CHILL OUT ZONE
France|October 2020
Alpine resorts have long been known for their restorative properties, catering to both body and soul. Lara Dunn enjoys some active relaxation in Annecy Mountains
Lara Dunn
CHILL OUT ZONE

My stay in Annecy Mountains, just an hour’s journey from Geneva Airport, began in La Clusaz. A compact resort with the authentic character of a real village rather than a tailor-made ski town, everything here is on the doorstep, from the ski lifts to the numerous wonderful spas. Right from the word go, a pattern very quickly began to develop for my stay.

The day would start out on the mountain. Sometimes with a spot of skiing, taking the first lift up to enjoy the amazing network of relaxed blues that are one of the area’s highlights (for me, a nervous intermediate skier) – here, it’s straightforward to explore without ever having to overdo it.

Charmed by La Clusaz

A lunch on the mountain somewhere was a must, a chance to enjoy some of the region’s justifiably famous specialities. The Restaurant La Ferme above the blue Le Bossonnet piste offered a surprise one day in the form of the Reblochonnade and Braserade. I’ve been visiting the French Alps for three decades, but this was my first experience of this tabletop grill/ raclette combo on which you melt your own cheese while simultaneously cooking fresh, raw steak pieces. All the best of Alpine produce crammed into one crowded table. I think I rolled, rather than skied down that day.

This story is from the October 2020 edition of France.

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This story is from the October 2020 edition of France.

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