La Clusaz - village

Few French villages are more picturesque than La Clusaz, with its traditional village square and Savoyard church. Bustling streets fan out from the square, each boasting a collection of excellent shops, bars and hotels – and all with a very French feel. There is no more atmospheric sight than La Clusaz in mid-winter, cocooned in snow.

Accommodation

There's a wide choice of accommodation, but solidly middle-range rather than with any delusions of grandeur. You need to be happy here in 2- or 3-star hotels – but there are some good ones. The Hôtel Beauregard is directly on the slopes, a ski-lift a few paces away. The Alpen Roc is in the centre of town, and has a well-deserved reputation for good food.

There are good-standard apartments to be had too. The Carlina is popular, as is the ski-in, ski-out Les Sapins.

Ski/snowboard equipment hire

As in many resorts now, the way forward seems to be to rent equipment online before you go. You can still change your chosen equipment if it doesn't suit, and it cuts down on the hassle in resort – plus you’ll get a healthy discount.

Sport 2000 and Skimium both operate in La Clusaz.

Non-ski activities

Just soaking up the ambiance is a popular activity. There are cleared walks, snowshoeing, tobogganing, an ice-skating rink and an aqua-centre with indoor and outdoor heated pools.

A good selection of shops sell local produce, and a must-visit is the outdoor market, every Monday in La Place de l'Eglise. Cabane & Compagnie is good for gifts and souvenirs – and it's easy to get to the delightful lakeside town of Annecy for more serious shopping.

Childcare

La Clusaz is a great family choice and has a range of childcare options.