Patrick 
Situated at the gates of Thonon-les-Bains, just steps from Lake Geneva, Ripaille Castle is one of the most emblematic historical monuments of Haute-Savoie. Former residence of the Dukes of Savoy, Carthusian monastery, then a residence transformed during the Belle Époque, Ripaille spans several centuries of history. Its estate, gardens, and vineyard make it an essential … Learn more
Parking lots full from dawn, degraded trails, proliferation of bivouacs and ecosystems under pressure: the summer success of Haute-Savoie is turning into a headache. To avoid tourist overload, several local authorities are taking action. Mandatory shuttles, traffic restrictions, bivouac quotas, and upcoming regulations on the Tour du Mont-Blanc: regulation is no longer a taboo, it … Learn more
In Sciez, a few kilometers from Thonon-les-Bains and the shores of Lake Léman, Les Aigles du Léman offer a spectacular immersion into the world of birds of prey. Spread over nearly 8 hectares of nature, the park hosts several hundred birds and combines discovery, free-flight shows, education, and species protection. An outing particularly suited for … Learn more
Since Saturday, August 8, 2026, thrill-seekers have a new playground in Haute-Savoie. The via ferrata of the Gorge du Cé has just opened in Mont-Saxonnex, featuring two routes, monkey bridges, dizzying footbridges, and even two large zip lines. A new via ferrata in Mont-Saxonnex It is a novelty that should quickly appeal to outdoor activity … Learn more
As the 2026-2027 winter season approaches, a significant change is underway in the short-term rental sector. Airbnb is set to profoundly modify its fee system, introducing a single 15.5% commission borne by owners. In Haute-Savoie, where accommodation rates can already reach high levels in the resorts, some travelers fear another price increase. But should we … Learn more
This is one of the iconic sporting events of the summer in Annecy. On Saturday, August 15, 2026, swimmers from many backgrounds will dive into the water for the 94th Crossing of Lake Annecy. Organized by Les Dauphins d’Annecy, this great open water swimming celebration is once again offering four distances: 1 km, 2.4 km, … Learn more
As successive heatwaves stifle metropolises and overheat the Mediterranean coast, a clear choice is made by holidaymakers: to abandon the burning concrete and seek a second breath at altitude. This summer again, the phenomenon of “coolcationing” (the search for cool holiday destinations) is booming, and Haute-Savoie is asserting itself as the most coveted sanctuary in … Learn more
Hiking and food enthusiasts are invited to Combloux on Sunday, September 13, 2026 for the 5th edition of the Rando des Gourmets. This friendly event offers a loop of approximately 11 kilometers, punctuated by gourmet stops where participants can taste local specialties while discovering the landscapes and heritage of one of the most beautiful villages … Learn more
They whistle, stand on their hind legs, and sometimes let themselves be approached very closely. Every summer, marmots are among the stars of the hiking trails in Haute-Savoie. However, offering them a piece of food, even a simple dandelion, is far from a harmless gesture. This reflex, often motivated by good intentions, can have real … Learn more
After an initial summer meeting in July, Le Champ des Platines will make its grand return on Saturday, September 5, 2026 in La Clusaz. For this 7th season, this unusual event invites the public to experience music in the heart of the mountains, on an alpine pasture transformed into a temporary dancefloor. On the program: … Learn more
The event is already surrounded by great anticipation among astronomy enthusiasts. On Wednesday, August 12, 2026, a particularly spectacular solar eclipse will be visible throughout Haute-Savoie. Even though the phenomenon will not be total in the department, more than 90% of the solar disk will be covered by the Moon, offering a unique atmosphere at … Learn more
On Sunday, September 13, 2026, La Clusaz will reconnect with one of its oldest traditions. The Foire de la Croix will mark the end of the alpine pasture season and the return of the herds to the village. Agricultural contests, parades, craft markets, and activities will punctuate this festive day that celebrates the rural heritage … Learn more
With its majestic reliefs, secret valleys, waterfalls, lakes, and deep forests, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes embodies like nowhere else the call of nature and the promise of varied landscapes. Walking the region’s trails means diving into an ecosystem of rare richness, where escape meets physical challenge. But this adventure also requires constant vigilance: safety above all. Hiking in … Learn more
