Patrick 
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
Increasingly popular with hikers, filtered water bottles help reduce the weight of the backpack while limiting the purchase of plastic bottles. But these accessories do not make all waters drinkable and their effectiveness largely depends on how they are used. Here is everything you need to know before filling your bottle in a mountain stream … Learn more
On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, the Abbaye d’Aulps in Saint-Jean-d’Aulps is offering a new edition of L’Abbaye sous les étoiles, an event combining astronomy, heritage, and the discovery of the night sky. Between planetarium sessions and outdoor star gazing, this evening promises a unique experience for the whole family. In the exceptional setting of the … Learn more
For this weekend of August 1st and 2nd, 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 The Blue Grass Festival – La Roche sur Foron Bluegrass in La Roche celebrates its 20th edition from July 29 … Learn more
Each summer, the beaches of Lake Geneva attract thousands of swimmers looking to enjoy its waters and exceptional setting. However, after several episodes of heatwaves, storms, or localized pollution, one question frequently arises: is swimming still safe? The latest controls show a generally very reassuring situation, but some precautions remain essential before jumping into the … Learn more
The Lake Festival makes its grand return this Saturday, August 1, 2026 in Annecy. Tens of thousands of spectators are expected to attend the pyrotechnic show “The Soul of the World”. But in a context of marked drought and high fire risk, the City calls on everyone to exercise the utmost caution, especially on the … Learn more
On Saturday, August 1, 2026, Geneva will celebrate the Swiss National Day in a friendly and festive atmosphere. Less than an hour’s drive from Haute-Savoie, La Grange Park will host a full day of free activities combining Swiss traditions, concerts, shows, and family activities. A great outing idea to enjoy the national holiday of our … 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
Last updated: 07/27/2026 The flea market and yard sale season are in full swing in our department, as everywhere in France. Here is an overview of the yard sales, flea markets, wardrobe clear-outs, and fairs organized in August 2026 in Haute-Savoie. Event calendar for August 2026 Saturday, August 1 Sunday, August 2 Saturday, August 8 … Learn more
With more than 100,000 French cross-border workers regularly crossing the border to work in Switzerland, the « Swiss salary, French housing » model continues to attract. However, between the rising cost of real estate in Haute-Savoie, transportation expenses, and new teleworking rules, the question deserves to be asked: is being a cross-border worker still as … Learn more
From Monday, August 24 to Sunday, August 30, 2026, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc will once again become the world capital of trail running on the occasion of the 23rd edition of the HOKA UTMB Mont-Blanc. For one week, more than 10,000 runners from all over the world will gather at the foot of Mont-Blanc to take part in … Learn more
From August 12 to 15, 2026, the Chamonix valley will come alive to the rhythm of the Fête des Guides, one of the most emblematic summer events in Haute-Savoie. Created over a century ago, this event pays tribute to the women and men who have shaped the history of mountaineering while offering numerous activities for … 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
With the heat and dryness persisting in Haute-Savoie, the risk of fire outbreaks remains high in many areas. The prefecture calls on residents, hikers, and holidaymakers to be extra vigilant and reminds them of the rules to follow to prevent any fire, especially in the mountains and near natural areas. Increased vigilance during the summer … 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
The musical summer officially begins in Évian-les-Bains. This Friday, July 24, the Summer Stages kick off their 2026 edition with a highly anticipated concert by Cœur de Pirate. Free and outdoors, this first event promises to attract a large audience on the shores of Lake Geneva. A first concert with one of the great voices … Learn more
For the weekend of July 25 and 26, 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 Plein Feux Festival – Bonneville Pleins Feux Festival is one of the most popular summer events in Haute-Savoie, taking place … Learn more
Each summer, Lake Annecy attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors who come to enjoy its turquoise waters and exceptional setting. But this record popularity also leads to traffic jams, saturated parking lots, crowded beaches, and increasing pressure on the neighboring municipalities. Faced with this situation, several local authorities are now considering strong measures to limit … Learn more
Each summer, the high pastures of Haute-Savoie welcome back their herds, their summer chalets, and their famous farmhouse cheeses. But behind this iconic image of the mountains, breeders today have to deal with an increasingly worrying reality: climate change is profoundly transforming pastoral practices that are sometimes centuries old. Summer pastures that no longer resemble … Learn more
Just minutes from the shores of Lake Geneva, this accessible loop allows you to discover a more intimate side of the Chablais. Between mountain hamlets, natural viewpoints, and spectacular panoramas over the largest lake in Western Europe, this route is ideal for a family outing or a half-day in the fresh air. A walk between … Learn more
Every summer, hiking trails attract thousands of enthusiasts in Haute-Savoie and the French mountain ranges. However, a poorly planned outing can quickly turn into a nightmare. Changing weather, dehydration, loss of orientation, or simply overestimating one’s abilities: most accidents could be avoided thanks to some essential habits before departure. Preparation begins long before putting on … 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
