Patrick 
Facing the Mont-Blanc massif, this high-altitude lake offers one of the most spectacular panoramas of the French Alps. But its booming success now attracts thousands of visitors every summer and raises many concerns among mountain professionals. For a long time, this hike was seen as a reward for the most motivated walkers. You had to … Learn more
For this weekend of June 27 and 28, 2026, 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 Samoëns American Festival 2026 From June 25 to 28, 2026, the town of Samoëns transforms to host the emblematic Samoëns American Festival, an … Learn more
Every summer, it’s the same story. The most beautiful shelters of Haute-Savoie are fully booked from spring, and some hikers already think they will have to give up their plans for August. Yet, the reality is more nuanced. With a bit of flexibility and some tips, it is still possible to sleep in the mountains … Learn more
Just a few kilometers from the most famous resorts of the Alps, a village in Haute-Savoie quietly cultivates another idea of the mountain. Here, there are no luxury shops on every corner or dense crowds on the terraces. Yet, those who discover it often return year after year. A mountain that has kept its soul … Learn more
With the heatwave currently affecting much of France, many mountain lovers ask themselves the same question: is it still reasonable to go hiking when the thermometer exceeds 35°C? Guides, mountain leaders, and rescuers remind that hiking remains possible, but only on the condition of seriously adapting one’s habits. The mountains are often seen as a … Learn more
Every summer, thousands of hikers return to the trails of Haute-Savoie. But with the return of herds to the alpine pastures, encounters with patous and shepherds become more frequent. A few simple gestures can, however, prevent most delicate situations and allow you to fully enjoy the mountains. Why herds are everywhere in the mountains in … Learn more
While the thermometer exceeds 35 °C in the Rhône valley, the same reflex seems to be taking hold of many inhabitants of the Lyon region: hitting the road towards the mountains. Less than two hours from Lyon, a spectacular natural site attracts every summer those looking for some freshness. And these past few days, its … Learn more
With the heatwave settling in, the temptation is great. After a hike under the sun, facing turquoise water that looks perfect, many dream of a refreshing dip in a mountain lake. However, this swim can be much more dangerous than it seems. The image is well known: a high-altitude lake with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by … Learn more
For the weekend of June 20 and 21, 2026, Haute-Savoie offers a program full of festivities, sporting events, and cultural activities, with the highlight of the weekend being the Music Festival. Here is a small selection of events and activities not to be missed: All weekend The Ultra-Trail® du Haut-Giffre – Samoëns From June 19 to … Learn more
Summer has only officially started a few days ago, but Haute-Savoie is already experiencing its first major heat wave of the year. Météo-France has placed the department under orange heatwave alert starting Thursday, June 18 at noon. Temperatures could locally reach 34 to 36°C in the plains, while the heat will also spread to the … Learn more
From June 19 to 21, 2026, Samoëns will host the 13th edition of the Ultra-Trail® du Haut-Giffre (UTHG), one of the major summer trail events in Haute-Savoie. Each year, nearly 2,000 runners come to take on the challenge on the spectacular trails of Haut-Giffre, between Samoëns, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, the alpine pastures, and the iconic peaks of … Learn more
July arrives, and with it queues, full parking lots, and terraces taken by storm. But in June, this month suspended between spring and summer, Haute-Savoie still belongs to us. The landscapes are at the height of their beauty, the waterfalls swollen by melting snow, the villages breathe. This is the moment to go. In summary … Learn more
On Sunday, June 21, 2026, Annecy will transform into a vast open-air stage to celebrate the Fête de la Musique. Free concerts, musical strolls, choirs, electro, rock, jazz, reggae, and world dances: the city and its neighborhoods will offer dozens of events throughout the day and into the night. Here is everything you need to … Learn more
For the weekend of June 13 and 14, 2026, 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 Le Bélier VTT – La Clusaz June 13 and 14, 2026, La Clusaz will host a new edition of Bélier … Learn more
