The Haute Savoie is a department rich in places and activities, and it is difficult to discover everything in a short time. In this article, we will offer you a 7-day itinerary that will allow you to discover as many must-see places as possible, but also more discreet spots known only by locals. We have established this itinerary starting from Annemasse, but you can adapt it according to your arrival location.
From its majestic mountains to its charming villages, through its enchanting lakes and gastronomy, each day offers a unique experience. Draw inspiration from this guide for a vacation full of discoveries and adventures.
Day 1: Yvoire – Thonon les Bains
The village of Yvoire: the medieval pearl of Léman
Perched on a promontory at the southern tip of the Lake Léman, the village of Yvoire is a medieval gem classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. Founded in the early 14th century to protect lake trade, it still today preserves its ramparts, its fortified gates (Nernier and Rovorée), and its imposing dungeon, a remnant of the lordly castle. Its picturesque architecture is enhanced by remarkable floral decorations, the result of numerous national and European awards.
Main sites to visit:
- The gates of Nernier and Rovorée: entrances to the village dating back to the 14th century, classified as historical monuments, they bear witness to Yvoire’s former strategic role.
- The castle of Yvoire: built by Count Amédée V of Savoy, overlooking the lake from its quadrangular dungeon, it is now private property and not open to visitors, but its architecture remains impressive in silhouette from the quays.
- The Saint-Pancrace Church: recognizable by its shiny onion dome bell tower, it was erected from the Middle Ages and restored in the 19th century, with a sober and harmonious interior facade.
- The Garden of Five Senses: created in the old castle vegetable garden, this remarkable garden invites a sensory walk around 900 varieties of plants, ranked among the most visited sites in Haute-Savoie. More info: The Garden of Five Senses
Practical information:
- Access: Yvoire is accessible by car via the A40 (exits Annemasse or Nangy), about 25 km from Geneva. An SNCF train station is located in Perrignier (13 km), and boat shuttles (CGN or solar shuttle) connect Yvoire to Nernier and neighboring Switzerland.
- Village traffic: only pedestrian alleys allow strolling. Outdoor parking is available near the gates.
- Opening hours & prices: shops, cafes, and the Garden of Five Senses are open from April to October. The village can be visited freely all year round, with seasonal events like the Venetian parade or the summer jazz festival.
- Recommended visit duration: count between 2 and 4 hours: stroll through historic alleys, wander at the port, visit the garden, and enjoy a gourmet break facing the lake.
Why Yvoire?
Halfway between medieval heritage, floral elegance, and exceptional lakeside, Yvoire combines history, nature, and the art of living. It’s a perfect stop to enrich your itinerary in Haute-Savoie, between Chablais and Lake Léman.
The little extra: for a quieter walk, visit the Rovorée estate – La Châtaignière, a few kilometers from Yvoire.
To read: Visiting Yvoire
Boat ride on Lake Léman: From Yvoire to Nyon
After strolling through the medieval alleys of Yvoire, extend the experience with a crossing of Lake Léman towards Switzerland. Several companies offer regular cruises between Yvoire (France) and Nyon (Switzerland), allowing you to discover the lake from a unique angle, between flowered shores, castles, and alpine peaks in the background.
A picturesque crossing
The crossing Yvoire–Nyon lasts about 20 to 25 minutes. On board a modern boat or a Belle Époque steam boat (depending on the schedule), you enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of Léman and the Savoyard reliefs. The departure is made directly from the small port of Yvoire, just steps from the Nernier gate.
Itinerary in Nyon: a half-day between heritage, lake, and Swiss gentleness
➤ 1. The Castle of Nyon (5 min walk from the port)
Overlooking Lake Léman, the castle of Nyon is a symbol of the city. Built in the 12th century and then modified, it now houses a museum dedicated to faience and decorative arts. Its inner courtyard, its white towers, and exhibition rooms offer an exceptional viewpoint over the lake.
- Visit duration: approximately 45 minutes
- Price: CHF 8 (~8 €), free with the Nyon Région Card
➤ 2. The Old Town and its flowered alleys
From the castle, take the cobbled alleys of the old town. You will discover a peaceful atmosphere, punctuated by ancient fountains, craft shops, and charming cafés. Stop at the Market Square or Saint-Jean Street for a sweet break or local ice cream.
➤ 3. The Léman Museum (10 min walk, on Louis-Bonnard quay)
Located in a former arsenal, this original museum is dedicated to Lake Léman. You will see boat models, aquariums, and interactive exhibitions on ecology, navigation, and lake-related professions. Fun, instructive, perfect for families.
