Sallanches, in the heart of Mont-Blanc
Located in Haute-Savoie, Sallanches is a charming town at the foot of the Mont-Blanc massif, offering spectacular landscapes and a pleasant living environment. It is popular for its proximity to major ski resorts and its numerous outdoor activities. Sallanches is an ideal starting point to discover the Alps while enjoying a rich cultural heritage and a warm welcome.
Summary
1. Geographical and demographic situation
2. History and heritage
3. Cultural facilities
4. Cultural events
5. Must-see places to visit
6. Best-rated hotels
7. Some essential restaurants
8. Sports in Sallanches
9. Unusual activities
10. School groups
11. Sallanches markets
12. Public transport
13. Town hall
14. Skiing nearby
Geographical and demographic situation of Sallanches
Sallanches is located in the Arve valley, in Haute-Savoie, about 20 kilometers from Chamonix and 50 kilometers from Geneva. The town, surrounded by mountains, enjoys a breathtaking view of Mont-Blanc. It is a true Alpine crossroads with a population of approximately 16,000 inhabitants. This privileged geographical location makes it a strategic place for mountain enthusiasts, both in summer and winter.
History and heritage of the town
Founded in the Middle Ages, Sallanches has always been a commercial and strategic crossroads. The town has been marked by several fires over the centuries, but it has managed to rebuild and preserve its heritage. The Pont de Saint-Martin and the Saint-Jacques Church, with its 18th-century Baroque architecture, are two iconic monuments of the town. The church also houses treasures of sacred art, part of Sallanches’ rich religious heritage.
Cultural facilities
The Mont-Blanc Cinema
A modern cinema offering a diverse program, ranging from blockbusters to auteur films.
The Ange Abrate Media Library
Located in the town center, this media library offers a wide selection of books, DVDs, and digital media, as well as regular activities for children and adults.
The Agora Cultural Space
This theater hosts plays, concerts, and conferences throughout the year.
Cultural events
Sallanches is a lively town that offers a variety of cultural events throughout the year:
- The Guides’ Festival: A traditional celebration honoring mountain guides.
- The Sallanches Carnival: A colorful parade through the town’s streets every spring.
- Montagn’Arts Festival: An event dedicated to art and culture, combining exhibitions and performances.
- The Christmas Market: A magical atmosphere with chalets offering crafts and local specialties.
- Heritage Days: Guided tours to discover the town’s rich heritage.
Must-see places to visit in town or nearby
The Lake of Ilettes
A perfect relaxation spot for a walk or picnic, with swimming areas and water activities. Composed of 3 lakes, this leisure base of Ilettes welcomes you for all your activities: fishing, swimming and paddleboarding, windsurfing, strolling and relaxing, fitness trail, volleyball court, ping-pong table…
The Arpenaz Waterfall
A magnificent waterfall 270 m high, located a few kilometers from the town, offering an impressive natural spectacle. This magnificent waterfall overlooks the hamlet of Luzier, and is easily seen from the highway or the main road. Amenities include free parking, picnic areas, and starting points for hiking and mountain biking trails.
Saint-Jacques Church
A masterpiece of Baroque art with its richly decorated interior. It is one of the main religious buildings in the region. It has been classified as a Historical Monument since 1974 and is open for free visits.
The Pont de Saint-Martin
A picturesque medieval bridge crossing the Arve river, offering splendid views of the valley.
The Saint-Gervais Thermal Baths
Located 15 km from Sallanches, these thermal baths offer thermal treatments and a wellness area, perfect for a day of relaxation. Situated in the heart of the Saint-Gervais Mont-Blanc thermal park, the Saint-Gervais Mont-Blanc baths provide an exceptional natural setting, conducive to relaxation and regeneration of body and mind.
See other must-see places to visit in Haute-Savoie
Best-rated hotels in Sallanches
Sallanches offers a range of comfortable hotels for all budgets. Here are five of the most recommended hotels:
Ibis Styles Sallanches Pays du Mont-Blanc
A modern hotel offering comfortable rooms and breakfast included, close to the town’s main attractions.