Spectacular mountain films, open-air screenings, meetings with adventurers, and debates about the alpine world… The Chamonix Film Festival will make its grand return from June 10 to 14, 2026, for a 6th edition already announced as one of the cultural highlights of the year in the Chamonix valley. The unmissable event of mountain cinema For … Learn more
Thousands of mountain bikers, magnificent landscapes, legendary descents, and a friendly atmosphere in the heart of the Alps… The Pass’Portes du Soleil will make their grand return from June 26 to 28, 2026 in the Portes du Soleil. An unmissable event for mountain biking and mountain enthusiasts. The largest mountain biking event in the Alps … Learn more
The Abbey of Abondance is about to come alive to the rhythm of classical music with the return of the festival “Du Vent dans l’Abbaye”, organized by the association La Bise des Vents. After a remarkable first edition, this cultural event returns with a new program combining heritage, chamber music, and immersive experiences in the … Learn more
Les Gets is once again getting ready to become the world capital of mountain biking. From August 20 to 23, 2026, the Haute-Savoie resort will host another round of the UCI Mountain Bike World Series, a must-see event for downhill and cross-country enthusiasts. For four days, the best riders on the planet will meet on … Learn more
Summer in Haute-Savoie is an explosion of life. Between festivals, sporting events, markets, concerts, and outdoor activities, each week offers its share of highlights. From June to September, the region becomes a vast playground between lake and mountain. Here are the must-see events of summer 2026, listed month by month to help you organize your … Learn more
When temperatures soar in the city, some places become true natural refuges. In Haute-Savoie, the cascade d’Ardent is precisely one of these spectacular spots where people come to seek a bit of coolness in the heart of the mountains. Located near Morzine, this impressive waterfall attracts nature lovers, hikers, and alpine landscape enthusiasts every summer. … Learn more
Last updated: 05/12/2026 The season of flea markets and garage sales is in full swing in our department, as everywhere in France. Here is an overview of garage sales, flea markets, wardrobe sales, and fairs organized in the month of June 2026 in Haute-Savoie. Event calendar for June 2026 Saturday, June 6 Sunday, June 7 … Learn more
While many already imagine crowded beaches or major tourist resorts for the Pentecost weekend, a village in Haute-Savoie quietly attracts more and more visitors seeking fresh air, alpine landscapes, and a friendly atmosphere. Between still snow-covered mountains, lively terraces, powerful waterfalls, and a music festival in the heart of nature, this destination could well create … Learn more
Every autumn, Annecy completely changes its atmosphere for a day. The bells of the herds ring out through the cobbled lanes, animals cross the old town as visitors look on in amazement, and Savoyard traditions take over the historic centre once again. On Saturday, October 10, 2026, the much-anticipated Retour des Alpages will return to … Learn more
For two days, the Sommand plateau will immerse once again in the atmosphere of the Savoyard alpine pastures. On July 18 and 19, 2026, the traditional Alpage Festival of Praz de Lys Sommand promises a weekend blending mountain traditions, unusual activities, local crafts, and conviviality at the heart of the Haute-Savoie pastures. A major summer … Learn more
The favorite event for children, and often also for parents, will make its grand return to Haute-Savoie at the end of summer 2026. From Sunday, August 23 to Thursday, August 27, 2026, the Au Bonheur des Mômes festival will once again take over the streets and squares of Grand-Bornand with hundreds of shows, activities, and … Learn more
Imagine yourself, at dusk, perched at 1,763 meters altitude, breath taken away by the raw beauty of the Alps, while the notes of a piano rise into the pure air, blending with the distant song of the marmots and the rustling of the wind in the pines. This enchanting setting is offered by the Bostan … Learn more
June 13 and 14, 2026, La Clusaz will host a new edition of the Bélier VTT, an unmissable event for mountain MTB enthusiasts. For two days, the trails of the Aravis will resonate with the rhythm of wheels, between sporting challenges, accessible rides, and friendly activities in the heart of the village. Designed for all … Learn more
