The Ripaille Castle in Thonon-les-Bains: history, visit and practical information

Located at the gates of Thonon-les-Bains, just steps from Lake Geneva, the Château de Ripaille is one of the most emblematic historical monuments of Haute-Savoie. Former residence of the Dukes of Savoy, Carthusian monastery, then a residence transformed during the Belle Époque, Ripaille spans several centuries of history. Its estate, gardens, and vineyard make it … Learn more

The Eagles of Léman in Sciez: visit, shows, history, and practical information

Les aigles du léman

In Sciez, a few kilometers from Thonon-les-Bains and the shores of Lake Léman, Les Aigles du Léman offer a spectacular immersion into the world of birds of prey. Spread over nearly 8 hectares of nature, the park hosts several hundred birds and combines discovery, free-flight shows, education, and species protection. An outing particularly suited for … Learn more

This most beautiful village in France houses a remarkable garden that transports you to a timeless universe

Behind the flowering ramparts of Yvoire, one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, lies a place of astonishing poetry. In the heart of the medieval town, the Garden of Five Senses invites you to slow down and live an experience where scents, colors, and textures awaken all the senses. A timeless interlude that attracts … Learn more

What is this unique mineral desert in France offering one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Alps?

Désert de Platé - Flaine

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

This gem facing Mont-Blanc is one of the most beautiful remarkable gardens in France

Vu sur le mont Blanc depuis le jardin des cimes

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

Less known than Yvoire, this village on the shore of Lake Léman offers an unexpected fine sandy beach

plage sable fin excenevex

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

This magnificent natural site of Haute-Savoie besieged by tourists, many excesses annoy

surfréquentation au lac blanc à Chamonix

Facing the Mont-Blanc massif, this high-altitude lake offers one of the most spectacular panoramas of the French Alps. But its booming success now attracts thousands of visitors every summer and raises many concerns among mountain professionals. For a long time, this hike was seen as a reward for the most motivated walkers. You had to … Learn more

2 hours from Lyon, this impressive waterfall in Haute-Savoie is the ideal cool spot for this heatwave

La cascade d'Ardent

When temperatures soar in the city, some places become true natural refuges. In Haute-Savoie, the cascade d’Ardent is precisely one of these spectacular spots where people come to seek a bit of coolness in the heart of the mountains. Located near Morzine, this impressive waterfall attracts nature lovers, hikers, and alpine landscape enthusiasts every summer. … Learn more

We thought the Mer de Glace was overrated: here’s what we discovered on site

Le train du Montenvers en hiver

For a long time, the Mer de Glace was one of those places you hear about everywhere. Spectacular photos, legendary glacier, must-see excursion… Through superlatives, we had almost convinced ourselves that the experience would be disappointing compared to reality. A site too touristy, too crowded, too famous to truly surprise. Then we went there. And … Learn more

Discover the 10 Most Beautiful Hikes in Haute-Savoie for 2026

randonnée en Haute-Savoie cirque du fer a cheval

Haute-Savoie, an Alpine jewel with many facets, holds a wealth of trails promising escape. Between sparkling glaciers, suspended lakes, and limestone ridges, each mountain range reveals its character. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or a contemplative walker, let yourself be guided to the heart of ten unforgettable itineraries, tested and approved for the 2026 … Learn more

Cruise meal on Lake Annecy: a unique experience aboard the Libellule

repas croisière sur le libellule sur le lac d'Annecy

There are experiences that mark a stay… and others that truly transform it.The 2-hour cruise meal on Lake Annecy aboard the Libellule is clearly one of those you don’t forget. Whether at noon or in the evening, the experience is always guaranteed. Imagine: a refined meal, a lake with crystalline waters, mountains all around… and … Learn more

Visit Yvoire: What to Do in the Most Beautiful Medieval Village of Léman?

