Haute Savoie is a department rich in places and activities, and it is difficult to discover everything in a short time. In this article, we will offer you a 7-day itinerary that will allow you to discover as many must-see places as possible, but also some quieter spots known only to locals. We have established this itinerary starting from Annemasse, but you can adapt it according to your point of arrival.
From its majestic mountains to its charming villages, through its enchanting lakes and gastronomy, each day offers you a unique experience. Get inspired by this guide for a holiday full of discoveries and adventures.
Day 1: Yvoire – Thonon les Bains
The village of Yvoire: the medieval pearl of Lake Geneva
Perched on a promontory at the southern tip of Lake Geneva, the village of Yvoire is a medieval gem classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. Founded at the beginning of the 14th century to protect lake trade, it still preserves its ramparts, its fortified gates (Nernier and Rovorée), and its imposing keep, a remnant of the lordly castle. Its picturesque architecture is enhanced by remarkable floral displays, the result of numerous national and European awards.
Main sites to visit:
- The gates of Nernier and Rovorée: village entrances dating from the 14th century, listed as historical monuments, they testify to Yvoire’s former strategic role.
- The Château of Yvoire: built by Count Amédée V of Savoy, overlooking the lake from its quadrangular keep, it is now private property and not open to visitors, but its silhouette remains impressive from the quays.
- The Saint-Pancrace Church: recognizable by its shiny onion-shaped bell tower, it was erected in the Middle Ages and restored in the 19th century, with a sober and harmonious interior façade.
- The Garden of Five Senses: created in the former castle vegetable garden, this remarkable garden invites a sensory walk around 900 plant varieties and is among the most visited sites in Haute-Savoie. More info: The Garden of Five Senses
Practical information:
- Access: Yvoire is accessible by car via the A40 (Annemasse or Nangy exits), about 25 km from Geneva. A SNCF train station is located in Perrignier (13 km), and boat shuttles (CGN or solar shuttle) connect Yvoire to Nernier and neighboring Switzerland.
- Traffic in the village: only pedestrian alleys allow strolling. Outdoor parking is available near the gates.
- Opening hours & prices: shops, cafes, and the Garden of Five Senses are open from April to October. The village can be freely visited year-round, with seasonal events such as the Venetian parade or the jazz festival in summer.
- Recommended visiting time: count between 2 and 4 hours: walk through historic alleys, stroll along the port, visit the garden, and enjoy a gourmet break facing the lake.
Why Yvoire?
Halfway between medieval heritage, floral elegance, and exceptional lakeside, Yvoire combines history, nature, and a gentle lifestyle. It’s a perfect stop to enrich your itinerary in Haute‑Savoie, between Chablais and Lake Geneva.
The little extra: for a quieter stroll, take a short visit to the Rovorée estate – La Châtaignière, a few kilometers from Yvoire.
To read: Visiting Yvoire
Boat ride on Lake Geneva: From Yvoire to Nyon
After wandering the medieval streets of Yvoire, extend the experience with a crossing of Lake Geneva heading to Switzerland. Several companies offer regular cruises between Yvoire (France) and Nyon (Switzerland), allowing you to discover the lake from a unique perspective, between flowered shores, castles, and Alpine peaks in the background.
A picturesque crossing
The Yvoire–Nyon crossing lasts about 20 to 25 minutes. On board a modern boat or a Belle Époque steamship (depending on schedule), you enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of Lake Geneva and the Savoyard reliefs. Departure is directly from Yvoire’s small port, just steps from the Nernier gate.
Itinerary in Nyon: a half-day between heritage, lake, and Swiss charm
➤ 1. The Château of Nyon (5 min walk from the port)
Overlooking Lake Geneva, the Château of Nyon is a symbol of the city. Built in the 12th century and later revised, it now houses a museum dedicated to faience and decorative arts. Its courtyard, white towers, and exhibition rooms offer an exceptional view of the lake.
- Visiting time: about 45 minutes
- Price: CHF 8 (~8 €), free with the Nyon Région Card
➤ 2. The Old Town and its flowered alleys
From the château, take the cobbled streets of the old town. You will discover a peaceful atmosphere, punctuated by old fountains, artisan shops, and charming cafes. Stop at Place du Marché or Rue Saint-Jean for a sweet break or a local ice cream.