Each spring, it is one of the most authentic gatherings of the Haute-Savoie mountains. From the month of May, the herds leave the valleys to reach the high-altitude pastures, marking the beginning of the summer season in the mountains. Called “montées en alpage” or “enmontagnées”, these festive days attract many visitors each year who come … Learn more
With the return of the beautiful days, a small village on the shores of Lake Geneva sees its streets fill up with walkers from all over the region… and far beyond. Between flower-adorned houses, incredible lake views, and a nearly timeless atmosphere, this Haute-Savoie destination seems to have found the perfect recipe to charm visitors … Learn more
Nestled at 1,500 meters altitude, facing the majestic Mont Blanc, the Merlet animal park is once again welcoming visitors and nature lovers for a new season, from May 1st to September 30th, 2026. This site, renowned for its total immersion in alpine wildlife, promises an unforgettable experience for all who cross its gates. Reopening and … Learn more
For this long weekend from May 1st to 3rd, 2026, Haute-Savoie offers a program rich in festivities, sporting events, and cultural activities. Here is a small selection of events and activities not to be missed : All weekend Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc International Fair 2026 – La Roche sur Foron From May 1st to 10th, 2026, the Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc … Learn more
And yet, some places know exactly how to offer what one is looking for when the warm days arrive: pure air, bright landscapes, a true sweetness of life… and that rare feeling of having found a still preserved corner. Nestled in the heart of the Giffre valley, Samoëns is one of those villages that are … Learn more
Want to escape for a few days without going far? In May 2026, Annecy once again establishes itself as one of the best destinations for a long weekend. Between the turquoise lake, lush mountains, lively streets, and major spring events, the Venice of the Alps offers an ideal setting to enjoy the May holidays. With … Learn more
Last updated: 04/28/2026 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 clear-outs, and fairs organized in May 2026 in Haute-Savoie. Event calendar for May 2026 Friday, May 1st Saturday, May 2nd Sunday, May 3rd … Learn more
The presence of névés in the mountains represents a common challenge for hikers, especially in spring and early summer. These persistent snow accumulations, often found above 1,500 meters in altitude or on north-facing slopes, can present significant risks. Preparation and knowledge of good practices are essential to reduce dangers when crossing a névé. Definition and … Learn more
Imagine yourself, perched several meters above the ground, ready to launch onto a winding track that snakes between fir trees and overlooks alpine meadows… La Clusaz is innovating with its brand new 4-season sled, an exciting attraction that promises 820 meters of thrilling descent, reaching speeds of up to 42 km/h, and a breathtaking view … Learn more
For a long time, the Mer de Glace was one of those places you hear about everywhere. Spectacular photos, legendary glacier, must-see excursion… Through superlatives, we had almost convinced ourselves that the experience would be disappointing compared to reality. A site too touristy, too crowded, too famous to truly surprise. Then we went there. And … Learn more
In the heart of the Alps, the Pays du Mont-Blanc experienced a nuanced winter season, woven with contrasts but crowned with success. The villages nestled under the snow, the cable cars brushing the peaks, and the laughter of holidaymakers still resonate in the valleys. But behind this postcard lies a reality made of adaptations, passion, … Learn more
Does the idea of climbing 1,000 meters of elevation gain fill you with as much excitement as apprehension? Rest assured: there are precise tips to turn this vertical challenge into an exhilarating adventure, without ending up out of breath around the next bend. Here is a lively guide, enriched with personal experiences, to accompany you … Learn more
For the weekend of April 18 and 19, 2026, Haute-Savoie offers a program full of festivities, sporting events, and cultural activities. Here is a small selection of events and activities not to be missed : All weekend Annecy Marathon 2026 The Annecy International Lake Marathon returns for an epic 2026 edition on the weekend of April 18 … Learn more