- Visit duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Price: CHF 8 (~8 €)
➤ 4. Walk along the quays and Conservatory Garden
End your visit with a stroll along the Rive quays, up to the Conservatory Garden. This flowered park overlooks the port and offers a splendid view of the lake, the French mountains in the distance, and... Yvoire, where you came from. A calm moment to beautifully close this Swiss interlude.
Practical information
Bonus tip: if you have a little more time, visit the Roman archaeological site of Colonia Iulia Equestris (just outside the center), which recalls Nyon’s importance in the Antique era.
- Company: CGN (General Navigation Company on Lake Léman)
- Timetable: regular crossings from April to October, with 5 to 8 round trips per day in high season.
- Prices: about 17 € one way for an adult (discounts for children, family, Swisspass or Léman Pass available).
- Ticketing: at the Yvoire port ticket offices, online on the CGN website or through certain tourist offices.
- Good to know: bicycles are accepted on board (with supplement), as well as dogs on a leash. Bring your ID card or passport, as you cross an international border.
- Currency: On the Swiss side, although some shops accept euros, prefer credit cards or Swiss francs. If you pay in euros, change will most likely be returned in Swiss francs.
Why choose this cruise?
This short getaway on the lake offers a peaceful break between two stages of your stay, while adding an unusual cross-border dimension. A suspended moment, perfect to soak up the gentle and majestic atmosphere of Léman.
Thonon les Bains: end of day and night in Thonon
To end your day gently, nothing beats a stop in Thonon-les-Bains, a lively and elegant spa resort situated between lake and mountains. In late afternoon, stroll along the Belvédère promenade, which offers an exceptional panorama of the port and Lake Léman. Then descend to the port of Rives via the historic funicular (or on foot for the more motivated): this peaceful neighborhood, with the atmosphere of a fishing village, is ideal for an aperitif on the terrace or dinner with your feet in the water.
In the evening, choose a digestive walk along the quays or a moment of relaxation at the Thonon thermal baths if you stay during the week. Regarding accommodation, the town offers a wide choice of hotels, guest rooms, and residences. For a fully comfortable stay, favor establishments with lake views or located in the historic center, just steps from restaurants and cafés. A perfect setting to recharge your batteries before continuing your Haute-Savoie journey.
Good dinner addresses in Thonon-les-Bains
Here are some quality establishments for a successful dinner, combining local cuisine, charming setting, and friendly atmosphere just steps from the lake:
Ô Vent d’Anges
Located very close to the belvédère with views over Léman, this restaurant offers modern, creative homemade cuisine, prepared with fresh and noble products. The welcome is warm, in a contemporary industrial-inspired decor. Open Tuesday to Saturday, lunch and dinner service. An ideal address for a refined gustatory experience.
Les Marronniers – place de Crête
A local institution founded in 1920, much appreciated for its traditional French and Savoyard cuisine. Homemade dishes, daily specials, and menus at reasonable prices (daily dish around €14, menu 23–25 €), flowered setting with terraces and garden. Open for lunch and dinner from Monday to Saturday.
La Brasserie du Général
Founded in 1864, this historic brasserie offers quality traditional cuisine served in a renovated bistro ambiance. Possible lake view terrace, authentic atmosphere, seasonal dishes, and recognized quality service for several generations. Open Monday to Saturday, continuous service.
Le Temps d’M
Bistro appreciated for its affordable menus (starter–main–dessert around €37) and current French cuisine, often cited among the best tables in downtown Thonon. Friendly atmosphere and a menu mixing classics with seasonal creations.
Day 2: Evian les Bains - Abondance Valley
Evian les Bains: thermal elegance and Léman gentleness
Start this second day with a morning in Évian-les-Bains, a resort renowned for its refinement and beneficial mineral waters. Bordered by Lake Léman, the town attracts with its Belle Époque atmosphere, tidy gardens, fountains, and historic facades.
Walk along the lake promenade, to the marina, then head up towards the city center to discover must-see spots: the Palais Lumière, a former thermal establishment now a cultural and exhibition center, and the Cachat spring, the iconic heart of the Évian brand, freely drinkable. Also, do not miss a visit to the Villa Lumière, the current town hall, a true jewel of neo-classical architecture.
For a gourmet break, sit on a terrace facing the lake or under the arcades of rue Nationale, where fine bakeries, tea rooms, and small brasseries compete in charm. Évian thus offers a moment of calm and freshness, between art of living and thermal heritage, perfect to start the day beautifully.