➤ 3. The Lake Geneva Museum (10 min walk, on Quai Louis-Bonnard)
Housed in a former arsenal, this original museum is dedicated to Lake Geneva. You will see boat models, aquariums, and interactive exhibitions on ecology, navigation, and lake-related trades. Fun, instructive, perfect for families.
- Visiting time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Price: CHF 8 (~8 €)
➤ 4. Walk on the quays and garden of the Conservatory
End your visit with a stroll along the Rive quays, up to the Conservatory garden. This flowered park overlooks the port and offers a splendid view of the lake, the distant French mountains, and… Yvoire, where you came from. A quiet moment to close this Swiss interlude beautifully.
Practical information
Bonus tip: if you have a bit more time, visit the Roman archaeological site of Colonia Iulia Equestris (just outside the center), which recalls Nyon’s importance in ancient times.
- Company: CGN (Compagnie Générale de Navigation sur le lac Léman)
- Schedule: regular crossings from April to October, with 5 to 8 round trips per day in high season.
- Prices: about 17 € one-way for an adult (discounts for children, families, Swisspass, or Léman Pass available).
- Ticketing: at Yvoire port ticket offices, online on the CGN website, or via some tourist offices.
- Good to know: bikes are allowed on board (extra charge), as well as dogs on leashes. Remember your ID card or passport, as you cross an international border.
- Currency: On the Swiss side, although some shops accept euros, prefer credit card or Swiss francs. If you pay in euros, your change will most likely be returned in Swiss francs.
Why choose this cruise?
This short lake escape offers a peaceful break between two stages of your stay, while adding an unusual cross-border dimension. A suspended moment, perfect to soak in the gentle and majestic atmosphere of Lake Geneva.
Thonon les Bains: end of day and night in Thonon
To gently close your day, nothing beats a stop at Thonon-les-Bains, a lively and elegant spa town, nestled between lake and mountains. In late afternoon, stroll along the Belvédère promenade, which offers an exceptional panoramic view over the port and Lake Geneva. Then descend to the port of Rives via the historic funicular (or on foot for the more motivated): this peaceful neighborhood, with the atmosphere of a fishing village, is ideal for an aperitif on a terrace or a dinner by the water.
In the evening, choose a digestive walk along the quays or a moment of relaxation at the Thonon thermal baths if you stay during the week. Regarding accommodation, the town offers a wide choice of hotels, guest rooms, and residences. For a fully comfortable stay, prefer establishments with lake views or located in the historic center, just steps from restaurants and cafés. A perfect setting to recharge batteries before continuing your Haute-Savoie journey.
Good dining addresses in Thonon-les-Bains
Here are some quality establishments for a successful dinner, combining local cuisine, a charming setting, and a friendly atmosphere close to the lake:
Ô Vent d’Anges
Located right next to the belvédère with a view over Lake Geneva, this restaurant offers modern, creative homemade cuisine made with fresh and noble products. The welcome is warm, in a contemporary industrial-inspired decor. Open Tuesday to Saturday, serving lunch and dinner. An ideal address for a refined culinary experience.
Les Marronniers – place de Crête
A local institution founded in 1920, highly appreciated for its traditional French and Savoyard cuisine. Homemade dishes, daily specials, and menus at gentle prices (daily dish around 14 €, menu at 23–25 €), flowery setting with terraces and garden. Open lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday.
La Brasserie du Général
Founded in 1864, this historic brasserie offers quality traditional cuisine served in a renovated bistro atmosphere. Terrace with lake view possible, authentic ambiance, seasonal dishes, and recognized quality of service over several generations. Open Monday to Saturday, continuous service.
Le Temps d’M
Bistro appreciated for its affordable menus (starter–main–dessert around 37 €) and contemporary French cuisine, often cited among the best tables in downtown Thonon. Friendly atmosphere and a menu mixing classics and seasonal creations.
