Samoëns dates back to the 9th century and is the only ski station in France to be listed as an historic village. The stone masons who built the church and old houses around its beautiful main square were renowned throughout France. Dominating the village is a hillside botanical garden with 8000 species which became a famous example of innovative landscaping at the beginning of the last century.

Samoëns is the focal point of a valley rich in cultural tradition as well as natural wonders. Neighbouring Sixt, at the head of the valley is a French national site, with a 12th century abbey and vast natural reserves that include Europe's highest sheer limestone face on Tenneverge. This peak at Fer à Cheval forms part of a remarkable glacial circle with several waterfalls cascading from its high ledges.

Among nearby architectural treasures are the graceful monastic ensemble of the Chartreuse of Reposoir, founded near Cluses in the 12th century, the 12th-century Abbey of Abondance and the Chateau of Monthon-St-Bernard near Annecy, begun in the 13th century. Annecy, with its superb lake and fascinating old canals, is one of many memorable day-trips within an hour of Samoëns. Others include Geneva and the many famous resorts around its lake: the Edwardian spa town of Evian; the fortified medieval village of Yvoire with its donjon and charming Garden of the Five Senses; and Montreux with its neighbouring castle of Chillon, made immortal by Byron.

Chamonix, less than an hour from the house, is a breathtaking experience, not only for the grandeur of its mountain panorama but for the engineering feats that have made its glaciers and peaks accessible to anyone. Few will forget a visit to the Aiguille de Midi (3,800m) by cable car or to the ice cave of the Mer de Glace by rack railway.