Discover the many activities and experiences to enjoy in Haute-Savoie without putting on skis.
The mountains are not exclusively reserved for sliding enthusiasts. In Haute-Savoie, many options are available to those who wish to enjoy the snowy landscapes in a different way. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural discoveries, here is a list of activities suited for non-skiers.
Some activity ideas to do in winter when you don’t ski
1. Snowshoe walks: immersion in nature
If you like walking and enjoying the serenity of the mountains, snowshoe hikes are ideal. Many marked trails allow you to explore snow-covered forests and admire exceptional panoramas. Some resorts, like La Clusaz or Les Contamines, even offer guided outings to discover winter wildlife and flora.
Tip : Opt for a nighttime hike with a headlamp, often accompanied by a Savoyard meal in a mountain chalet.
2. Relaxation in spas and thermal centers
For a cocooning day, head to the spas and thermal centers in the region. Resorts like Megève or Saint-Gervais Mont-Blanc have luxurious spas where you can enjoy massages, jacuzzis, and other wellness treatments. Saint-Gervais is also renowned for its thermal baths, where the benefits of thermal waters are perfect for relaxing after a day outdoors.
Must-try : Experience outdoor Nordic baths, a relaxing experience with a view of the mountains.
3. Dog sled walks: an unforgettable experience
Dive into the world of polar explorers with a dog sled ride. This activity, offered in several resorts like Morzine or Les Gets, allows you to cross snow-covered landscapes in complete tranquility, guided by experienced mushers. For an even more immersive experience, some packages include an introduction to sled driving.
Tip : Book your dog sled ride very early, as demand is very high.
4. Discovering local heritage
Haute-Savoie is full of cultural and historical treasures to explore. Go discover charming villages like Samoëns or Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, where you can visit baroque churches, traditional farms, or local museums. In Annecy, enjoy winter markets and the old town while admiring the lake and surrounding mountains. Also discover the medieval village of Yvoire on the shores of Lake Geneva.
5. Thrills for adventure lovers
Even without skiing, you can get your adrenaline pumping with activities like:
- Paragliding : Treat yourself to a flight over the mountains to admire snowy peaks from a unique perspective. Chamonix and the Portes du Soleil are popular places for this activity.
- Rail sledding : Some resorts, like Les Carroz, offer specially designed tracks for sledding, a fun activity for both young and old.
- Fatbiking on snow : Try this mountain bike equipped with wide tires to ride on snowy trails, an increasingly popular activity.
6. Gourmet pleasures: Savoyard gastronomy
A stay in Haute-Savoie would not be complete without an immersion in local gastronomy. After a day outdoors, warm up with a typical dish such as fondue, raclette, or tartiflette. Many resort restaurants offer these dishes in warm and friendly settings.
To try: Participate in a cooking workshop to learn how to prepare Savoyard specialties.
7. Unusual activities for memorable memories
For out-of-the-ordinary experiences, try:
- Ski-joëring : An equestrian activity where you are pulled by a horse on skis.
- Ice diving : In places like Lake Montriond, dive under a layer of ice for a unique aquatic adventure.
- Igloos : Build your own igloo during a workshop or spend a night in an unusual accommodation.
8. Festive or quiet après-ski
Non-skiers can also enjoy après-ski with various events offered in the resorts: musical evenings, craft markets, or outdoor cinema sessions. For a quieter atmosphere, settle near a fireplace with a good book or go stargazing under a clear sky.
9. Refuge stay: a night at the summit
To live an authentic experience, spend a night in a mountain refuge. These accommodations offer a very rustic but warm setting, often located in isolated places with breathtaking mountain views. In winter, it’s an opportunity to live close to nature, sometimes with snowshoe hikes to reach the refuge.
Info : Be aware, the majority of refuges are closed in winter, but some offer a winter section open year-round, to be used in total autonomy. Guaranteed change of scenery!
The mountains, a destination for everyone
In Haute-Savoie, non-skiers will never be bored. Between sports activities, cultural discoveries, moments of relaxation, and unusual experiences, everyone can find happiness in this enchanting environment. So don’t wait any longer to discover all the region’s riches beyond the ski slopes!