Day 2: Evian les Bains – Abondance Valley
Evian les Bains: thermal elegance and the gentle spirit of Lake Geneva
Start this second day with a morning in Évian-les-Bains, a spa town renowned for its refinement and beneficial mineral waters. Bordering Lake Geneva, the town charms with its Belle Époque atmosphere, well-kept gardens, fountains, and historic facades.
Stroll along the lake promenade to the marina, then head back towards the city center to discover the essentials: the Palais Lumière, a former thermal establishment now a cultural and exhibition center, or the Cachat spring, the iconic heart of the Évian brand, where you can freely taste the water. Also don’t miss visiting the Villa Lumière, the present town hall, a real jewel of neo-classical architecture.
For a gourmet break, sit on a terrace facing the lake or under the arcades of Rue Nationale, where fine bakeries, tea rooms, and small brasseries compete in charm. Évian thus offers a moment of calm and freshness, between art of living and thermal heritage, perfect to start the day beautifully.
Heading to the mountains: direction La Chapelle d’Abondance
After a morning between thermal heritage and lake pleasures at Évian-les-Bains, it’s time to leave the shores of Lake Geneva to reach the first Alpine reliefs of the Chablais. Take the road southeast along the Abondance Valley to reach La Chapelle d’Abondance, a charming mountain village nestled at 1,000 meters altitude. Allow about 45 minutes of a scenic drive, punctuated by forests, pastures, and typical chalets. On the way, you will cross Abondance — known for its abbey and AOP cheese — before reaching this little corner of paradise, perfect for a nature and authentic pause in the heart of the Savoyard Alps.
La Chapelle d’Abondance: nature, traditions, and alpine cheeses
Nestled in the heart of the Abondance Valley, just steps from the Swiss border, La Chapelle d’Abondance is a small mountain village known for its family atmosphere, authenticity, and pastoral heritage. Here, the pure air, green Alpine pastures, and the sound of cowbells create a soothing Alpine symphony.
Start your visit with a riverside walk along the Dranse River banks trail, accessible to all and perfectly maintained. For walking enthusiasts, several easy routes lead to alpine chalets or offer beautiful views of the surrounding peaks (Mont de Grange, Cornettes de Bise). In summer, you can also opt for a guided mountain walk or a “cheese heritage discovery” outing to visit a local farm and taste the must-try Abondance AOP cheese.
Don’t miss a tour of the village, around its baroque church, artisans, and some good restaurants where you can enjoy tartiflette, Savoyard croûte, or cheese fondue… In the evening, enjoy the absolute calm of the valley, with a night in a chalet, a mountain inn, or a typical hotel with meadow views. It’s the perfect place to disconnect, recharge, and savor the mountains simply.
Easy stroll from La Chapelle d’Abondance
Sentier de l’Abray – easy walk along a stream
- Estimated duration: 1 h 15 to 1 h 30, ideal for a peaceful afternoon outing.
- Distance / Elevation gain: about 3 to 4 km, very slight elevation gain (+ a few tens of meters).
- Level: easy, suitable for everyone (walkers, families, people with strollers).
- Start: in the village center, near the Notre-Dame-de-Compassion chapel. The route begins on Route de Chevenne and then joins a peaceful forest trail.
Highlights:
- Immersion in a mountain forest rich in spruces, firs, and local species.
- Clear view of Mont de Grange and then the Cornettes de Bise, from a small scree offering a beautiful panoramic view.
- Passing through a fallow deer park for an interesting wildlife experience.
- Easy return along the Chevenne stream, in the heart of the alpine pasture. There are benches, resting areas, and even a small fitness trail.
Day 3: Abondance Valley – Morzine
After a restful night in La Chapelle d’Abondance, it is time to leave the green peaks of Chablais to plunge into a quite different, more mysterious and mineral universe. Head southwest following the Dranse Valley to the village of La Vernaz, about a 45-minute drive.
On the way, enjoy some photo stops around Lake Montriond or the steep landscapes bordering the Dranse de Morzine.
Your morning destination: the Gorges du Pont du Diable, a spectacular site shaped by the river over millennia. Here, the limestone has been carved into narrow galleries, deep potholes, and dizzying cavities, offering a striking contrast with the gentle pastures explored the day before. The perfect opportunity to live an underground immersion, between local legend and raw power of nature.
