Haute-Savoie, an emblematic land of high Alpine peaks and prestigious ski resorts, is a real gem for nature and winter sports enthusiasts. Culminating at 4,810 meters with Mont Blanc, this département is the scene of world mountaineering, with Chamonix at the top of the bill. Mythical sites such as the Aiguille du Midi and the Mer de Glace make it a must-see destination for high-mountain enthusiasts. The posh resorts of Megève and Morzine rub shoulders with the more sporty La Clusaz and Les Contamines-Montjoie, offering a diversity of experiences to suit all tastes.
In this article, discover our top 16 must-sees in Haute-Savoie.
1. Évian-les-Bains, a renowned spa resort
Located on the enchanting shores of Lake Geneva, Évian-les-Bains is a destination that harmoniously blends history, well-being and nature. Its history dates back to the dawn of the French Revolution, in 1789, when a visiting marquis from Auvergne discovered the therapeutic virtues of the water in a local fountain. Suffering from kidney and liver ailments, he noticed a significant improvement in his health. The fountain, located on Mr. Cachat's property, quickly gained notoriety, propelling Évian onto the world stage. Today, Évian-les-Bains is not only a popular seaside resort for its beaches and crystal-clear waters, but also a renowned spa resort.
Read more: What to do and see in Évian-les-Bains The 8 must-sees
2. What to do in Haute-Savoie Enjoy the fresh air in Thonon-les-Bains
Located in the heart of the Savoyard Chablais region and close to the Swiss border, Thonon-les-Bains is a charming and dynamic town. We were seduced by its pretty port, its promenade along the shores of Lake Geneva and its lively pedestrianized town center. Built on three successive terraces, Thonon-les-Bains opens majestically onto the lake, offering a breath of fresh air and a breathtaking view. Its privileged location between Lake Geneva and the mountains, as well as its proximity to Switzerland, make it a must for holidaymakers passing through Haute-Savoie.
Read more : What to do and see in Thonon-les-Bains? The 9 must-sees
3. Chamonix, a paradise for skiers and mountaineers
Situated at over 1,000 m altitude, on the border with Switzerland and Italy, Chamonix shares with these countries the immense Mont-Blanc ski area. This high-mountain municipality is very popular with mountaineers and is also the headquarters of mountain guides. In summer, the area attracts hikers and tourists, while in winter, it becomes a meeting place for skiers. Don't miss a visit to the Mer de Glace, France's largest glacier , which is retreating every year due to global warming, and to Lac Blanc. Another must-do activity is the Aiguille du Midi, the highest of Chamonix's Aiguilles peaking at 3,842 metres. Climbing it is a once -in-a-lifetime experience.
Good to know: Every year at the end of August, Chamonix plays host to The North Face Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, the world's leading trail running event , attracting the best runners from all over the world.
4. What to do in Haute-Savoie Visit Yvoire, "the pearl of Lake Geneva"
Built on a rocky spur overlooking the lake, at the junction of the "small" and "large" lakes, Yvoire is an elegant fortified village, worthy of a real lakeside postcard. The village is very popular with tourists in the high season, so we recommend that you visit Yvoire in the off-season. You'll be able to stroll alone among the old stones, see the boats moored in the harbor and enjoy the restaurants that tell the story of this charming village. Enter the village through the Porte de Rovorée, then wander through the streets lined with narrow-fronted houses decorated with flowers. The church's gleaming bulbous steeple first catches the eye. Next, you'll discover the 14th-century château overlooking the lake, where you can descend to experience the infinite peace that reigns here (out of season, of course!). A stopover rich in history not to be missed.
5. Annecy, the Venice of the Alps, with its canals, history and monuments
The capital of Haute-Savoie, Annecy elegantly combines mountain charm and seaside attractions. This small town, set north of a lake with crystal-clear waters reflecting the Alps, is a chic and delightful destination. Annecy has been awarded the Ville d'Art et d'Histoire (City of Art and History) label, and boasts a picturesque medieval center with canals and bridges. A must-see is the Palais de l'Île, a 12th-century fortified house that stands like a prow on an islet of the Thiou, which crosses the town in two charming arms: the Port and the Canal du Vassé. The town also abounds in fine restaurants and pleasant terraces. So, would you prefer a fish fry or a Savoyard fondue? A pedal-boat ride on the lake or a dip in its waters? Annecy never ceases to seduce with its many attractions.