Can a simple wooden ball captivate an entire family for nearly an hour? At Mont-Saxonnex, the answer is clearly yes. With “Roule ma Boule“, children run, laugh, and watch their marble roll down a giant course dotted with obstacles, while adults quickly get caught up in the game. An original, playful, and accessible activity that … Learn more
For this weekend of August 8 and 9, Haute-Savoie offers a rich program of festivities, sporting events, and cultural activities. Here is a small selection of events and activities not to be missed: All weekend Château Sonic Festival – Brenthonne The Château Sonic Festival is back to celebrate its 10th edition on August 7, 8 … Learn more
On August 15 and 16, 2026, Avoriaz will host the very first edition of Avoriaz Street Lines, a new event entirely dedicated to mountain biking. Designed as a spectacular and accessible festival for all, it will transform the pedestrian streets of the resort into a huge playground where competitions, freestyle demonstrations, and activities for the … Learn more
For this weekend of September 26 and 27, Haute-Savoie celebrates autumn in all its richness: between the great traditional fairs marking the return of the alpine herds, a literary festival by the lake, and a French paragliding championship, there is something for everyone. Here is a small selection of events and activities not to be … Learn more
On Saturday, August 8, 2026, Fillinges will once again vibrate to the rhythm of the Saint-Laurent Fair, an unmissable event that attracts several thousand visitors every summer. A true village festival, this event highlights the agricultural world, local producers, artisans, and Savoyard traditions in a friendly and family atmosphere. At the heart of the event, … Learn more
Away from the major tourist routes, an old farm in Haute-Savoie conceals a completely unexpected decor. Behind its walls, les Jardins Secrets de Vaulx unfold a maze of flowered patios, carved wooden galleries, fountains, and mosaics. A place shaped by a family for more than forty years, where the Savoyard countryside meets the palaces of … Learn more
Avoriaz is about to vibrate to the rhythm of dance with the return of the Avoriaz Dance Festival, which will celebrate its 16th edition from August 22 to 28, 2026. For one week, the Portes du Soleil resort will welcome thousands of enthusiasts from all over France and abroad to share their passion alongside international … Learn more
When encountering a herd in the mountains, all dogs seem to have the same role. However, there is a fundamental difference between protection dogs and herding dogs. The former live with the animals to defend them against predators, while the latter work alongside the shepherd to guide the herd. Knowing how to distinguish them helps … Learn more
It is an announcement that saddens many mountain lovers. The Merlet wildlife park, one of the most spectacular sites in the Chamonix valley, will close its doors entirely in 2027. An exceptional decision, made not for economic reasons, but to allow the site to regain its balance in the face of the effects of climate … Learn more
A fall, a fainting, hypothermia… In the mountains, rescue teams can take many minutes to arrive. To help hikers, trail runners, and mountaineers respond effectively, a group of experts has just made first aid sheets freely available, accessible even without a network. A simple reflex that could make all the difference. Every summer, thousands of … Learn more
Faced with ever-increasing attendance, the local authorities of the Pays du Mont-Blanc and the Chamonix Valley want to better regulate the Tour du Mont-Blanc (TMB). A code of conduct is currently being prepared and should come into effect from the summer season 2027. Its objective: to preserve the trails, limit the impacts on natural environments, … Learn more
Motor enthusiasts have a date in Morzine from August 28 to 30, 2026 for the 8th edition of the Motor Addict Léman Classic. For three days, the Portes du Soleil resort will transform into a true open-air automobile museum, gathering over 100 exceptional vehicles from before 1980, prestigious models and collector cars from across France … Learn more
Good news for hiking, mountain biking or road cycling enthusiasts: a new mobile application called “Lac Annecy Aravis Outdoor” has just been launched. Free of charge, it brings together hundreds of official routes around Lake Annecy, the Thônes valley, and the Aravis mountain range to support users before and during their outings. More than 280 … Learn more
Increasingly popular with hikers, filtered water bottles help reduce the weight of the backpack while limiting the purchase of plastic bottles. But these accessories do not make all waters drinkable and their effectiveness largely depends on how they are used. Here is everything you need to know before filling your bottle in a mountain stream … Learn more
