Five must-see sites in Haute-Savoie

To visit Haute Savoie is to have a rendezvous with the most beautiful sites in the French Alps. Both from a natural and a historical point of view. We're not taking anything away from the other French Alpine regions, just remembering that here you can fall head over heels in wonder at Mont Blanc, stroll through Annecy, the Venice of the Alps, dive into the waters of two magnificent lakes, and explore a region that has always been a frontier zone, so rich in exchanges and historical facts.

Haute Savoie will delight you. AlpAddict offers you five must-see sites for your stay in Haute-Savoie.

Lake Annecy, a garden around the most photogenic of French Alpine lakes.

Lac d'Annecy is a true jewel of the Haute-Savoie region, a place where natural beauty and history meet to offer an unforgettable experience. Renowned as one of the purest lakes in Europe, visitors are enchanted by its crystal-clear waters in shades of blue and green, which change with the light of day. Surrounded by majestic mountains, including La Tournette and Le Semnoz, the lake is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a multitude of activities, from paddling and sailing to swimming on the beaches of Albigny or Talloires.

But Lake Annecy is also a plunge into Savoyard history and traditions. The town of Annecy, nicknamed the " Venice of the Alps". with its picturesque canals and narrow cobbled streets. The Château d'Annecy, perched on a hill overlooking the town, offers a breathtaking view of the lake. Not far away, the Palais de l'Isle, a former prison in the shape of a ship's prow, seems to float on the Thiou canal, a reminder of the town's rich medieval past.

One of the lake's charming anecdotes concerns the legend of the Lake Fairy, who is said to have protected the inhabitants from flooding by diverting the waters into underground caves. Nature lovers won't want to miss the 42-kilometer bike ride around the lake, which offers breathtaking panoramas, with must-see stops such as Menthon-Saint-Bernard, home to a medieval château still inhabited by the de Menthon family. This castle is said to have inspired Walt Disney to create his famous Sleeping Beauty castle!

Every year in August, the lake lights up during the Fête du Lac, a spectacular fireworks display that attracts thousands of spectators. In winter, the lake takes on a whole new look, often shrouded in a light mist that adds a touch of mystery to the surrounding mountains. It's also the perfect time to enjoy a tartiflette or Savoyard fondue in one of the traditional restaurants, accompanied by a glass of Savoy white wine.

Lake Annecy is not just a place to relax, but a destination that invites exploration, where every nook and cranny holds a new surprise, whether it's a picturesque village, a mountain hike or a simple stroll along the water's edge. It's a place where you come to recharge your batteries, admire nature and soak up the gentle, authentic atmosphere of Haute-Savoie. A visit to Lac d'Annecy is guaranteed to leave you with indelible memories, and an irrepressible desire to return again and again.

Colors of Lake Annecy — Banks of Lake Annecy

The gorges du Fier, wild and mysterious in Haute-Savoie

The Gorges du Fier, just a few kilometers from Annecy, are one of Haute-Savoie's natural treasures, a place where water and rock have sculpted a landscape that is both spectacular and mysterious. Imagine a narrow canyon where the River Fier, after millennia of patience, has carved its way between vertiginous walls, some 70 metres high. Walking along the footbridge suspended above the river, you feel like an explorer in a hidden world, where every turn reveals new wonders. The rock faces, eroded by time, take on strange and fascinating shapes, and the roar of the water below adds a dramatic dimension to the visit.

Here you can observe fascinating geomorphic curiosities, formed over thousands of years by the erosive power of the River Fier. These gorges, which extend for around 300 metres, are a spectacular example of what nature can sculpt when water and rock are in constant interaction. At the end of the gorge, you'll be able to admire some magnificent giant potholes.

Inside the gorges, you'll find the most astonishing antropomorphic shapes, such as human faces and profiles, which make the atmosphere even more mysterious. It's almost as if these caves are haunted by supernatural presences.

This exceptional natural site is accessible to all, and a walk along the footbridge is an immersive experience that brings you closer to the forces of nature.

Around the Gorges du Fier, other treasures await curious visitors. Just a short drive away, the Château de Montrottier stands proudly, a magnificent example of Savoyard medieval architecture. Seemingly straight out of a fairy tale, the château houses an eclectic collection of antiques, from weapons to porcelain and period furniture. A visit to its rooms and gardens is a plunge into history, with spectacular views over the surrounding countryside.

Yvoire and its castle on Lake Geneva

Yvoire, nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, is a veritable medieval gem, a village that seems frozen in time, where every street corner exudes history and beauty. Listed as one of France's most beautiful villages, Yvoire immediately charms with its enchanting atmosphere, ivy and flower-covered stone houses, and idyllic lakeside setting with the Alps as a backdrop. Founded over 700 years ago, this fortified village played an important strategic role in the Middle Ages, particularly during the reign of Count Amédée V of Savoie, who reinforced its defenses to protect the region. The castle of Yvoire, with its imposing silhouette, still bears witness to this era, proudly dominating the village with its crenellated towers.