The Devil’s Bridge Gorges
The Devil’s Bridge Gorges, located in the Aulps Valley near Morzine in Haute-Savoie, offer an impressive natural spectacle sculpted by thousands of years of erosion. This spectacular site takes its name from a local legend: it is said that the Devil himself was responsible for this mysterious place and marked the landscape with his power.
These deep gorges, carved by the tumultuous waters of the Dranse de Morzine, reveal a succession of rock formations and dizzying walls, making the walk as beautiful as captivating. Access is via a paved trail allowing visitors to descend into the heart of the gorges and admire the play of light on the limestone, with constant humidity giving the walls a deep and lively green.
Beyond the beauty of the place, the site offers a thematic trail, with informational panels explaining the geology, fauna, flora, as well as the associated history and legends. A guided tour is also offered for a full immersion, helping to better understand the secrets of this unique environment.
Practical information:
- Address: 205 route des Grandes Alpes (D902) Place called “Le Jotty” 74200 LA VERNAZ
- Opening hours:
- Open daily from April 1 to October 13 without reservation
- April/May/June: 10:30 am to 4:30 pm continuous. Last ticket sold at 4 pm
- July/August: 9 am to 6 pm continuous. Last ticket sold at 5:30 pm
- September: 10:30 am to 4:30 pm continuous. Last ticket sold at 4 pm
- Prices (2024):
- Adults (16 years and up): 18 €
- Youths (4-15 years): 14 €
- Children (-4 years): Free
- Group rates available on request for groups of 20 or more
- Visit duration: Between 1 and 1.5 hours round trip.
- Parking: Large parking near the gorge entrance
Now head to Morzine, stopping at one of the most unusual and charming places in Chablais
The village of Lindarets: the mountains… and the goats!
Before reaching Morzine, make an unforgettable stop at the village of Lindarets, perched at 1,470 meters altitude in the Aulps Valley. Accessible by car from Montriond (15 to 20 minutes along a winding road), this small alpine hamlet is famous for a unique feature: free-roaming goats wandering the village streets.
They delight children and surprise visitors, letting themselves be approached and fed (in moderation). The atmosphere is distinctly mountain-like, with wooden chalets, flowered terraces, and artisanal cheese shops.
You can stroll among local product shops (tomme cheese, sausage, jams) or have lunch in one of the small alpine restaurants, which offer Savoyard platters, cheese croûtes, or homemade blueberry tarts. In summer, the village is accessible by car, but also by chairlift or on foot from Lake Montriond for the more motivated.
After this original and gourmet interlude, resume your journey towards Morzine, only 20 minutes from Lindarets. This iconic Portes du Soleil resort village will be the last big stop of your day, combining dynamic Alpine atmosphere, mountain activities, and Savoyard way of life. Ideal for spending the evening, dining in a lively center, and enjoying typical chalet or warm hotel accommodation.
Morzine: a lively evening in the heart of the Portes du Soleil
Nestled in the Dranse Valley at 1,000 meters altitude, Morzine is a mountain resort both authentic and lively, blending chalet spirit with a bustling village atmosphere. In summer, the resort reveals another face beyond skiing: that of a dynamic, festive, and sporty holiday destination.
Start your discovery with a stroll in the village center, among wooden chalets, small flowered squares, and shopping alleys. Don’t miss taking a look at the Sainte-Marie-Madeleine church and the old bridge spanning the Dranse, in the heart of the village. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the Morzine Bike Park or simply watch riders in action on the pump tracks and mountain bike trails crossing the resort.
For dinner, Morzine offers a fine selection of restaurants: traditional Savoyard cuisine, mountain bistronomy, or terraces with views over the peaks. The atmosphere is relaxed, often enlivened by concerts or open-air events in the summer season.
Regarding accommodation, the resort offers many options: charming hotels, chalets to rent, guest rooms, or residences. Many addresses are ideally located around the center or on heights with mountain views. Morzine is an excellent base for resting before a new Alpine day… or for extending the evening on a terrace under the stars.
