Holidays in Savoie: How to visit this beautiful region?

Where to go for a day out in the Savoie?

When planning a holiday in the Alps, first you must decide on the kind of accommodation you want to stay in? Here's an overview of types of exclusive offers in Haute-Savoie which can be found on VeryChic:

• A luxury hotel in Chamonix. This is the ideal spot to maximise the soothing effect of the surrounding nature and to recharge both body and mind.
• A nature resort as the La Croix de Savoie. This destination offers a superb green setting that you will undoubtedly spend hours admiring.
• An ski rest of in the heart of Les Arcs. No matter which of the four piétion villages you choose, this guarantees an incredible ski and winter sport experience!
• An upscale manor in Annecy. Whether for a weekend or more, summer or winter, the pearl of the Alps is ready to welcome you for a truly romantic escape.

 

What are the must-visit ski resorts in Savoie?

 

Courchevel

 

 

Courchevel is a winter sports resort in the Tarentaise valley, belonging to the world's largest ski area: les 3 Vallées. Its domain offers myriad landscapes. It is also considered to be the resort that pioneered the art of slope preparation. That's all there is to it! In winter, you will have access to impeccable and beautifully groomed slopes. Moreover, its architecture honours the typical materials of the mountain, such as stone and wood, giving the place a unique charm and an ability to blend in perfectly with nature. Finally, you can enjoy unparalleled services. Indeed, free shuttles are at your disposal and will allow you to reach various places of interest. And when it comes to gastronomy, you should know that the station's quality offer allows it to distinguish itself and be renowned.

If on site you hover between having fun and relaxing, the Aquamotion de Courchevel is for you. It is the largest aquatic centre in Europe built in the mountains and has been designed to welcome young and old. From its wild river to its paddling pool, its wellness area and its restaurant, everything seems to be united to live unique moments. Don't wait any longer and book your hotel in Courchevel!

 

Val Thorens

Val Thorens is a resort born 40 years ago and located in the Vallée des Belleville. Its more than 3,000 mètres altitude make it one of the highest resorts in Europe and the highest point of the 3 Vallées area. It is renowned for its good family and festive atmosphere. Moreover, if you travel with your tribe, you will benefit from all the commitments that come with its "Resort Famille Plus Montagne" label. These include, in particular, a personalised welcome or activities and entertainment adapted to all ages. Its other asset is the immediate proximity of all the slopes to the places of residence. In addition, its varied terrain allows all levels to be welcome. In fact, the closest you get to the resort, the slopes are easy and then, the further you go, the more technical you will need to be.

Finally, don't miss out on the fun.

Finally, don't miss out on all the activities on offer on site in all seasons. For example, zip-lining at 100 kilometres per hour, a scenic lift with great views, a toboggan run, a 7,500 square metre indoor sports centre, and much more.

 

La Plagne

La Plagne is a family-friendly winter sports resort ensuring its international reputation for over 50 years. This is due to its vast skiable area suitable for all levels and its more than 200 kilometres of pistes. In fact, the village actually includes ten resorts, six high altitude and four village resorts. You will therefore fall under the spell of the diversity of its infrastructures and accommodation. Between forests and glaciers, you will cover a territory of which 70% is situated above 2,000 mètres in altitude. This ensures a superb snow cover throughout the winter season! You will also be able to enjoy superb views of the French Alps including the inimitable Mont-Blanc. Moreover, the particularities of the station of La Plagne do not stop there, as you will enjoy an ice tower unseen in Europe and the only French bobsleigh track. Finally, you should know that La Plagne does not lose its appeal at all in summer. It offers you beautiful hikes or bike rides and a magnificent green setting.

 

Les Arcs

Les Arcs is a ski resort in Savoie located opposite the Mont-Blanc and grouping five sites of different altitudes. All year round, they welcome you and offer you different experiences that will make your stay a succession of unique moments. In winter, you will appreciate the quality of the snow cover and the superb setting of the resort. You will also love the diversity of the slopes which will allow you to go from 1,200m to 3,250m of altitude in a very short time. Freeride enthusiasts can explore undiscovered areas. Families or more cautious skiers can take advantage of the many facilities on offer. From the snow park to the toboggan run to the bordercross, boredom will certainly not be part of the trip!

