In Haute-Savoie, the concept of a “pedestrian” (or “ski-in ski-out”) resort was born from a desire to protect the silence of the mountain.
Here are the gems where you can forget your driver’s license and car keys for a week.
The Top 3 “Zero Car” Resorts
1. Avoriaz 1800: the fairy tale without asphalt
It’s the absolute reference. Here, the streets are ski slopes and sidewalks do not exist.
- The concept : Cars are left in parking lots at the entrance or you arrive by the Prodains cable car. Then everything is done on skis or by horse-drawn sledges.
- Why we love it : For the total silence at night and the unique feeling of leaving your bakery with skis on your feet.
- Eco-friendly access : Train to Thonon-les-Bains or Cluses, then shuttle bus to the cable car.
Did you know? In Avoriaz, the horse-drawn sledges are not just for tourists: they serve as official “taxis” for your luggage upon arrival. It’s the only place in France where your Uber has four hooves!
2. Flaine: art and skiing in “Bauhaus” mode
Flaine is a resort listed as a “Historic Monument” for its bold architecture (you either love it or you don’t, everyone has their own taste!). Its center is entirely pedestrian-only.
- The concept : The resort is built on several levels connected by free exterior inclined elevators, open 24/7.
- Why we love it : For its “open-air museum” vibe (works by Picasso and Dubuffet on the slopes) and its exemplary ecological management.
- Eco-friendly access : Direct train to Cluses station, then 30 minutes by bus.
3. Chamonix & the Valley: the train as shuttle
While Chamonix town allows cars, it’s the queen resort for train travel thanks to the Mont-Blanc Express.
- The concept : This small red train runs from Saint-Gervais to Switzerland. With your guest card (provided by your host), it is free between Servoz and Vallorcine.
- Why we love it : You can stay in a quiet village like Les Houches and ski in Argentière by train, admiring the glaciers through the window.
- Eco-friendly access : Direct train arrival at Chamonix or Saint-Gervais (Le Fayet) station.
The “Soft Mobility” Comparison
| Resort | Local transport mode | Nearest train station access |
| Avoriaz | Sledges, skis, walking | Cluses or Thonon (Bus 45 min) |
| Flaine | Inclined elevators, shuttles | Cluses (Bus 30 min) |
| Chamonix | Valley train, electric buses | Chamonix Centre (SNCF station) |
| Samoëns 1600 | Village to resort gondola | Cluses (Bus 20 min) |
By choosing one of these options, you reduce your carbon footprint by nearly 80% compared to a classic car stay.
