Patrick 
In brief : A Postcard Under Siege Cobblestone alleys, turquoise canals, colorful facades reflected in the water: Annecy’s old town looks exactly like a postcard. It is precisely this setting that poses a problem. During summer peak hours, the streets of Perrière or Sainte-Claire turn into a slow parade of strollers, selfie sticks, and guided … Learn more
It seems that snoring is the number one enemy of the dormitory. That it is he alone who sabotages nights in a refuge. That earplugs, noise-cancelling headphones, or even a sleeping bag tightly sealed over the head would be needed to protect oneself from it. Yet, ask any seasoned hiker what really kept them from … Learn more
A sky darkening, some distant rumblings of thunder… The signs announcing a storm are generally quite easy to identify. But there is one much less known to hikers: a strange buzzing or crackling that sometimes feels like being surrounded by bees. The phenomenon is serious enough to be mentioned in official safety recommendations. The Ministry … Learn more
After a year of interruption, the Peasant Festival returns to La Balme-de-Sillingy on Saturday, August 29, 2026. Held at the Domaine du Tornet, this day will celebrate the agricultural world, local producers, and rural traditions in a friendly atmosphere. A highly anticipated event just a few kilometers from Annecy. The Peasant Festival returns after a … Learn more
The Haute-Savoie region concentrates some of the most renowned ski areas in the French Alps: Chamonix at the foot of Mont-Blanc, the vast Portes du Soleil network (Morzine, Avoriaz, Les Gets), and the Grand Massif (Flaine, Samoëns). Each resort has its own profile (altitude, size of the area, atmosphere, …) and the choice directly affects … Learn more
A sparkling turquoise lake, a spectacular peak, an isolated tent facing Mont Blanc: on Instagram, hiking in Haute-Savoie looks like a waking dream. But behind these perfect pictures lies a sometimes brutal reality. Poor preparation, underestimating risks, and inappropriate equipment: how does the quest for “likes” turn a nature outing into a real trap? The … Learn more
Living in Haute-Savoie means having Switzerland as your neighboring garden. In less than an hour’s drive from Annecy, Thonon-les-Bains, or Saint-Julien-en-Genevois, you change country, currency, and often language, without ever really leaving the Alps. Between Lake Geneva, the terraced vineyards, and the Valais peaks, French-speaking Switzerland and its surroundings offer a concentration of excursions accessible … Learn more
It is now official. Facing the increase of campervans, vans, and converted vehicles parking outside designated areas, the municipality of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has decided to tighten the rules. A municipal decree issued on August 5, 2026 now more strictly regulates their parking and particularly targets wild camping overnight stays. This measure aims to address the nuisances … Learn more
On Saturday, September 19, 2026, Le Grand-Bornand will host the traditional Saint-Maurice Agricultural Fair, one of the last major agro-pastoral events of the year in Haute-Savoie. A true institution in the Aravis valley, this event honors breeders, local producers, and the famous farm Reblochon. Cattle contests, producer markets, convivial meals, and entertainment will punctuate this … Learn more
Shoes are probably one of the most important pieces of hiking equipment. A perfectly suitable pair for an easy trail walk can become uncomfortable, even unsuitable, as soon as you venture onto rocky or wet terrain. Low, mid, or high shaft, sole stiffness, grip, waterproof membrane: here are the main criteria to know to choose … Learn more
Le Fayet will be celebrating this Saturday, August 22, 2026! Concert, acrobatics show, cycling activities, artisan market, vintage vehicles, and a grand raffle: the Fête du Fayet is back for a new edition under the sign of conviviality. Join us from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the center of Le Fayet, in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains. Le … Learn more
An asphalt ribbon winding between turquoise waters and alpine peaks: the tour of Lake Annecy enchants millions of visitors. But in the heart of July and August, the famous 42-kilometer loop sometimes becomes a logistical headache. Between two-wheel traffic jams, incivility, and summer overheating, here’s what truly awaits you if you set off unprepared. The … Learn more
On Friday, August 21 and Saturday, August 22, 2026, the Clairière des Lanches in Cervens will once again resonate with the sound of guitars. The Lunaris Festival returns for its third edition with eight bands, a creators’ market, activities for children, and a deliberately intimate atmosphere. An original musical event to discover between Lake Geneva … Learn more
Asking ChatGPT or an AI to map out your next mountain trek seems like a brilliant idea. However, on the ground, these algorithm-generated routes often turn out to be real traps. Underestimated distances, forbidden bivouacs, exposed passages forgotten: guides and rescuers are sounding the alarm in the face of increasing incidents. When AI goes off … 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
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 revive 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 competitions, parades, craft markets, and entertainment will enliven this festive day that honors the rural heritage of … 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 August 22 and 23, 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 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup – Les Gets Les Gets is once again preparing to become the world capital of … 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