Where is Le Grand Bornand?
Nestled between Mont Blanc, Lake Annecy and Switzerland, it’s arguably one of the most beautiful of the Savoyard villages. The backdrop is formed of the scenic Aravis mountains with the Bouchet Valley at the foot.
The charming village is located at 1000 metres and boasts an outdoor market, shops, a central plaza and a church.
If you’re wondering what to do in Le Grand Bornand, you’ll never be short of activities no matter the season. Let’s look at some of the best ones!
Get skiing and snowboarding
The 29-lift ski area is between 1000m and 2100m of elevation, with over 200km of snowy pistes. Enjoy cross-country trails, adaptive disabled skiing, a nordic area and a dedicated ESF ski school for all ages.
There’s a good mix of red, blue and green slopes, providing an ideal setting for beginners and intermediates. However, advanced skiers are also well-catered for with the stunning steep slopes of Mont Lachat and several off-piste areas. Take a look at the piste map to find the best spots!
You’ll find that prices are reasonable in Le Grand Bornand and booking is a breeze. If you fancy something a little more romantic, why not head for the Abondance and Cyclamens slopes in Chinaillon to try night skiing? (Open every Tuesday evening.)
Go for a hike
This traditional farming village is home to some spectacular walks for all abilities. Admire the picturesque Aravis mountain ranges or wander through the dappled shade of the forests on warmer days.
Many of the hiking trails start right in the heart of the village. For those higher up, the Rosay telecabin and Lachat chairlift are available throughout the summer months.
Find a great climb
If you’re up for even more of a challenge, check out the assortment of multi-pitch rock climbing routes on offer.
Via Ferrata La Tour du Jalouvre from Chinaillon is an ever-popular trail with a high difficulty level — but simply unbeatable views!
Take a road or mountain bike for a spin
Mountain bikers and road cyclists alike will delight in discovering incredible routes around Le Grand Bornand. Open all summer are more than 200km of marked mountain bike trails, several from the top of the Le Rosay gondola.
The Aravis mountain bike pass is well worth having and will give you access to the Le Chatelet chairlift.
Likewise, those with road bikes can enjoy some of the best-known climbs in the Alps, with Le Grand-Bornand’s privileged situation at the foot of the col de la Colombière.
Try your hand at paragliding
The village’s orientation makes it a real dream location for paragliding and seeing the sights from a whole new perspective.
Try an adult’s beginner’s tandem session for €120 and create memories you’ll never forget. This includes all the equipment you’ll need and can be booked on the Airlinks Academy website.
Browse properties in Le Grand Bornand
Give canyoning a go
For the adventurous explorer, canyoning is an exhilarating way to experience the beautiful landscapes of the area. Get stuck in and enjoy swimming, jumping, sliding and abseiling down the creaks and mountain canyons.
Beginners and experts are welcome here, the only requirement is knowing how to swim. Prices per person start from around €60 for a short canyon and €71 for a long canyon, including €11 for equipment rental.
Take to the skies in a hot air balloon
Marvel at the mountain ranges and valleys from up high and go wherever the wind takes you in a hot air balloon ride. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that’s enjoyed just as much by families and friends as it is by couples!
Spend a day in Annecy
Just a 30-minute drive away is the historic city of Annecy, known as “the Venice of the Alps”. Transdev also offers regular bus transfers between Le Grand Bornand and Annecy for just €8.
Spend a day at one of Europe’s most beautiful lakes with an abundance of activities on offer. Or take a stroll around the old town, exploring the array of boutique shops, restaurants and bars set against the dramatic mountainous backdrop.
Sample the produce at Le Grand Bornand Market
A visit to the famous market is a must to immerse yourself in the culture of the area. Pick up locally sourced goods including meats, cheeses and vegetables.
It takes place every Wednesday morning between 8am and 12:30pm in the centre of the village, all year round.
Check out all the local and seasonal events on offer and buy tickets here.
Get involved at La Forêt Des Dodes Adventure Park
If you’re still wondering what to do in Le Grand Bornand and you’re looking for something a bit different, this fun-filled adventure park has it all.
A 200-metre zip line, cable and Tyrolean traverses, rope bridges, catwalks, skate and bike high wires.
It features three action-packed courses for children and adults alike. Children under the age of 6 or below 1.1 metres in height will require supervision from an adult. Just bring a pair of comfortable closed shoes and off you go!
For more on the quintessential Alpine village of Le Grand Bornand and everything it has to offer, check out our destination guide. Then browse through our selection of stunning rental properties in the area and start planning your perfect getaway!