Address: 2055 Avenue de Genève, 74700 Sallanches
Phone: +33 4 50 58 91 00
Hotel du Mont-Blanc
A family hotel with typical Savoyard charm, ideal for couples or family stays.
Address: 300 Rue du Rosay, 74700 Sallanches
Phone: +33 4 50 58 00 00
Le Cerf Amoureux
A charming spa hotel located a few kilometers from town, with breathtaking views of Mont-Blanc.
Address: 118 Route de Barthoud, 74700 Sallanches
Phone: +33 4 50 58 32 72
Le Gai Soleil
A welcoming establishment offering quality service and a renowned restaurant.
Address: 20 Route de Champame, 74700 Sallanches
Phone: +33 4 50 58 88 88
Le Relais du Mont-Blanc
A comfortable hotel with rooms decorated in a mountain style, close to the town center.
Address: 285 Rue Pellissier, 74700 Sallanches
Phone: +33 4 50 58 70 70
Some essential restaurants in Sallanches
Sallanches offers culinary diversity, from traditional Savoyard dishes to world flavors.
Le Refuge
A Savoyard restaurant offering local specialties such as fondue and raclette.
Price range: €€
Address: 15 Rue du Mont-Blanc, 74700 Sallanches
Phone: +33 4 50 58 77 71
La Table d’Arbois
A gastronomic restaurant with inventive and refined cuisine.
Price range: €€€
Address: 45 Avenue de Genève, 74700 Sallanches
Phone: +33 4 50 58 45 12
La Brasserie de l’Arve
A friendly brasserie with a varied menu of French and Savoyard dishes.
Price range: €€
Address: 8 Rue du Général de Gaulle, 74700 Sallanches
Phone: +33 4 50 58 88 00
Le Coin Savoyard
This family restaurant offers traditional cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
Price range: €€
Address: 10 Rue du Rosay, 74700 Sallanches
Phone: +33 4 50 58 11 22
L’Ourson Gourmand
A reputable establishment known for its homemade dishes and tasty pastries.
Price range: €€€
Address: 7 Rue du Comte Rouge, 74700 Sallanches
Phone: +33 4 50 58 90 67
Sports in Sallanches
Sallanches is a paradise for sports enthusiasts with a multitude of activities to discover:
- Hiking: Explore the Mont-Blanc or Arve valley trails for panoramic hikes.
- Skiing: Ski resorts like Megève, Combloux, and Chamonix are nearby, ideal for alpine skiing and snowboarding.
- Mountain biking: Many mountain bike trails are available, offering varied routes for all levels.
- Climbing: The cliffs of Passy and the Arve valley attract climbers from around the world.
Unusual activities near Sallanches
For a unique experience, Sallanches offers several unusual activities:
- Sled dog rides: A winter adventure to discover near the town.
- Helicopter sightseeing: Discover Mont-Blanc and the Alps from the air.
- Ice diving: A rare activity, accessible on the frozen lakes nearby.
School groups
- Louis Armand Primary School
- Jean-Jaurès School
- Léon Jacquier Middle School
- Mont-Blanc René Dayve High School
Markets in Sallanches
Sallanches hosts several markets:
- Weekly market: Saturday morning, in the town center, from 8 am to 1 pm. Local products and crafts.
- Producers’ market: Wednesday afternoon, Charles-Albert square, from 3 pm to 7 pm. Organic and farm products market.
See all the markets of Haute-Savoie
Public transport
Sallanches has a bus network connecting the different neighborhoods of the town and neighboring communes. The Sallanches-Combloux-Megève train station allows access to major cities such as Geneva and Annecy by train. Seasonal shuttles also provide links to ski resorts in winter.
Sallanches Town Hall
Address: 10 Place Charles-Albert, 74700 Sallanches
Phone: +33 4 50 91 27 00
Website: www.sallanches.fr
Skiing around Sallanches
- Megève: 12 km away, a prestigious ski resort offering 445 km of slopes.
- Combloux: 8 km away, a family-friendly resort ideal for alpine skiing and Nordic activities.
- Chamonix: 25 km away, famous for its extreme ski slopes and off-piste area.
- Les Houches: 20 km away, a friendly resort offering slopes for all levels.