Nested at the foot of Mont Blanc, in the Arve valley, Saint-Gervais-les-Bains is an ideal summer destination: nature, well-being, thrills and gastronomy come together for an unforgettable stay. Whether you are passing through the Mont Blanc massif or staying a few days in a hotel in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, discover some of the activities awaiting you.
1. Relaxing in the historic thermal baths
The Saint-Gervais thermal baths, renowned for more than two centuries, offer a unique relaxation experience thanks to naturally warm thermal water rich in minerals. The large thermal park features steam baths, saunas, sensory areas and wellness trails, all in a soothing natural environment.
To read: Thermal baths, hot baths, massages… Where to relax in Haute-Savoie
2. Enjoying the thermal park and its activities
The Thermal Park is a peaceful walking area that also hosts activities for the whole family. You will find a small tourist train, a climbing rock, a tree-top adventure course and even a via ferrata, all in a green setting ideal for relaxation and discovery.
3. Hiking, mountain biking and walks around the lakes
With over 180 km of marked trails, Saint-Gervais is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers. Forests, alpine pastures, waterfalls and spectacular views of Mont Blanc punctuate the routes. Lakes such as Joux or Vivier offer refreshing spots perfect for a picnic or a moment of calm in the heart of nature.
4. The Mont Blanc Tramway and high-altitude shelters
Board the Mont Blanc Tramway, one of the last rack railway trains in France, to reach the Nid d’Aigle at over 2,300 meters altitude. From there, several shelters allow you to extend the experience at altitude: the Nid d’Aigle Refuge or the Miage Refuge, accessible on foot from the village.
5. Sports and outdoor activities
For thrill-seekers, Saint-Gervais offers a multitude of activities: canyoning, rafting, climbing, paragliding, or downhill mountain biking. The resort also features a bike park, a pumptrack, a mini golf and a skate park to satisfy both the young and the old.
6. Local flavors and gourmet discoveries
The region is a true paradise for gourmets. Traditional farms, guest tables, cheesemakers and restaurants offer local specialties such as tartiflette, fondue or Savoyard cured meats. Some hiking routes even allow combining walking and tasting thanks to gourmet stops in the alpine pastures.
7. Culture and heritage
The hamlet of Saint-Nicolas-de-Véroce is worth a visit for its exceptional baroque church. Many cultural events, concerts and exhibitions also mark the summer season in Saint-Gervais. The local heritage, blending traditional architecture and sacred art, can be discovered both in the villages and during guided tours.
8. Discovering the Chamonix valley
From Saint-Gervais, it is easy to reach the famous Chamonix valley, less than 30 minutes by car. This proximity allows enriching your stay with day trips to one of the highest Alpine tourism sites. In Chamonix, you can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car to admire the 3,842 meters of rock and ice, or board the Montenvers train to access the Mer de Glace.
The valley is also a major starting point for hikers and mountaineers from around the world. In summer, the lively streets of Chamonix, its terraces, shops and museums offer a great variety of activities for all audiences. It is the ideal getaway to add a grandiose touch to your stay in Saint-Gervais.
In brief: a complete stay in Saint-Gervais
| Theme | Recommended activities |
|---|---|
| Well-being and relaxation | Thermal baths, spa, walks in the thermal park |
| Nature and sport | Hiking, mountain biking, via ferrata, paragliding |
| Alpine panoramas | Mont Blanc Tramway, refuges, glaciers, Chamonix valley |
| Adventure and thrills | Whitewater sports, canyoning, climbing |
| Local gastronomy | Local products, alpine pasture picnics, Savoyard restaurants |
| Culture and heritage | Baroque church, summer events, guided tours |
Practical advice
- Ideal period: from June to September to enjoy mild weather and many summer activities.
- Access: Fayet station allows easy train access to Saint-Gervais. And for several months now, the valley resident has linked Fayet to the town of Saint-Gervais Mont-Blanc in a few minutes. On site, the car is useful for exploring the surroundings, but many activities are accessible on foot or by ski lifts.
- Audience: families, couples, groups of friends or solo travelers – everyone finds their place.
Where to stay in Saint Gervais?
Saint‑Gervais-les-Bains offers a wide range of accommodations for all profiles: cozy hotels, traditional chalets, holiday rentals or modern residences. You will find both simple, affordable establishments and comfortable hotels with spas or panoramic views, ideal for couples, families or travelers seeking relaxation.
Among the addresses we particularly appreciated, the Hôtel La Féline Blanche stands out for its unique charm: located in the heart of the village, in an 1880 building renovated in 2023, this 3-star hotel offers ten cozy rooms blending wood, linen, wool and organic fabrics. The hotel is pet friendly & adults only. Breakfast included with fresh, homemade products from the region. Intimate, friendly and refined, it is an excellent option for a romantic stay or a rejuvenating getaway.
Between well-being, mountain, culture and gourmet pleasures, Saint-Gervais-les-Bains offers a concentration of Haute-Savoie in the open air. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, this authentic destination will charm you throughout the summer.
Photo source: Saint Gervais les Bains Tourist Office