On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, the Abbaye d’Aulps in Saint-Jean-d’Aulps is offering a new edition of L’Abbaye sous les étoiles, an event combining astronomy, heritage, and the discovery of the night sky. Between planetarium sessions and outdoor star gazing, this evening promises a unique experience for the whole family. In the exceptional setting of the … Learn more
For this weekend of August 1st and 2nd, Haute-Savoie offers a rich program of festivities, sporting events, and cultural activities. Here is a small selection of events and activities not to be missed: All weekend The Blue Grass Festival – La Roche sur Foron Bluegrass in La Roche celebrates its 20th edition from July 29 … Learn more
Each summer, the beaches of Lake Geneva attract thousands of swimmers looking to enjoy its waters and exceptional setting. However, after several episodes of heatwaves, storms, or localized pollution, one question frequently arises: is swimming still safe? The latest controls show a generally very reassuring situation, but some precautions remain essential before jumping into the … Learn more
The Lake Festival makes its grand return this Saturday, August 1, 2026 in Annecy. Tens of thousands of spectators are expected to attend the pyrotechnic show “The Soul of the World”. But in a context of marked drought and high fire risk, the City calls on everyone to exercise the utmost caution, especially on the … Learn more
On Saturday, August 1, 2026, Geneva will celebrate the Swiss National Day in a friendly and festive atmosphere. Less than an hour’s drive from Haute-Savoie, La Grange Park will host a full day of free activities combining Swiss traditions, concerts, shows, and family activities. A great outing idea to enjoy the national holiday of our … Learn more
Behind the flowered ramparts of Yvoire, one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, hides a place of surprising poetry. In the heart of the medieval town, the Garden of the Five Senses invites you to slow down and live an experience where scents, colors, and textures awaken all the senses. A timeless pause that … Learn more
Last update: 07/27/2026 The flea market and garage sale season is in full swing in our department, as everywhere in France. Here is an overview of the garage sales, flea markets, wardrobe clearances, and fairs organized in the month of August 2026 in Haute-Savoie. Event calendar for August 2026 Saturday, August 1 Sunday, August 2 … Learn more
With more than 100,000 French cross-border workers regularly crossing the border to work in Switzerland, the « Swiss salary, French housing » model continues to attract. However, between the rising cost of real estate in Haute-Savoie, transportation expenses, and new teleworking rules, the question deserves to be asked: is being a cross-border worker still as … Learn more
From Monday, August 24 to Sunday, August 30, 2026, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc will once again become the world capital of trail running on the occasion of the 23rd edition of the HOKA UTMB Mont-Blanc. For one week, more than 10,000 runners from all over the world will gather at the foot of Mont-Blanc to take part in … Learn more
From August 12 to 15, 2026, the Chamonix valley will come alive to the rhythm of the Fête des Guides, one of the most emblematic summer events in Haute-Savoie. Created over a century ago, this event pays tribute to the women and men who have shaped the history of mountaineering while offering numerous activities for … Learn more
At first glance, one might think of a lunar landscape or a scenery from Iceland. However, this vast limestone plateau is indeed located in Haute-Savoie, facing Mont Blanc. The Désert de Platé, classified as a natural reserve, is considered the largest lapiaz in Europe. A hike on this extraordinary site feels like walking on another … Learn more
With the heat and dryness persisting in Haute-Savoie, the risk of fire outbreaks remains high in many areas. The prefecture calls on residents, hikers, and holidaymakers to be extra vigilant and reminds them of the rules to follow to prevent any fire, especially in the mountains and near natural areas. Increased vigilance during the summer … Learn more
At more than 1,000 meters above sea level, facing the Mont-Blanc massif, lies a place still little known to the general public. In Passy, the Jardin des Cimes has just received the prestigious “Remarkable Garden” label, an award granted by the Ministry of Culture. Between artworks, gardens of the world, and an exceptional panorama, this … Learn more