The Haute-Savoie is not limited to Annecy or Chamonix. By venturing off the usual routes, you discover villages where time seems to have stopped, between pastoral life, spectacular landscapes, and preserved heritage. Here are six distinctive destinations to explore, both summer and winter.
1. Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval – A magnificent natural amphitheater
Ranked among the « Most Beautiful Villages of France », Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval is an alpine gem framed by dizzying cliffs forming an impressive natural cirque. The sound of waterfalls, the freshness of beech forests, and the scent of alpine grass create an atmosphere both peaceful and wild. The village, with its stone houses and slate roofs, has preserved its authenticity.
➤ Le Bout du Monde: the iconic hike
An easy path leads to the « End of the World », a protrusion in the glacial cirque surrounded by dozens of waterfalls. The walk is family-friendly and offers a spectacular panorama.
➤ The Abbey of Sixt
Former Benedictine priory founded in the 12th century, the Abbey of Sixt is one of the oldest religious monuments in the valley. Its Romanesque architecture and history deserve a peaceful stop.
To read: The Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval: natural gem of Haute-Savoie
2. Yvoire – The flowered fortress of Léman
A true medieval fairytale setting, Yvoire is an ancient fortified city from the 13th century proudly overlooking the calm waters of Lake Léman. Behind its walls, you stroll through flowered lanes where artisans and small restaurants offer local products.
➤ The Garden of Five Senses
Inspired by medieval gardens, this place offers an immersive experience where every sense is engaged: scents, textures, sounds, flavors… It is a true botanical and sensory labyrinth.
To read: The Garden of Five Senses
➤ The stroll on the harbor
The small port of Yvoire, with its colorful boats and views of the Swiss Alps, is perfect for a romantic break at sunset or a cruise on the lake.
3. Viuz-en-Sallaz – The balcony of Mont Blanc
Perched between plain and mountain, Viuz-en-Sallaz offers spectacular views of Mont Blanc and the ridges of Chablais. This discreet village shelters a rich built heritage, local legends, and a restful calm.
➤ Mount Vouan and its legends
This wooded massif is known for its old millstone quarries and mysterious caves. Walks allow exploring these places full of history and mystery.
➤ The peasant museum
Located in a traditional farmhouse, this museum depicts rural Savoyard life through tools, everyday objects, and recreated life scenes. A dive into past daily life.
4. Nancy-sur-Cluses – The raw mountain soul
A few bends from Cluses, Nancy-sur-Cluses reveals a village suspended in time. Alpine chalets, silence of the heights, and breathtaking panoramas make this place a true haven.
➤ The Romme Pass
This small plateau above the village is a starting point for magnificent hikes with views over the Arve valley and the Bargy and Aravis ranges. In winter, it is a peaceful snowshoeing site.
➤ The Heritage Trail
A marked circuit allows discovering local traditions, old mazots, fountains, and bread ovens. Informative panels embellish the route and tell the story of the places.
5. Les Lindarets – The village where goats are queens
In summer, this hamlet of Montriond becomes a living spectacle where goats roam freely among visitors. The old chalets and cheese dairies add to the authentic charm.
➤ The Ardent Waterfall
A few minutes’ walk away, this impressive waterfall flows between fir trees. Accessible and little frequented, it offers a refreshing stop in the middle of nature.
➤ Farmstead cheeses directly
Several producers settled in the village chalets offer reblochon, tomme, and farm products to taste on site or take away. A gourmet immersion in alpine tradition.
6. Cordon – The secret balcony of Mont Blanc
Cordon overlooks the valley with an exceptional view of the Mont Blanc massif. This peaceful village is one of the best-kept secrets around Sallanches.
➤ The Baroque Church Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption
Considered one of the most beautiful Baroque churches of Savoy, it houses magnificently decorated altarpieces, visible during guided tours.
➤ The nature discovery trail
An easy trail allows discovering alpine flora, old shepherd huts, and panoramas on the Mont Blanc range. Perfect for a contemplative walk at the rhythm of the seasons.
