To visit in Haute-Savoie

Autumn transforms alpine destinations into true living paintings. The mountains are adorned with blazing autumn colors, the climate becomes mild, and one feels the typical calm of the interseasons. A mountain stay during this period holds beautiful surprises, whether you travel solo, as a couple, or enjoy family holidays. What are we really looking for … Learn more

In brief 1. Discover Lake Annecy from the air Nothing can replace the overview offered by a flight over the lake. From the air, you capture at a glance what a walk on the ground never allows you to see: the shape of the lake, the contrasts between the turquoise waters and the surrounding peaks, … Learn more

Because at about 1,450 meters altitude above Saint-Sigismond, the Agy plateau is one of those generous alpine pastures that make up the discreet charm of Haute-Savoie. Far from the hustle and bustle of the large resorts, this vast plateau offers a 360° panorama of the Giffre, Mont-Blanc, and Aravis massifs, and can be enjoyed on … Learn more

Haute-Savoie is not just about the slopes. Between Lake Annecy, the villages of the Arve valley, and the resorts of the Mont-Blanc massif, several options coexist for the end of the year. Here is what is already confirmed for December 2026, and how to decide based on your dates and budget. Lake, village or altitude, … Learn more

About twelve kilometers west of Annecy, perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the Fier gorges, Montrottier Castle surprises with its medieval fairy-tale silhouette. Behind its crenellated ramparts and cylindrical keep hides one of the most astonishing cabinets of curiosities in Haute-Savoie, the result of the passion of a 19th-century collector. A full presentation of this … Learn more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A few kilometers from Yvoire, one of the most famous villages in Haute-Savoie, lies a still relatively discreet destination. Excenevex attracts families, swimming enthusiasts, and sunset lovers every summer thanks to a unique asset on the French shores of Léman: a genuine natural fine sandy beach. A setting more typically imagined on a Mediterranean coast … Learn more

When temperatures rise, the same destinations often come up: Lake Annecy and Léman. Yet, Haute-Savoie hides many other swimming spots where you can enjoy refreshing water in an exceptional setting. Between sandy beaches, developed bodies of water, mountain lakes, and natural swimming with a view of Mont Blanc, here are five places worth the detour … Learn more

Accessible to most walkers, this walk offers one of the most beautiful panoramas of Haute-Savoie without requiring a long ascent. Between alpine pastures, limestone cliffs, and turquoise waters, it leads to a mountain lake whose scenery resembles the landscapes of the Swiss Alps. An ideal outing idea for families and nature lovers who wish to … Learn more

A few minutes from the Arve valley, an easy walk allows access to one of the most impressive structures in Haute-Savoie. Suspended above a deep ravine, this 160-meter footbridge offers an experience accessible to the whole family and a spectacular panorama of the surrounding mountains. An accessible walk that holds a real surprise Haute-Savoie is … Learn more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Every spring, a quiet corner of Haute-Savoie transforms into a living painting worthy of Japan. Here, pink, white, and sometimes unexpected shades burst under the April sun… offering an experience as rare as it is enchanting. Few visitors know it yet, but this place is home to one of the most beautiful collections of cherry … Learn more

Some experiences make a stay memorable… and others truly transform it.The 2-hour lunch cruise on Lake Annecy aboard the Libellule is definitely one you won’t forget. Whether at lunchtime or in the evening, the experience is always a delight. Imagine: a refined meal, a lake with crystal-clear waters, mountains all around… and you, sitting back … Learn more

A few kilometers from Annecy, there is a place where winter is experienced differently. No dense crowds, no endless queues, but a mountain that is accessible, friendly, and designed for everyone’s enjoyment, young and old alike. Here, people come as much to play in the snow as to breathe, marvel, and share a genuine moment … Learn more

There is, somewhere in the Alps, a natural balcony suspended between sky and peaks. A place you almost arrive at by chance, after a few mountain bends, unaware that you are about to face one of the most striking panoramas in the entire region. Here, the roads rise gently, the forests gradually open up… and … Learn more

In brief A delightful maze of picturesque lanes and a rich history, the fortified medieval village of Yvoire is a true gem of the Savoie Mont Blanc region. Strolling through its streets takes you back to the 14th century while allowing you to enjoy cultural activities and unspoiled nature. As you can see, visiting Yvoire … Learn more

Last updated: 07/27/2026 Nestled in the heart of Yvoire, one of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France“, the Jardin des Cinq Sens is an enchanted retreat on the shores of Lake Geneva. Much more than just a botanical stroll, this remarkable garden invites you to a unique sensory experience where time seems to stand still. … Learn more

An original idea for a walk during your next holidays in Haute Savoie, the ascent to the Col de la Voza or Bellevue by the Mont-Blanc Tramway, one of the last rack railways in the high altitude of France. You will enjoy a panoramic view of the Bionnassaz glacier, the valleys of Chamonix and Les … Learn more

The Haute-Savoie, a department of the Rhône-Alpes region, is full of treasures to discover with family. It is quite naturally that one thinks of winter sports activities when mentioning the mountains. Beyond its numerous ski areas, hiking trails, panoramic views, wildlife, and flora, the Haute-Savoie region has a true gem: « the Secret Garden ». … Learn more

Feeling like escaping, a complete change of scenery? Don’t hesitate any longer and choose the Haute-Savoie department for your upcoming holidays. The Haute-Savoie tourism site invites you to discover an exceptional site in the region: the Gorges du Fier . Located about 10 km from the city of Annecy, le Fier is one of the … Learn more

You only know Annecy by reputation and you want to discover this city with unsuspected riches? The Tourisme Haute-Savoie website offers you some ideas for must-see activities and visits in Annecy. The city of Annecy is located on the edge of a large lake bearing its name in the French Alps about 50 km from … Learn more

The key takeaway: Le Semnoz, the balcony of the Alps located 20 km from Annecy, offers a magical panorama of Mont Blanc and the lakes of Annecy and Bourget. An immediate escape for everyone, between hiking, winter sports, and moments of serenity. At 1699 meters altitude, where Mont Blanc sparkles on clear days. Living in … Learn more

Located in the heart of the Portes du Soleil (14 Franco-Swiss resorts, 650 km of slopes), the village of Les Gets has managed to preserve its art of living and traditions, despite a significant Anglo-Saxon presence. La station de ski des Gets offers, against the backdrop of Mont Blanc, a ski area accessible to all … Learn more

Located in the heart of the Giffre Valley in Haute-Savoie, the Cascade du Rouget is much more than a simple waterfall: it is a natural monument. Rightly nicknamed the “Queen of the Alps”, it offers a striking spectacle of power and wild beauty. Whether you are passing through for an hour or hiking for the … Learn more

Today we are taking you on a hike. It is quite easy and accessible for many. We will stop there to observe this nature and discover two beautiful lakes. On the way to the lac de l’Airon with an estimated time of 30 minutes. A few minutes after departure, we discover a marvel of nature! … Learn more