Flaine — France

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Flaine was meticulously designed in the 1960’s by architect Marcel Breuer, a master of the Bauhaus style, during the wave that spawned many high-altitude utilitarian ski resorts. The artistic theme goes beyond the architecture, with several art works at the base of the slopes, including a Picasso. The name ‘Flaine’ (Flen) comes from the French ‘Flainoz’ meaning ‘pillow’ as this glacial bowl is rumoured to have been where the giant of the Giffre Valley laid his head! Flaine is nowadays the jewel in the crown of the Grand Massif ski area and it has links to 4 other villages at lower levels via wonderful long tree-lined runs - a nice contrast to the bleak landscape higher up.

Like most purpose-built ski resorts, après ski is on hand-but not a highlight and for non-skiers the options are quite limited. Access is easy as the Grand Massif is one of the closest ski areas to Geneva Airport, with a transfer taking just an hour.