi from Annecy in less than 30 minutes. Public buses take about 40 minutes between the town and the resort area. Alternatively, join a cycling day trip or sightseeing driving tour to reach the panoramic peaks.

Is Semnoz a family-friendly destination?

Yes, Semnoz has several easy ski runs and walking trails that are ideal for young children to explore. All are about a 30-minute drive from Annecy. In addition, the mountain peaks have wide expanses of gentle slopes blanketed in snow for winter sledding and in wildflowers for summer frolicking.

Is Le Semnoz ski resort expensive?

No. Le Semnoz is considered much more affordable than the more famous and exclusive ski resorts in the French Alps. It has a relaxed atmosphere, and its chalet eateries, ski and sporting equipment rentals, and other visitor services are budget-friendly. It’s also inexpensive to reach by public bus.

Are there restaurants on Semnoz?

Yes, a handful of restaurants and snack bars on Semnoz serve lunch, though most close in the late afternoon and do not serve dinner. There is also one traditional chalet-style hotel on the mountain peak with an in-house restaurant that's open for lunch and dinner.