Nestled in the heart of a lush valley, between alpine meadows and deep forests, Abondance is one of those villages you sometimes pass through without stopping… mistakenly. Far from the crowds of major resorts, this discreet gem of Haute-Savoie cultivates the art of mountain living, blending centuries-old heritage, untouched nature, and living traditions.
A well-kept secret. And perhaps the most authentic village in all of Chablais.
A postcard-perfect setting, without the crowds
Located just 30 minutes from Évian-les-Bains and steps from the Swiss border, Abondance opens onto a magical landscape, dominated by the Dents du Midi and the peaks of Mont de Grange. Here, no queues or overcrowded parking lots, but a peaceful and warm alpine atmosphere.
Wooden houses stand alongside centuries-old farms, balconies overflow with geraniums, and the village’s pace remains suspended to the rhythm of the seasons.
A name to make you drool
It’s hard to talk about Abondance without mentioning its eponymous cheese, a famous AOP with a subtle and fruity taste. The village is home to the Maison du Fromage Abondance, a lively place where you can discover the entire production process, from milking the cows to cave aging.
You learn that the milk comes from three mountain breeds, that the alpine pastures shape the flavors… and naturally finish with an unforgettable tasting facing the mountains.
A remarkable religious heritage
At the heart of the village stands a often overlooked treasure: the Abbey of Abondance, a 14th-century former monastery with Savoyard Gothic architecture. Its cloister, adorned with beautifully preserved medieval frescoes, transports you back several centuries.
A place both spiritual and artistic, peaceful and powerful, well worth a visit on its own.
A starting point for nature
Abondance is also an ideal playground for nature lovers. Summer or winter, its trails lead to mountain lakes, panoramic ridges, and little-visited nature reserves.
In summer:
- Walks to the Lac des Plagnes
- Hikes on Mont de Grange or towards Pointe d’Ardens
- Botanical or pastoral outings with a guide
In winter:
- Alpine skiing on the Essert ski area
- Snowshoeing and ski touring in pristine landscapes
- Strolling through the old village under the snow, hot chocolate in hand
A personal impression
I discovered Abondance on an autumn morning. The leaves were turning russet, mist clung to the mountain slopes, and the bell tower rang softly. I walked to the edge of the stream, tasted a piece of aged Abondance cheese, and spoke with a passionate cheesemaker. I had this rare feeling: that of having found a place that doesn’t just pretend to be mountain, but truly is, deeply, naturally, sincerely.
Why you’ll love Abondance
- For its calm, away from well-trodden paths
- For its unique religious and cheesemaking heritage
- For the raw beauty of its landscapes
- For the sincere welcome of its inhabitants
- And because, sometimes, the most magical places are those no one talks about (yet)