Read more: Weekend in Annecy: what to visit in 2 or 3 days?
6. Megève, one of France's most popular ski resorts
At the junction of the Val d'Arly and the Sallanches basin, Megève is a mountain village with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, and one of France's most popular ski resorts. Take time to stroll through the old Megève, a 14th-century farming village with cobbled streets that has retained its charm around its Saint-Jean-Baptiste church and authentic central square. Megève is particularly enjoyable in winter, with the Évasion Mont-Blanc ski area and its 400 km of pistes. The Mont-d'Arbois and Rochebrune ski areas offer a wide range of mountain activities, including snow golf, polo, field hockey and dog sledding. In summer, the area is just as pleasant, with numerous hiking trails, mountain and white-water activities, golf and outdoor pursuits. The resort has even been awarded the Famille Plus label!
Read more: Where to go on vacation in the mountains? Top destinations
7. Combloux, one of the most beautiful mountain villages in the Alps
A veritable balcony facing Mont Blanc, Combloux is one of the most beautiful mountain villages in the Alps. Its ski area stretches from the Portes du Mont-Blanc to the Haute Vallée d'Arly, and is linked to the Évasion Mont-Blanc ski area. Thanks to the lifts in these two areas, you can enjoy over 450 km of slopes for skiing and other winter sports, as well as mountain biking and hiking trails in summer. The panorama of the Mont-Blanc and Aravis massifs is exceptional! Located close to Megève, Combloux offers a friendly, sporty alternative at reasonable prices, ideal for families.
Good to know: Combloux is one of the Top 16 ski resorts with the Flocon vert label. The village is adapting to the climate by developing activities to support local initiativesand promote ecogestures, soft mobility, building renovation and energy savings. Combloux is also one of the best resorts for people with reduced mobility.
8. Argentière and its impressive glacier
Argentière is particularly famous for its impressive glacier, the Aiguille Verte summit and the Grands-Montets ski area. The charm of this hamlet, with its traditional farmhouses, wash houses, Baroque church, 19th-century chapel and breathtaking panorama, makes it a very pleasant holiday destination. Situated close to the start of numerous hikes, including the Tour du Mont-Blanc in summer, Argentière is an essential stopping point on the way to the Emosson dam, via the Col des Montets, and to the Swiss border on the way to Valais. The Argentière station is also a stopover for the Mont-Blanc Express train.
Read more: What to do and see in Savoie The 15 most beautiful places
9. What to do in Haute-Savoie Going to Saint-Gervais-Les-Bains
Saint-Gervais is more than just a town; it's made up of four villages: Le Fayet (580 m), Le Bettex (1,400 m), Saint-Gervais (810 m), Saint-Nicolas-de-Véroce (1,170 m), as well as numerous hamlets. These places are linked by an extraordinary heritage, sublime landscapes and preserved flora and fauna. During your stay in Saint-Gervais, you can combine the benefits of balneotherapy with mountain, skiing and mountaineering activities. The therapeutic virtues of Le Fayet spring water have been recognized for over two centuries in dermatology, rheumatology and respiratory tract treatment. Saint-Gervais is also a ski resort, with slopes linked to Megève and Saint-Nicolas-de-Véroce. In summer, numerous hiking and mountain biking trails are available for all levels.
Read more: Where to ski for less? 15 resort ideas
10. Talloires-Montmin, ideal for water sports and scenic walks
Talloires is one of the most elegant villages on the shores of Lake Annecy. Its religious heritage, including the Benedictine abbey transformed into a hotel and the Talloires priory, bears witness to a prestigious past. Today, the magnificent views from the bay make it an ideal place for water sports and panoramic walks. It's a peaceful spot that attracts a clientele in search of refined relaxation and quality gastronomy. Just beyond the Col de la Forclaz, famous for its breathtaking views over the lake and departure point for paragliders from all over the world, lies Montmin, a charming hilltop village that seems isolated in the mountains.
