Ah, Haute-Savoie… that little corner of paradise where the mountains embrace the sky and where the magic of Christmas blends with the pure Alpine air. Whether you are a holidaymaker or a Savoyard at heart, here is a magical guide to fully enjoy the Christmas holidays 2024. Between snowy landscapes, local traditions, and sparkling festivities, there is something for every taste… and every ski outfit!
1. Slide into the atmosphere of the ski resorts
Christmas in Haute-Savoie is above all the call of the slopes. Areas like Chamonix, Megève or Avoriaz await you with snow-covered fir trees worthy of a postcard. For thrill-seekers, try snowboarding or even snow paragliding (well, it’s not for the faint-hearted!).
And if you prefer something calmer, opt for a snowshoe hike to discover pristine landscapes. Don’t forget to end your day with a mulled wine on the terrace, preferably under a string of lights.
2. Dive into the Christmas markets
The Haute-Savoie Christmas markets are gems of authenticity and friendliness. The one in Annecy, by the lake, is unmissable with its illuminated chalets, artisanal products, and fairy-tale atmosphere. In Thonon-les-Bains, the Christmas village offers activities for young and old, while in La Clusaz, the market is spiced with a charming mountain air. Bring a warm scarf, as the tasting of tartiflette and churros waits for no one!
Christmas Market of Thonon-les-Bains
The Thonon Christmas market, also called “Les Féeriques“, is one of the largest and most magical in Haute-Savoie. This market offers about fifty chalets where you can discover artisanal products, decorations, and regional treats. A natural ice rink and activities such as the enchanted forest and Santa Claus’s House make this market an unmissable family event. From 11/28/2024 to 01/05/2025, every day.
Christmas Market of Évian-les-Bains
In Évian-les-Bains, you will find the Christmas market in the form of the “Fabuleux Village” or “La légende des Flottins“, a unique event where nothing is sold but everything is imagined. This magical village, created in 2007, offers original creations, a playful and enchanted universe that will delight young and old. Performances, strolls, and workshops are organized throughout the event.
For this end of year 2024, the 18th edition of the fabulous village will take place from December 13, 2024 to January 4, 2025.
Christmas Market of Annecy – Christmas of the Alps
The Christmas market of Annecy, also called “Noël des Alpes“, is one of the most emblematic. It extends over several neighborhoods of the city: from the lake to the mountain through the historic center. You can discover chalets offering local and artisanal products, as well as a gourmet area with typical dishes such as fondue and spit-roast pig, and of course many activities, including Santa Claus’s village to delight the children.
It will be held every day from 11/23/2024 to 01/04/2025.
From Sunday to Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Fridays, Saturdays, and school holidays, from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Christmas Market of Chamonix
Chamonix is not left behind for its traditional Christmas market. Come discover the many activities of the Chamonix Christmas Village offered by the tourist office. For the happiness of all, young and old, the Christmas market is set up every year in the center of Chamonix. This Christmas market will be held from December 18, 2024 to January 3, 2025, every day from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
3. Fill up on Savoyard traditions
Did you know that the shepherds of Haute-Savoie still play Christmas carols on Alpine horns? In Samoëns, the living nativity scene attracts many visitors each year with its traditional costumes and faithfully recreated scenes. Bonneville, for its part, organizes a luminous parade on the evening of December 24, accompanied by local choir songs. In La Roche-sur-Foron, don’t miss the “Lantern Festival” where inhabitants light up the village with handcrafted lanterns, turning every alley into a fairy-tale painting. And many other local activities…
4. Try unusual activities
Want to get off the beaten path? Why not try ice diving in Lake Montriond, near Morzine? This unique activity promises thrills and unforgettable memories beneath the ice.
If you prefer to stay on the surface, embark on a dog sled ride in Samoëns, a gentle and immersive experience in the heart of snowy nature. Discover where to take a dog sled ride in Haute-Savoie.
For speed enthusiasts, try the night sled run on the Perrères slope in Les Gets. Finally, romantics won’t resist a carriage ride in Megève, accompanied by a warm blanket and the magic of a starry sky.
5. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style
To end the year with flair, nothing beats a gourmet New Year’s Eve in Haute-Savoie. Here are some suggestions for an exceptional meal:
- La Table de l’Alpaga in Megève: This starred restaurant offers refined cuisine highlighting local products. Address: 66 Allée des Marmousets, 74120 Megève. Phone: +33 4 50 91 48 70.
- Le Sérac in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains: In a chic and warm setting, discover creative cuisine enhanced by mountain flavors. Address: 22 Rue de la Comtesse, 74170 Saint-Gervais-les-Bains. Phone: +33 4 50 93 11 01.
- L’Esquisse in Annecy: Treat yourself to a culinary experience just steps from the lake with an inventive menu and exceptional food and wine pairings. Address: 21 Rue Royale, 74000 Annecy. Phone: +33 4 50 51 18 46.
- La Bouitte in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville: Although just outside Haute-Savoie, this triple-starred restaurant offers alpine cuisine of rare elegance. Address: Hameau de Saint-Marcel, 73440 Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. Phone: +33 4 79 08 96 77.
- Le 5 in Thonon-les-Bains: A modern address with a breathtaking view of Lake Léman and a special New Year’s Eve menu to delight your taste buds. Address: Port de Rives, 74200 Thonon-les-Bains. Phone: +33 4 50 71 14 64.
After dinner, why not extend the party? Some resorts like La Clusaz or Morzine organize nighttime activities and spectacular fireworks. A way to welcome the new year with wonder!
6. Relax in spas and thermal baths
After so many adventures, nothing beats a day of relaxation. Head to the spas of Évian or Saint-Gervais for a wellness break between snowball fights. Outdoor hot bath with a view of Mont Blanc? Yes, it’s just as magical as it looks.
Thermal baths, hot baths, massages… Discover where to relax in Haute-Savoie
7. Think of children (and the big kids!)
With their open-air ice rinks, like the one in Megève, their puppet shows in Annecy, and their decoration-making workshops in Thonon-les-Bains, little vacationers won’t risk getting bored. Head to Combloux for an authentic atmosphere or to Les Gets for family activities that smell like hot chocolate and shortbread cookies.
And above all, don’t miss the unmissable Pestacles du père Noël in La Clusaz, the largest street arts festival for families.
And why not take advantage of your holidays in Haute-Savoie to visit Santa Claus at his home, in the Santa Claus Castle of Menthon! Until January 4, 2025, the Castle of Menthon-Saint-Bernard, overlooking the Lake Annecy, becomes The Castle of Santa Claus! With family or friends, young or old, let yourself be transported into an enchanted world where childhood memories come to life… More information, click here.
In short, an unforgettable Christmas in Haute-Savoie!
Whether you came seeking adventure, magic, or simply a peaceful moment with family, Haute-Savoie will meet your expectations. So, grab your hats, mittens, and camera: the Christmas holidays 2024 promise to be as bright as a tree decorated with electric garlands… but with a much better view!