Sunday, July 19, Haute-Savoie will be one of the main stages of the Tour de France 2026. Between the spectacular col de la Croisette, the formidable slopes of the Salève, and the explosive finish at the Plateau de Solaison, several locations promise an exceptional show. Here is where to settle to fully enjoy the passage … Learn more
Which hiker has never hesitated between two backpack sizes in front of a store aisle or an online shop? In 2026, as hiking and trekking are booming in France and Europe, choosing the right backpack size is of strategic importance. A poorly adapted selection promises a journey ruined by pain, regrets at every climb, or, … Learn more
Leaving the city, teleworking facing the peaks, offering a better living environment for one’s family, or preparing for retirement… More and more French people are considering settling in Haute-Savoie. But not all municipalities meet the same expectations. Between economic dynamism, proximity to ski resorts, access to services, and real estate costs, here are four destinations … Learn more
On Sunday, August 2, 2026, Grand-Bornand Chinaillon will come alive to the rhythm of one of the oldest traditional festivals in Haute-Savoie. A genuine tribute to the pastoral world, the Fête de l’Alpage will bring together residents, vacationers, and lovers of traditions around a program full of activities, demonstrations, and folk performances. An unmissable event … Learn more
The Tour de France returns to Haute-Savoie and Thonon-les-Bains is preparing to experience one of the highlights of the 2026 edition. While the finish of the time trial between Évian-les-Bains and Thonon promises an exceptional spectacle on Tuesday, July 21, it will also result in significant traffic and parking restrictions for several days. Residents, shopkeepers, … Learn more
With thousands of kilometers of marked trails, the mountain offers routes for all levels. Yet, every summer, many accidents occur because hikers overestimate their abilities or underestimate the difficulty of a route. Choosing your hike well according to your physical condition, without forgetting the importance of choosing the right shoes, is one of the most … Learn more
The official school holiday calendar 2026-2027 is now known. For winter sports enthusiasts, it is the perfect time to plan a trip to Haute-Savoie. Among the highly sought-after resorts such as Chamonix, La Clusaz, Les Gets, Avoriaz, or Le Grand-Bornand, booking several months in advance often allows you to enjoy the best accommodations and more … Learn more
The Rock’n Poche Festival returns to Habère-Poche on Friday, July 31 and Saturday, August 1, 2026 for its 34th edition. Renowned for its friendly atmosphere, eclectic lineup, and unique setting at the foot of the alpine pastures of the Vallée Verte, this event has become one of the most anticipated contemporary music festivals of the … Learn more
Hardly had July begun, the glaciers of the Mont-Blanc massif already showed a face usually observed in August. After a winter with little snowfall and a June marked by several episodes of intense heat, glaciologists are sounding the alarm: the melting season has taken several weeks ahead. A situation that worries both scientists and mountain … Learn more
One of the most iconic summer events in Haute-Savoie will make its grand return on Sunday, August 9, 2026. In La Clusaz, the Reblochon and Craft Festival promises a day dedicated to Savoyard traditions, local know-how, and conviviality. Between demonstrations, period costumes, craftsmanship, and tastings, the event attracts several thousand visitors each year. A day … 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
The trails of Haute-Savoie offer an exceptional playground for mountain bike enthusiasts. From the Portes du Soleil bike parks to the panoramic routes of the Grand Massif, passing through the paths around Lake Annecy or Chamonix, the possibilities are immense. But the mountain remains a demanding environment where an outing must be carefully prepared. Here … Learn more
Every summer, the mountain lakes attract thousands of visitors seeking freshness. Their crystal-clear water and spectacular landscapes make you want to take a dip after a hike or during a hot day. Yet, behind this idyllic image lies a danger often underestimated: cold water shock. Even the most experienced swimmers are not safe. Water that … Learn more
Each summer, Chinaillon becomes the stage for one of the most emblematic events of the Aravis. The Fête de l’Alpage returns to Grand-Bornand on August 2, 2026 for a day entirely dedicated to pastoralism, Savoyard traditions, and mountain life. Organized in the heart of the alpine pastures, this event attracts several thousand visitors each year … Learn more
For this weekend of July 11 and 12, 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 Morzine-Avoriaz Harley Days The Morzine Harley Days return to transform the resort into the true European capital of Harley-Davidson … Learn more
Long considered the essential activity of mountain vacations, hiking is now seeing its dominance wane. While the trails remain heavily frequented, visitors are now seeking a much more varied experience. Mountain biking, summer sledding, giant zip lines, white-water sports, or family activities: mountain resorts are adapting their offerings to meet these new expectations. The mountain … Learn more
From July 25 to 30, 2026, Grand-Bornand becomes the must-attend event for drawing enthusiasts with the fifth edition of the Mountain Sketch Meetings. For six days, established artists, urban sketchers, beginners, and families are invited to take out their sketchbooks to capture the Alpine landscapes in a friendly atmosphere. Six days to draw the mountain … 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