Read more: Top 11 hikes in Savoie
11. What to do in Haute-Savoie Visit Le Grand-Bornand, the "cradle of Reblochon"
Surrounded by forest, with the Aravis and Bargy mountain ranges in the background, Le Grand-Bornand is a pleasant village of stone and wood. With its rich, unspoilt natural heritage, you'll find authentic, centuries-old chalets clustered around the church and its bulbous bell tower, or scattered across the surrounding slopes. A stay in Le Grand-Bornand is guaranteed to be an unforgettable ski holiday! In terms of heritage, Grand-Bornand is the "cradle of Reblochon", thanks to the large herd of Abondance cheeses, the famous Pie-Rouge, which thrive on its mountain pastures. Good tasting in prospect...
Read more: 10 mountain destinations for summer in the fresh air
12. La Clusaz, one of Haute-Savoie's friendliest village resorts
Today, La Clusaz is one of Haute-Savoie's friendliest village resorts. It has retained its charm, preserving the beauty of its century-old chalets and the Savoyard style at the heart of the village. Situated in the Aravis mountains, this charming village has become, in the space of a century, one of Annéciens' most popular ski resorts, just 30 minutes from Lake Annecy. Its name derives from its particular geographical situation: a cluse, or defile, squeezed between two mountains.
Read more: Where to go this winter in France? Top destinations
13. What to do in Haute-Savoie Skiing in Morzine
A family resort, Morzine-Avoriaz has much more to offer than meets the eye. In Morzine, you can enjoya peaceful resort in a charming village with breathtaking views over the valley, while having access to one of the largest ski areas in the Alps. The Portes du Soleil, the very first Franco-Swiss ski area, is today a unique playground, offering access to 12 resorts and over 600 km of pistes. Put on your skis and let us guide you to discover Morzine-Avoriaz and its must-do activities by reading our article What to do in Morzine-Avoriaz in winter? Top 11 must-do activities.
14. Flaine, one of France's best ski resorts for children
The resort of Flaine is one of a kind. Several residences were designed by the renowned architect Marcel Breuer, and works by artists such as Picasso can be admired here. Flaine offers a full range of activities typical of a mountain resort. Children particularly appreciate the dedicated exercise areas, as well as sledging, quad biking and dog sledding. The resort also has an aquatic area for swimming and fun, a driving simulator that will delight teenagers, and a City Game, a fun way to discover Flaine in the form of a treasure hunt.
Read more top 15 family ski resorts where to ski with children
15. Les Contamines-Montjoie, the mountain as seen in magazines
Les Contamines-Montjoie epitomizes the mountain as it's imagined in magazines. In the foreground, an authentic village with Baroque churches, while in the background, the Mont-Blanc massif and the Dômes de Miage sublimate the landscape. In winter, abundant snow covers the valley floor, where the clouds let the flakes fall for longer. In summer, flowers, shades of green and the white of snow-capped peaks create a magnificent tableau. Situated at an altitude of 1,164 metres, it's the ideal place for families, children and mountain lovers in every season. On the program: walks, sports and heritage in an area of incredible beauty.
Read more: What to do and see in the Alps The 15 most beautiful places
16. Samoëns, an authentic mountain village
Samoëns is a charming Haute-Savoie village that transforms into a lively ski resort in the heart of the Alps during the winter months. Part of the Grand Massif ski area, the resort offers a multitude of slopes to suit all levels. Samoëns embodies the ideal image of an authentic mountain village, preserving its Alpine character with traditional architecture, chalets, old stone buildings, fountains and sundials, while specializing in winter sports. Samoëns is also a land of craftsmen and stone masons. Whether you're a fan of skiing or relaxing at the spa, you're sure to find what you're looking for in our article What to do in Samoëns in winter? Top 11 must-do activities.
Good to know: Although situated at an altitude of 720 metres on the Giffre plain, a tributary of the Arve, it takes just 8 minutes on the Grand Massif Express to reach the Grand Massif ski area.
17. What to do in Haute-Savoie Discover Châtel, a friendly Savoyard village
Close to the Swiss border, Châtel is a high-altitude Savoyard village and a popular family resort in both summer and winter. It has preserved its Savoyard identity, mountain traditions and wooden chalets with carved balconies. Here, you'll find the pleasure ofa warm, friendly, human-scale resort, while enjoying a wide range of activities. In summer, cows graze in the mountain pastures, providing the milk needed to make Abondance cheese, an A.O.C. from the Chablais region. The resort is linked to the Portes du Soleil ski area via Super Châtel, promising great days out in the mountains. Among the must-do activities on site, the Bike Park offers a mountain area specially dedicated to downhill mountain biking for cycling enthusiasts.
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