Day 4: Morzine – Giffre Valley
Leave Morzine in the fresh morning and gain altitude by taking the panoramic route climbing to the Joux Plane Pass (1,690 m). This spectacular climb offers one of the region’s most beautiful views: the Mont Blanc, majestic, stands out in the distance above the pastures and forests. The pass, often used by the Tour de France, connects Morzine to Samoëns and is a must-visit spot for landscape lovers.
Joux Plane Pass
At Joux Plane Pass, enjoy the viewpoint, and if you have some time, go discover the panorama at the summit of La Bourgeoise.
Short hike: summit of La Bourgeoise
From Joux Plane Pass, you can take an easy and quick hike to the summit of La Bourgeoise (1,770 m), ideal to enjoy a 360° panoramic view.
- Round trip duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Elevation gain: about +150 m
- Difficulty: easy, accessible to all levels
- Start: from the pass parking, follow signs “La Bourgeoise”
- Exceptional views: over Mont Blanc, the Giffre Valley, the White Teeth (“Dents Blanches”), and even the Aravis range.
The path winds through flowery pastures, sometimes crosses a few herds, and ends at an orientation table atop a rocky plateau: one of the region’s best viewpoints. Perfect for a picnic or a contemplative break.
After this Alpine interlude, descend gently towards Samoëns, your next stage of the day, nestled in the heart of the Giffre Valley.
Samoëns: heritage, carved stone, and gentle living
After crossing the alpine pastures of Joux Plane Pass, head down to Samoëns, one of the few mountain villages classified as a “Historical Monument” for its heritage and stone architecture. Nestled in the heart of the Giffre Valley, this centuries-old town charms with its peaceful atmosphere, its alpine botanical garden (La Jaÿsinia), its stone-carving artisans, and traditional houses.
Start with a walk in the pedestrian center: the main square with its old linden tree planted in 1438, the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, the cobbled alleys, and the flowered balconies tell the story of a lively and authentic mountain village. If you have some time, pop into a stone carving workshop or taste a piece of tomme cheese in an artisanal cheese shop.
Samoëns is also a good starting point for outdoor activities: mountain biking, via ferrata, swimming in the Lake des Dames, or exploring the valley by electric bike. But for the afternoon, a natural jewel awaits only a few kilometers away…
The Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval: nature’s cathedral
Take the road from Samoëns towards Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, then continue to the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval, one of the most impressive natural sites in Haute-Savoie. This gigantic horseshoe-shaped limestone cliff, over 700 meters high, is dotted with dizzying waterfalls, some exceeding 200 meters in drop.
Accessible to all, the site can be visited on foot via several maintained trails:
- The discovery trail (an easy loop of about 1h30), well marked, allows immersion in the scenery without difficulty.
- For the more motivated, continue to the Fond de la Combe, at the foot of the Prazon glacier, in absolute silence, a moderate 3-hour round trip hike.
On site: a paid parking (in season), a welcome point, a small café-restaurant, and the possibility to rent binoculars to observe wildlife (ibex, bearded vultures, marmots).
Best period: May to October, ideally after snowmelt, when the thirty waterfalls burst over the entire cliff face.
Last stop of the day: Rouget waterfall, the “Queen of the Alps”
On the way back after the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval excursion, make a stop at one of the most spectacular jewels of the Giffre Valley: the Rouget waterfall. Nicknamed the “Queen of the Alps”, this dizzying nearly 90-meter drop is a true water wall bursting from the cliffs with an impressive crash.
Accessible by car via a small mountain road from Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval (about 15 minutes), it can be viewed effortlessly from a developed belvedere, but can also be approached on foot via a short path to fully feel its power up close. Late in the day, when sun rays illuminate the curtain of water, the effect is magical, and the crowds are much thinner.
Visiting time: 20 to 30 minutes, or longer if you want to picnic or extend the walk.
Access: Fer-à-Cheval road, free parking at the foot of the waterfall (or main parking below if the road is closed to traffic).
Hiking possible: If you spend an extra day on site, discover the Sales Waterfalls and the Sales chalets from Lignon. This hike will make you discover a series of superb waterfalls, but also many ibex and marmots.
Night in Samoëns or Sixt: calm and nature guaranteed
To end this day full of emotions, stay overnight in Samoëns, in a charming hotel, a wooden chalet, or a village guest room, close to the center’s restaurants and shops. If you seek more tranquility, you can also choose to overnight in Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, in a mountain inn at the foot of the cliffs, to fall asleep to the sound of the river and under the stars.