Heading to the mountains: direction La Chapelle d’Abondance
After a morning between thermal heritage and pleasures of the lake at Évian-les-Bains, it’s time to leave the shores of Léman to reach the first alpine reliefs of the Chablais. Take the road southeast, along the Abondance valley, to join La Chapelle d’Abondance, a charming mountain village nestled at 1,000 meters altitude. Count about 45 minutes of scenic drive, punctuated by forests, pastures, and typical chalets. On the way, you will cross the town of Abondance — known for its abbey and AOP cheese — before reaching this little paradise, perfect for a natural and authentic break in the heart of the Savoy Alps.
La Chapelle d’Abondance: nature, traditions, and alpine cheeses
Nestled in the heart of the Abondance valley, just steps from the Swiss border, La Chapelle d’Abondance is a small mountain village known for its family atmosphere, authenticity, and pastoral heritage. Here, pure air, green alpine pastures, and cowbells compose a soothing alpine symphony.
Start your visit with a walk along the Dranse river trail, accessible to all and perfectly arranged. For walking enthusiasts, several easy trails lead to alpine chalets or offer beautiful views of surrounding peaks (Mont de Grange, Cornettes de Bise). In summer, you can also choose a guided walk with a mountain guide or a "cheese heritage discovery" outing to visit a local farm and taste the essential Abondance AOP cheese.
Don’t miss a tour of the village, around its baroque church, artisans, and some good tables where you can enjoy tartiflette, croûte savoyarde, or cheese fondue… In the evening, enjoy the absolute calm of the valley, with a night in a chalet, mountain inn, or typical hotel with views of the meadows. It’s the perfect place to disconnect, recharge, and savor the mountain in all simplicity.
Easy stroll from La Chapelle d’Abondance
Sentier de l’Abray – easy walk along the stream
- Estimated duration: 1 hour 15 to 1 hour 30, ideal for a quiet afternoon outing.
- Distance / Elevation gain: about 3 to 4 km, very light elevation (+ a few tens of meters).
- Level: easy, suitable for all (walkers, families, people with strollers).
- Start: from the village center, near the Notre-Dame-de-Compassion chapel. The route begins with the Chevenne road and then joins a peaceful forest trail.
Highlights:
- Immersion in mountain forest rich in spruces, firs, and local species.
- Open view of the Mont de Grange then the Cornettes de Bise, from a small scree offering a beautiful panoramic view.
- Passing through a fallow deer park for an interesting wildlife discovery.
- Gentle return along the Chevenne stream, in the heart of the alpine pasture. There are benches, resting areas, and even a small fitness trail.
Day 3: Abondance Valley - Morzine
After a restful night at La Chapelle d’Abondance, it’s time to leave the green peaks of the Chablais to plunge into a quite different universe, more mysterious and mineral. Take the road southwest, following the Dranse valley to the village of La Vernaz, about 45 minutes drive.
On the way, enjoy some photo stops around Lake Montriond or the steep landscapes bordering the Dranse de Morzine.
Your morning destination: the Devil’s Bridge Gorges, a spectacular site sculpted by the river over millennia. Here, the limestone has been carved into narrow galleries, deep basins, and vertiginous cavities, offering a striking contrast to the softness of the alpine pastures you crossed the day before. A perfect opportunity to experience a subterranean immersion, between local legend and the raw power of nature.
The Devil’s Bridge Gorges
The Devil’s Bridge Gorges, located in the Aulps valley near Morzine in Haute-Savoie, offer an impressive natural spectacle, carved by thousands of years of erosion. This spectacular site gets its name from a local legend: it is said that the Devil himself was behind this mysterious place and marked the landscape with his power.
These deep gorges, carved by the turbulent waters of the Dranse de Morzine, reveal a succession of rock formations and vertiginous walls, making the walk as beautiful as captivating. Access is via a developed trail that allows visitors to descend into the heart of the gorges and admire the play of light on the limestone, the constant humidity giving the walls a deep and lively green.
Alongside the beauty of the place, the site offers a thematic trail with informative panels explaining the geology, fauna, flora, as well as history and legends associated with the gorges. A guided tour is also offered for a full immersion, allowing better understanding of the secrets of this unique environment.
Practical information:
- Address: 205 route des Grandes Alpes (D902) Place called "Le Jotty" 74200 LA VERNAZ
- Opening Hours:
- Open daily from April 1st to October 13th without reservation
- April/May/June: 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM continuous. Last ticket sold at 4 PM
- July/August: 9 AM to 6 PM continuous. Last ticket sold at 5:30 PM
- September: 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM continuous. Last ticket sold at 4 PM
- Prices (2024):
- Adults (from 16 years): 18 €
- Youths (4-15 years): 14 €
- Children (-4 years): Free
- Group rates on request from 20 persons
- Visit duration: Between 1 hour and 1 hour 30 for a round trip.