Strolling through the cobbled streets of Yvoire is like stepping back in time. Every house, every architectural detail tells a story. Carved wooden balconies, ancient fountains and massive oak doors all bear witness to the village's rich heritage. The narrow streets often lead to shady squares where it's a pleasure to stop and enjoy a coffee on the terrace, while admiring the flower-filled facades that have earned Yvoire the title of "Village Fleuri" and even "Best Flowered Village in Europe". Either way, it's one of the most beautiful villages in Haute-Savoie! The scent of roses, lavender and jasmine mingles with the fresh lake air, creating a soft, romantic atmosphere.

The Garden of the Five Senses, located in the heart of the village, is another marvel not to be missed. Inspired by medieval labyrinths, this garden is a place of serenity where every sense is catered for. Stroll along paths lined with aromatic plants, fruit bushes and bright flowers, discovering areas dedicated to smell, touch, sight, taste and hearing. The garden is an enchantment for botanical enthusiasts and a peaceful oasis for visitors in search of tranquillity.

Yvoire is also a place where local crafts take pride of place. The many boutiques lining the narrow streets offer products typical of the region: pottery, handcrafted jewelry, scented soaps and Savoyard textiles. Artisan workshops invite you to discover ancestral skills, such as wood carving or stained glass making, which perpetuate tradition while adding a contemporary touch.

A visit to Yvoire would not be complete without a stroll along the shores of Lake Geneva. The shores of the village offer sublime panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Hire a boat for a jaunt on the water, or simply stroll along the quays, where swans glide gracefully on the blue waters. At lunchtime or dinnertime, settle into one of the village's restaurants to sample local specialties such as féra du Léman or Savoyard fondue, all accompanied by a glass of Savoyard wine.

Yvoire is much more than just a medieval village; it's a place where history, nature and the art of living combine to offer visitors an unforgettable experience. Whether you're looking for relaxation, culture or beauty, Yvoire welcomes you with its timeless charm and gentle way of life, promising moments of pure magic on the shores of Lake Geneva.

The Cachat spring, where it all began for Evian-les-Bains

The Cachat spring, nestled in the heart ofÉvian-les-Bains, is much more than just a watering hole: it's the birthplace of an adventure that has made Évian a global destination for health and well-being. It was here, at this modest spring, that it all began for this small town on the shores of Lake Geneva, which was to become synonymous with elegance and spa treatments. Discovered in 1790 by Count Jean-Charles de Laizer, a nobleman from Auvergne, the spring was known as " Fontaine Sainte Catherine". By drinking the water, the Count, suffering from kidney problems, was said to have experienced a spectacular improvement in his health, a miracle attributed to the beneficial properties of this pure water. Word spread quickly, and the fountain soon became the center of a craze for this healing water.

The spring was bought by Gabriel Cachat, a local landowner, in 1807, who gave it his name and made it the starting point for Evian's spa boom. Today, the Cachat spring, with its Art Nouveau-style pavilion, is a place of pilgrimage for visitors curious to discover this historic site. The elegant pavilion, built in 1903 by architect Jean-Albert Hébrard, protects the spring while offering a refined, timeless atmosphere. To this day, passers-by can fill their bottles directly from the spring, savoring the freshness of this legendary water, whose purity has remained unchanged for over two centuries.

A stroll around the Cachat spring plunges you into the fascinating history of Évian-les-Bains, which grew up around this miraculous water. The thermal baths, luxury hotels and promenades lining Lake Geneva are all testament to the golden age of this town, which attracted Europe's elite in search of spa treatments and well-being. Among these prestigious visitors were kings, artists and writers, all seduced by the benefits of Evian water. The labels on bottled water sold around the world recall the origin of this unique water: the Cachat spring, a symbol of purity and well-being.

The spring is also the starting point for a historical tour of the town's landmarks, including the Antoine Riboud theater, the old thermal baths and the Hôtel Royal, which dominates the town with its majestic Belle Époque architecture.

Beyond its history, the Cachat spring embodies the very essence of Évian-les-Bains: a destination where nature, history and well-being come together to offer a unique experience. When you stop off at this spring, you're not just quenching your thirst; you're connecting with an age-old tradition that has made Évian a household name the world over. It's a little detour that invites you to discover the starting point of a legend, where a single drop of water has transformed an entire town and left an indelible mark on the history of thermalism and well-being.

The Mont Blanc massif, the treasure of Haute Savoie

The Mont Blanc massifThe Mont Blanc massif, a veritable treasure of the Haute-Savoie region, is a natural majesty that has been attracting attention and arousing wonder for centuries. Dominating the Alps at an altitude of 4,810 metres, Mont Blanc is the highest peak in Western Europe, a giant of ice and rock that seems to reach for the sky. Its imposing silhouette, often crowned by eternal snow, offers a grandiose spectacle visible from numerous vantage points, each revealing a different facet of this legendary mountain.

One of the most spectacular vantage points is undoubtedly theAiguille du Midi, accessible from Chamonix by a vertiginous cable car. At an altitude of over 3,800 metres, the panoramic terrace offers breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks. On a clear day, you can even glimpse the mountains of Switzerland and Italy, your gaze lost in the immensity of the Alps. The "Pas dans le Vide", a glass platform suspended above the void, allows the most courageous to feel the adrenalin while admiring the wild beauty of the massif.