Day 5: Chamonix Valley, between sky and ice, heart of Mont Blanc
The fifth day of your stay takes you to one of the most iconic places in the Alps: the Chamonix Valley, cradle of mountaineering and gateway to Europe’s highest peaks. Prepare for a grandiose day, between vertiginous verticality and the ice sea of the Mer de Glace.
From Samoëns or Sixt, take the road towards Cluses, then Sallanches and Chamonix. Expect an hour and a half drive (one hour if you take the highway at Cluses towards Chamonix).
The Aiguille du Midi, face to face with Mont Blanc
Start your day early to avoid crowds by going to the departure station of the Aiguille du Midi cable car, south of Chamonix.
To read: The Aiguille du Midi, the complete guide
In two vertiginous sections, you will be propelled to 3,842 meters altitude, facing Mont Blanc, within arm’s reach. From the panoramic terrace, the view opens 360° over the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps. A suspended, unforgettable moment.
Prepare: warm clothing, even in summer (temperature often below zero at the summit)
- Must-see on site:
- the summit terrace with views over Mont Blanc
- the footbridge between the two rock spires
- the famous “Step into the Void”, a glass box hanging in the void for thrill-seekers
- the mountaineering museum and the crystal gallery
- expedition departures to glaciers (to observe in summer)
- Practical information:
- Time on site: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Round-trip ticket: from €70 per adult (strongly recommended to book in advance)
Montenvers train and the Mer de Glace
Then descend back into the valley for another Alpine experience: board the legendary Montenvers cogwheel train, in service since 1908. In 20 minutes of travel from Chamonix, it takes you to 1,913 meters altitude, at the foot of the largest glacier in France, the famous Mer de Glace.
The site is impressive in scale, but also moving: the glacier’s retreat is clearly visible, and exhibitions on climate change take on full meaning here.
To read: The Montenvers train and the Mer de Glace
Prepare: good shoes, water bottle, and time management if visiting the ice cave
- To see on site:
- the ice cave dug every year in the glacier (accessible via cable car + 500 steps)
- the Glaciorium, a small interactive museum about glaciers
- the Crystal Gallery
- views of the Drus and the Giant’s Tooth
- Practical information:
- Visit duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Round-trip ticket: about €38 (included in the Mont-Blanc Multipass)
End of day in Chamonix: strolling and mountain atmosphere
Back in town, enjoy the late afternoon strolling the lively streets of Chamonix: mountain shops, ice cream parlors, friendly terraces, and cosmopolitan atmosphere await you. Don’t hesitate to visit Saint-Michel Church, the Maison de la Montagne, or simply sit with a view on the massif for a well-deserved rest.
For dinner and overnight stay, Chamonix offers plenty of options: from traditional hotels to contemporary chalets, from Savoyard fondue to world cuisine, you are sure to find your happiness in this unique town where the mountain is everywhere.
Useful tips in Chamonix
Mont Blanc Multipass
Consider buying the Mont Blanc Multipass, a very advantageous combined ticket that gives access in one day to:
- The Aiguille du Midi
- The Montenvers train
- The Planpraz or Brévent cable cars
- And several other lifts in the valley
- It is valid for one or several days (passes from 1 to 3 days) and avoids queuing at each site. Purchase online or at the Tourist Office.
Time schedule to anticipate
- Arrive early (before 9 am) for the Aiguille du Midi cable car: attendance is heavy, especially in summer.
- Allow at least 3 to 4 hours between Aiguille du Midi and Montenvers if chaining both on the same day.
- The Montenvers ice cave closes earlier than the station (last descent around 4:30–5 pm).
Lunch break
- To avoid crowded restaurants, consider taking a picnic or sandwich to enjoy facing Mont Blanc: parks and the banks of the Arve River are perfect for that.
- Otherwise, try a quick and tasty break at Crèmerie du Glacier (near Bois) or at Cool Cats (downtown).
Parking and transportation
- Downtown parking lots are paid and often full in the afternoon. Prefer Grépon parking, large, near the cable car, and connected to the center by a free shuttle.
