Aillon-Margériaz

Aillon-Margériaz is a ski resort in the commune of Aillon-le-Jeune, spread across two mountainsides of the Bauges massif in Savoie — the Espace Aillons-Margériaz combines sectors on Mont Pelat (Aillons 1000) and Mont Margériaz (Margériaz 1400). The area sits within the Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park, recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark for its geological and natural heritage.

How do you get there?

The resort lies between Chambéry and Annecy, making it one of the most accessible ski areas from major cities in the region. It takes about 30 minutes to drive from Chambéry, and roughly 45 minutes from Aix-les-Bains or Annecy. That short drive makes Aillon-Margériaz an easy day-trip destination rather than a long mountain expedition.

What will you see?

The ski area spans altitudes from 1,000 m to 1,900 m, offering around 36–40 km of downhill runs in total. The Margériaz 1400 sector (1,400–1,845 m) alone counts 22 marked pistes across all levels: 5 green, 13 blue, 2 red, and 2 black — a layout clearly built around families, beginners, and skiers who prefer a relaxed pace. Ten lifts serve the area, including one chairlift.

Beyond alpine skiing, the resort runs a full winter program: marked cross-country ski trails, snowshoe routes, ski touring itineraries, sledging, and even dog-sledding excursions. This mix draws not just downhill skiers but visitors looking for a quieter way to experience the Bauges winter landscape.

In summer, both sectors shift character entirely — open meadows, panoramic hiking trails, and protected habitats for local wildlife take over from the pistes. The warmer months bring hiking, mountain biking, family activities, and visits to a local fromagerie producing traditional Bauges mountain cheeses.

When should you visit?

The winter season (December through March or April) is the time for alpine and cross-country skiing plus snow-based activities — the resort is especially recommended for families and first-time skiers thanks to its gentle, beginner-friendly slopes. In summer (June to September), the Bauges region turns into a base for hiking and cycling, with sweeping views over the massif and the valleys around Chambéry and Annecy. Spring and autumn are quieter transitional periods, less crowded but still appealing for those who enjoy calmer trails.

Frequently asked questions

Is Aillon-Margériaz suitable for beginners and families? Yes. With a majority of blue and green runs and gentle, open slopes, the resort is particularly popular with families and people learning to ski.

How many runs and lifts does the resort have? The Margériaz 1400 sector offers 22 downhill runs across all difficulty levels and 10 lifts, including one chairlift. The full ski area covers about 36–40 km of pistes between 1,000 m and 1,900 m altitude.

What can you do besides downhill skiing? In winter: cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ski touring, sledging, and dog-sledding. In summer: hiking, mountain biking, and visits to the local fromagerie.

How far is Aillon-Margériaz from Chambéry or Annecy? About 30 minutes by car from Chambéry, and around 45 minutes from Aix-les-Bains or Annecy, making it one of the most easily reached ski resorts in Savoie.