Samoëns, Grand Massif

With the recent arrival of Club Med Samoëns has been transformed from a charming, if sleepy corner of the Grand Massif ski area to one of the Alps' go to destinations.

Just an hour from Geneva airport, yet this resort gives you access to high-altitude skiing with over 250km of mostly tree-lined pistes. A great variety of slopes mean that all levels are catered for. The village still oozes Alpine charm, with a gondola link whisking you directly to the main ski area that starts from 1600m. Links to Flaine, Morillon and Les Carroz mean there's always somewhere new to explore.

The village even has the honour of being an official historical monument. Away from the slopes, if you're looking for clubs and pubs, this isn't the place. Instead, you'll find plenty of restaurants serving excellent local dishes.

Overall, Samoëns is a good little spot to know about: the skiing is great, challenging and varied. Very unusually for a resort of this size, Geneva's just an hour or so away and facilities for kids are excellent.