In the summer, you can enjoy a day in the mountains punctuated by outdoor activities. Follow one of the 40 hiking trails while enjoying the view. Practice your golf swing. Refresh yourself with a canoe trip or a rafting trip. Or take part in fun activities with your children. In short, enjoy the best of holidays in the mountains!

 

What are the natural areas to go to?

Aside from its resorts, the Savoie has some breathtakingly beautiful natural landscapes. And it is not those that follow that will make you think otherwise.

 

The Vanoise National Park

 

 

The Parc National de la Vanoise is located between the high valleys of the Maurienne and the Tarentaise. It stretches over 535 square kilometres and offers 400 kilometres of marked trails. Thanks to this ideal location and the protection provided by the Préalpes and the chaîne of Belledonne, it is very little subject to precipitation. Here you will find a wide variety of rocks, such as limestone, sandstone, shale and many more. A surprising wealth of flora and fauna! It is therefore with the aim of protecting this wealth that the park was created. It also aims to raise awareness among its visitors and to introduce them to this incredible nature through animations and activities.

 

The Beaufortain massif

The Beaufortain massif is a massif situated between lake and mountain grouping together four communes. So you can guess that the hiking possibilities are numerous! Suitable for all levels, they will keep you busy during your holidays, whether with family or friends. Start your discoveries in Arêches-Beaufort. This village resort is situated between 700 and 2,300 metres above sea level and offers a unique opportunity to discover a commune full of authenticity. Continue to Hauteluce, a village nicknamed the balcony of Mont Blanc. Its preserved heritage will undoubtedly make you fall under its charm! Then head to Queige, a village that acts as a starting point for summer walks or winter activities. Finish with Villard-sur-Doron, a village with an unmistakable mountain character. Between small houses and wooden chalets, you will fully feel the Savoyard atmosphere. Finally, note that the Massif du Beaufortain also includes a ski area close to the Mont-Blanc. Good news for winter sports enthusiasts wishing to practice activities while respecting this superb nature!

 

The Mont Thabor

The Mont Thabor is located on the border between the Savoie and the Hautes-Alpes. It belongs to the Cerces massif, or more precisely to the chaînon du Thabor, and culminates at an altitude of more than 3,100 mètres. It promises a superb hike to its summit. And if that is your motivation, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the surroundings once you reach the top. Please note, however, that this walk will not be easy. Not because of the physical difficulties that would accompany it, but because you will need almost nine hours of walking to complete it. However, there are some great discoveries along the way that won't make you regret the decision. These include the small, quiet Caspi Lake or a frog lake. Not to mention the beautiful scenery that unfolds.

 

What are the lakes to see during a day in Savoie?

Lake Bourget

Near Chambéry, at 18 kilometres long, the lac du Bourget is one of France’s largest lakes. Now that it has inspired the greatest poets, such as Alphonse de Lamartine, it is your turn to discover it and understand what makes it so attractive. Your gaze will begin to rest on its steep relief. It will soon be attracted by the many-coloured vegetation that covers them. You will then feel the urge to overlook this fantastic landscape. You will then climb up to the Belvédère de la Chambotte.

 

 

Lake Léman

The Lake Léman may be located at an altitude of 372 metres, but its coastline has the air of the French Riviera. Situated between France and Switzerland, it covers an area of 58,000 hectares and 167 kilometres of Franco-Swiss shoreline. A veritable inland sea! On the French side, you will find many ports where you can relax, including Évian-les-Bains. The latter, a world-famous spa town, has managed to retain its simplicity and authenticity despite everything. Also learn about the beauty of the colonial-style houses and the richness of the cosy atmosphere.

 

Lake Annecy

The Lac d’Annecy is the star of the one nicknamed the « Venice of the Alps ». In addition to its charmingly picturesque appearance, it is considered to be the purest in Europe. You can visit it all year round. In the summer, you can stroll along one of its 12 beaches and swim in waters that can reach temperatures of 24 degrees. You can also enjoy water sports such as kitesurfing and paddle boarding. In winter, you can enjoy a boat trip, the ideal way to soak up the atmosphere.

 

Aiguebelette

Aiguebelette is the most secret of the Savoyard lakes. Its area has been classified as a regional natural reserve since 2015 and its wild nature explains this status perfectly. Here, you can recharge your batteries in front of exceptional panoramas. You can also enjoy activities in the lake, on land or in the air. Finally, don't miss out on the gourmet experiences on offer that will delight your taste buds.