- The Mont-Blanc Express train and free valley shuttles (Mulet) allow easy car-free travel.
Weather preparation
- Always check the altitude weather on chamonix.com or at the Tourist Office: in the mountains, weather can change fast.
- Even in summer, it can be 0 °C at the Aiguille du Midi summit: bring fleece, windbreaker, and sunglasses.
Day 6: From Megève to Annecy: mountain elegance, Alpine pastures, and dream lake
This sixth day is a true crossing of Haute-Savoie’s ambiances: from the chic alleys of Megève to the flowery Alpine pastures of the Aravis Pass, through the lively village of La Clusaz, ending in Annecy, a lakeside gem where you’ll finish the day with your feet in the water.
Megève, between refinement and panorama
From Chamonix, leave early to reach Megève (about 1h10 drive). In this uniquely charming village, traditional architecture and upscale shops coexist with an authentic way of life.
What to see and do in Megève:
- Stroll in the pedestrian center, around the Church Square
- Climb to the calvary for an unobstructed view of the village
- Enjoy a coffee or pastry in an Alpine tea room
- (In summer) Take the cable car up to Mont d’Arbois or Rochebrune for a short walk and views of Mont Blanc
Recommended duration on site: 1h30 to 2h
Aravis Pass – balcony over Mont Blanc
Then take the scenic route of the Val d’Arly towards the Aravis Pass (1,486 m). Count about 45 minutes drive, crossing Flumet and La Giettaz. From the pass summit, a spectacular viewpoint opens on the Mont Blanc range, often considered one of Haute-Savoie’s most beautiful.
Things to do at the pass:
- Buy local products directly from Alpine farms: farmhouse reblochon cheese, tomme de Savoie, sausages
- Have lunch in a small chalet inn with panoramic terrace (raclette or croziflette optional)
- Visit the Sainte-Anne chapel nestled in a mountain setting
La Clusaz, lively charm of the Aravis
Then head down to La Clusaz (20 min drive), an emblematic village in the Aravis massif, appreciated both for its family resorts and its authentic atmosphere.
Things to do in La Clusaz:
- Discover the village center, its church, its flowered chalets
- Walk in the Alpine pastures accessible by chairlift, or do a short hike around Beauregard
- Refresh with a stop at the Parc des Confins or in a café in the center
- For children: small amusement park, fun trails, mini-golf
Recommended time: 1h30 to 2h on site
End of day and night in Annecy, the pearl of the lake
In late afternoon, take the road towards Annecy, about 50 minutes from La Clusaz via Thônes. Descending into the valley, mountains gradually give way to the turquoise waters of the lake, for a poetic and restful end of day.
Once in Annecy:
- Evening stroll in the Old Town of Annecy: canals, arcades, cobbled alleys, and pastel facades
- Dine on a terrace along the Thiou Canal or on the lake quays
- Stay in a hotel, guest room, or aparthotel in the center or with lake views
Practical tip: if you visit in summer, book your accommodation in advance – Annecy is very popular.
Good plans for the evening in Annecy’s Old Town
After a day on the mountain roads, nothing beats an evening in Annecy combining relaxation, gastronomy, and romantic atmosphere. Here are some suggestions to fully enjoy the Old Town at dusk:
Where to dine?
- L’Etage: Savoyard bistro nestled in a half-timbered house, perfect for a calm fondue.
- La Table d’Élise: more contemporary cuisine, fresh products, and a fine wine list in a sleek setting.
- Le Fréti: a local institution to try all kinds of fondues in a mountain-themed decor.
Where to have a drink?
- Captain Pub (rue Sainte-Claire): wide beer selection and lively terrace.
- Bar Roux d’Heure: cozy lounge and discreet cocktail bar with retro charm.
- Le Savoie: ideal for a drink by the canal, relaxed atmosphere with views of illuminated bridges.
Short digestive walk
- Walk up the Thiou Canal by night to the Pont Perrière
- Pause facing the illuminated Palais de l’Île
- End with a walk under the plane trees of the Pâquier, with views over the shimmering lake
In July/August, many concerts, night markets, and outdoor screenings take place in the center.