Yvoire, vue lac

Domain of picturesque alleys and a rich historical past, the fortified medieval village of Yvoire is a true gem of the Savoie Mont Blanc region. Strolling through its streets allows you to dive into the heart of the 14th century while enjoying cultural activities and preserved nature. You’ve understood, visiting Yvoire is a must for … Learn more

Mont-Blanc Tramway

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An original idea for a walk during your next holidays in Haute Savoie, the ascent to the Col de la Voza or Bellevue by the Mont-Blanc Tramway, one of the last rack railways in the high altitude of France. You will enjoy a panoramic view of the Bionnassaz glacier, the valleys of Chamonix and Les … Learn more

The garden of secrets: a paradise on earth

The Haute-Savoie, a department of the Rhône-Alpes region, is full of treasures to discover with family. It is quite naturally that one thinks of winter sports activities when mentioning the mountains. Beyond its numerous ski areas, hiking trails, panoramic views, wildlife, and flora, the Haute-Savoie region has a true gem: « the Secret Garden ». … Learn more

The gorges du Fier: a natural curiosity

Feeling like escaping, a complete change of scenery? Don’t hesitate any longer and choose the Haute-Savoie department for your upcoming holidays. The Haute-Savoie tourism site invites you to discover an exceptional site in the region: the Gorges du Fier . Located about 10 km from the city of Annecy, le Fier is one of the … Learn more

Discovery of Annecy and its urban area

You only know Annecy by reputation and you want to discover this city with unsuspected riches? The Tourisme Haute-Savoie website offers you some ideas for must-see activities and visits in Annecy. The city of Annecy is located on the edge of a large lake bearing its name in the French Alps about 50 km from … Learn more

Le Semnoz: a resort for the whole family

Le Semnoz

The key takeaway: Le Semnoz, the balcony of the Alps located 20 km from Annecy, offers a magical panorama of Mont Blanc and the lakes of Annecy and Bourget. An immediate escape for everyone, between hiking, winter sports, and moments of serenity. At 1699 meters altitude, where Mont Blanc sparkles on clear days. Living in … Learn more

Les Gets, traditional village

Located in the heart of the Portes du Soleil (14 Franco-Swiss resorts, 650 km of slopes), the village of Les Gets has managed to preserve its art of living and traditions, despite a significant Anglo-Saxon presence. La station de ski des Gets offers, against the backdrop of Mont Blanc, a ski area accessible to all … Learn more

10 must-see places to visit in Haute Savoie

Lieux incontournables de Haute-savoie

What if the most beautiful adventure of the year awaited you in the heart of the French Alps? Imagine a land where every valley, every lake, every peak tells an age-old story. Welcome to Haute-Savoie, among flowering villages, medieval castles, natural parks and breathtaking panoramas. Here, the Aiguille du Midi touches the sky, the Cirque … Learn more

The Village of Santa Claus

Le Hameau du Père Noël

Discover, throughout the year, the enchanting world where Santa Claus, his elves, Mrs. Claus and the famous Pacifier Attic live under the watchful eye of the Sandman. This magical place offers a variety of activities according to the seasons, while preserving the magical spirit of Christmas. It is in the heart of the Pays de … Learn more

The Montenvers train in winter, one of the most beautiful itineraries in France

Le train du Montenvers en hiver

The Montenvers train is an iconic attraction of Haute-Savoie, particularly in the Chamonix valley, offering a magical escape right in the heart of the snowy mountains. In winter, this tourist train becomes even more enchanting, transporting its passengers into a breathtaking winter wonderland. It is no coincidence that it was voted the 4th best winter … Learn more

The Alpine Botanical Garden La Jaÿsinia in Samoëns: a floral treasure in Haute-Savoie

Le jardin de la Jaysinia

A natural setting in the heart of the Alps Located at 700 meters above sea level, above the picturesque village of Samoëns, the Alpine botanical garden La Jaÿsinia stretches over 3.5 sloping hectares, in the heart of an exceptional mountain setting. This unique garden of its kind captivates from the first step: a peaceful atmosphere, … Learn more