ChamonixChamonix, the mountaineering capital of the world, is the emblematic village at the foot of Mont Blanc. This elegant resort, which hosted the first Winter Olympics in 1924, harmoniously blends tradition and modernity. Its lively lanes and mountain boutiques create a warm, authentic atmosphere. In winter, Chamonix becomes a skier's paradise, while in summer it becomes the starting point for numerous hikes, including the emblematic Tour du Mont Blanc, a 170-kilometer itinerary that circles the massif via France, Italy and Switzerland.

A few kilometers away, the village of Les Houches offers another spectacular panorama of the Mont Blanc massif. Quieter and more family-friendly than Chamonix, this village is ideal for those seeking tranquillity while remaining close to the peaks. Les Houches is also known for its varied ski slopes and hiking trails that wind through fir forests, offering splendid views of the massif's glaciers.

Continuing eastwards, we arrive in Argentière, a charming Alpine village nestled in the Chamonix valley. Argentière is famous for its Grands Montets ski area, which attracts skiers and snowboarders from all over the world in search of thrills on its steep slopes and vast snowfields. The village, with its picturesque church and traditional chalets, offers an idyllic setting in which to recharge your batteries after a day spent at altitude.

Finally, continuing towards the Swiss border, we discover Vallorcine, the last commune before Switzerland, a haven of peace surrounded by majestic mountains. Vallorcine, which means "valley of the bears" after the bears that once populated the region, has preserved its authenticity and rustic charm. The village is the ideal starting point for exploring the wilderness trails leading to the mountain passes and lakes, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif and surrounding peaks.

Further south, the Val Montjoie, nestled between Saint-Gervais-les-Bains and Les Contamines-Montjoie, is an unspoilt natural setting at the foot of the Mont Blanc massif, a place where Savoyard authenticity blends with the majesty of the Alps. This verdant valley, crossed by the Bon Nant torrent, is a real invitation to discover, offering breathtaking scenery and a soothing atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the big ski resorts.

Start your exploration in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, an elegant spa known for its healing waters since the early 19th century. Nestled on a mountainside, Saint-Gervais is an ideal gateway to the Val Montjoie, offering breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, which seems to watch over the village. Stroll through streets lined with traditional chalets and elegant Belle Époque buildings, where the history of the Alpine resort is told around every corner. The thermal baths, with their mineral-rich waters, are an essential place to relax after a day's hiking or skiing. Saint-Gervais is also the departure point for the Tramway du Mont-Blanc, one of France's last cogwheel trains, which climbs to the Nid d'Aigle at 2,372 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif.

As you head up the valley, the charming village of Saint-Nicolas-de-Véroce comes into view, a haven of peace where time seems to stand still. This authentic hamlet is a jewel of Savoyard architecture, with its magnificently ornate Baroque church and traditional farmhouses. The views of Mont Blanc from Saint-Nicolas-de-Véroce are simply sublime, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the snow-capped peaks turn pink and orange. It's also an ideal starting point for hikes to flower-filled mountain pastures and quieter trails, far from the crowds.

Continuing upstream, you'll reach Les Contamines-Montjoie, a village nestled at the end of the valley, surrounded by majestic peaks and deep forests. Les Contamines is a popular destination for nature lovers, offering an exceptional setting for hiking, skiing and outdoor activities. The village has preserved its authenticity with wooden chalets and mountain traditions, while offering modern facilities for visitors. Be sure to visit the Church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge, a Baroque gem nestled in an idyllic setting, which marks the start of one of the region's most beautiful hiking trails.

Beyond the village begins a veritable hiker's paradise, with trails winding through alpine meadows, high-altitude lakes and glaciers. The Col du Bonhomme, on the mythical Tour du Mont Blanc, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, while Lac de la Girotte, with its turquoise waters, is the perfect spot for a picnic in the heart of nature.

The Mont Blanc massif, with its striking beauty and enchanting villages, is much more than a tourist destination: it's a place where nature shows itself in all its grandeur, where every peak and every valley tells a story of conquest, dreams and respect for the immutable forces of the mountains.

To discover Haute-Savoie is to plunge into a world where nature and culture meet to offer a unique and unforgettable experience. From the majestic peaks of Mont Blanc to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy, every corner of this region exudes beauty and authenticity. Whether you're passionate about outdoor sports, curious about history or simply looking to relax, Haute-Savoie has something for everyone. Charming villages such as Yvoire and Chamonix welcome you with their rich heritage and warm atmosphere, while the grandiose landscapes of the Fier gorges or the Val Montjoie will leave you with lasting memories. In Haute-Savoie, each season has its own charm: winter beckons you down snow-covered slopes, while summer is the ideal time for hikes through flower-filled meadows and high altitude lakes. The local gastronomy, with its tasty cheeses and mountain specialities, will delight your taste buds and add a gourmet touch to your stay. It's a region where people come to recharge their batteries, reconnect with nature and discover a simple, authentic way of life. When you visit Haute-Savoie, you'll discover a land of contrasts and wonders, where every moment is an invitation to marvel.