Day 7: Annecy and its lake: gentle living by the water
For your last day in Haute-Savoie, treat yourself to a moment of calm, beauty, and wandering. Between pastel-colored alleys, turquoise water, and mountains in the background, Annecy is the ideal place to finish your trip in style.
To read: Visiting Annecy
Discovering Old Annecy
Start the day with a walk in the historic center, nicknamed the “Venice of the Alps”. Wander narrow cobbled streets lined with arcades, admire ocher and pink facades, and let yourself be carried by the peaceful morning atmosphere.
Must-see sights:
- The Palais de l’Île, emblem of Annecy (former courthouse on an island)
- The Château of Annecy, museum and viewpoint over the city roofs
- The Sainte-Claire Street and its market (Tuesday, Friday, or Sunday morning)
- The Thiou Canal, one of the shortest but most remarkable canals in France
Noon: lunch with your feet in the water
Choose a restaurant with terrace alongside the canal or on the lake shore. For an unforgettable experience, opt for:
- Les Terrasses du Lac in Albigny for a direct water view
- La Bicyclette Rose in the old town, for a more intimate gourmet break
Afternoon: cruise or swim on Lake Annecy
To fully enjoy Lake Annecy, three options are available depending on your desires:
Option 1: panoramic cruise
- Board a commented one-hour cruise departing from Napoléon III quay
- Admire Talloires, Menthon-Saint-Bernard, Roc de Chère, and wild beaches
- Price: approx. 17–20 €/adult
To read: Lunch cruise on Lake Annecy: a unique experience aboard the Libellule
Option 2: swimming and relaxing
- Settle at the Marquisats beach (free, supervised, grassy area)
- Or opt for Albigny beach, larger, with pedal boat and paddle rentals
To read: The beaches of Lake Annecy: the complete guide to enjoy your stay
Option 3: cycling around Lake Annecy
- Rent a bike from one of the many rental shops: bike rental in Annecy
- Discover the lake from another angle by cycling its 40 km perimeter
To read: Cycling around Lake Annecy
Last stroll and departure
Finish your afternoon with a walk around the Pâquier, this large flat park by the water, much loved by locals. Then head to the Pont des Amours, an iconic spot for one last photo or a contemplative moment facing the mountains.
Thus ends your week in Haute-Savoie, between peaks, waterfalls, authentic villages, and azure reflections. A balanced itinerary between nature, heritage, gastronomy, and unforgettable landscapes. So, have a great trip!
Map of the route
Frequently asked questions about this 7-day itinerary in Haute-Savoie
Is this 7-day itinerary in Haute-Savoie doable without a car?
Difficult to do entirely without a car: several stages (La Chapelle d’Abondance, the Joux Plane Pass, the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval, the Aravis Pass) are little or not served by public transport. However, major city stages (Annecy, Chamonix, Thonon, Évian) are well connected by train, and certain sites like Yvoire, Aiguille du Midi, or Montenvers are accessible without a car once there.
What is the best period to do this itinerary?
The ideal window is from May to September: the mountain passes (Joux Plane, Aravis), the Devil’s Bridge Gorges, and the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval are open and the waterfalls well fed after snowmelt. July and August offer the most events but also the highest crowds, notably in Chamonix and Annecy.
What budget to plan for a week in Haute-Savoie?
The budget mainly depends on accommodation and paid activities (Aiguille du Midi cable car, Montenvers train, entrance to the Devil’s Bridge Gorges). The Mont Blanc Multipass helps limit expenses in the Chamonix valley by grouping several lifts into one ticket.
Is this itinerary suitable for a family trip with children?
Yes, most stages are family-friendly: the village of Lindarets and its free-roaming goats, Lake Annecy’s beaches, Parc des Confins in La Clusaz, or easy hikes (Abray trail, La Bourgeoise summit) present no particular difficulty.
Can this itinerary be shortened to 4 or 5 days?
Yes, by prioritizing some stages: Lake Geneva and its villages (Yvoire, Évian, Thonon) can form the first part of the trip, and the Chamonix valley with Annecy the second, skipping the Abondance Valley or the Giffre Valley according to your preferences.