- Parking: Large parking lot near the entrance of the gorges
Heading to Morzine now, but passing through one of the most unusual and charming places of the Chablais
The village of Lindarets: the mountain... and the goats!
Before reaching Morzine, make an unforgettable stop at the village of Lindarets, perched at 1,470 meters altitude in the Aulps valley. Accessible by car from Montriond (15 to 20 minutes of winding road), this small alpine hamlet is famous for a unique feature: free-roaming goats wandering in the heart of the village.
They delight children and surprise visitors, allowing close approach and feeding (in moderation). The atmosphere here is truly mountainous, between wooden chalets, flowered terraces, and artisanal cheesemakers.
You can wander among shops selling local products (tomme cheese, sausages, jams) or have lunch in one of the small alpine restaurants offering Savoyard boards, cheese croûtes, or homemade blueberry tarts. In summer, the village is accessible by car, but also by chairlift or on foot from Lake Montriond for the most motivated.
After this original and gourmet break, resume the road to Morzine, only 20 minutes from Lindarets. This emblematic resort-village of the Portes du Soleil will be your last major stop of the day, between dynamic alpine atmosphere, mountain entertainment, and Savoyard art of living. The ideal place to spend the evening, dine in a lively center, and enjoy typical accommodation in a chalet or welcoming hotel.
Morzine: a lively evening in the heart of the Portes du Soleil
Nestled in the valley of the Dranse at 1,000 meters altitude, Morzine is a mountain resort at once authentic and lively, combining chalet spirit with a living village atmosphere. In summer, the resort reveals another face than skiing: that of a dynamic, festive, and sporty holiday destination.
Start your discovery with a walk in the village center, between wooden chalets, small flowered squares, and shopping alleys. Don’t miss the Sainte-Marie-Madeleine church and the old bridge over the Dranse, in the heart of the village. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the Morzine Bike Park or simply watch riders in action on pumptracks and mountain bike trails crossing the resort.
For dinner, Morzine offers a fine selection of restaurants: traditional Savoyard cuisine, mountain bistronomy, or terrace with a view of the peaks. The atmosphere is relaxed, often animated by concerts or outdoor events during the summer season.
Regarding accommodation, the resort offers a wide choice: charming hotels, chalets for rent, guest rooms, or residences. Many addresses are ideally located around the center or on the heights with mountain views. Morzine is an excellent base to rest before another alpine day... or to extend the evening on a terrace under the stars.
Day 4: Morzine - Giffre Valley
Leave Morzine in the morning freshness and gain altitude by taking the panoramic road climbing to the col de Joux Plane (1,690 m). This spectacular climb offers one of the finest views in the region: Mont Blanc, majestic, stands out in the distance above the alpine pastures and forests. The pass, often featured in the Tour de France, connects Morzine to Samoëns and is a must-see spot for lovers of grand landscapes.
Col de Joux Plane
At the col de Joux Plane, enjoy the viewpoint, and if you have some time, discover the panorama at the summit of La Bourgeoise.
Short hike: summit of La Bourgeoise
From the col de Joux Plane, you can take an easy and quick hike to the summit of La Bourgeoise (1,770 m), ideal for a 360° panoramic view.
- Round-trip duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Elevation gain: around +150 m
- Difficulty: easy, accessible to all levels
- Start: from the pass parking lot, follow signs to "La Bourgeoise"
- Exceptional view: over Mont Blanc, the Giffre Valley, the Dents Blanches, and even the Aravis chain.
The trail winds through flowered pastures, sometimes crossing herds and ends at an orientation table on a rocky plateau: one of the best viewpoints in the region. Ideal for a picnic or a contemplative break.
After this alpine interlude, slowly descend towards Samoëns, your next stop of the day, nestled in the heart of the Giffre valley.
Samoëns: heritage, carved stone, and art of living
After crossing the alpine pastures of the col de Joux Plane, head down to Samoëns, one of the few mountain villages classified as a “Historic Monument” for its heritage and stone architecture. Nestled in the Giffre Valley, this age-old town charms with its peaceful atmosphere, its alpine botanical garden (La Jaÿsinia), skilled stone sculptors, and traditional houses.
Start with a walk in the pedestrian center: the main square with its old lime tree planted in 1438, the Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church, cobbled streets, and buildings with flowered balconies recount the story of a living and authentic mountain village. If you have some time, step into a stone sculptor’s workshop or taste some tomme cheese at a local artisan cheese shop.
Samoëns is also a good starting point for outdoor activities: mountain biking, via ferrata, swimming at the Ladies’ Lake or discovering the valley by electric bike. But for the afternoon, a natural jewel awaits you, just a few kilometers away…
The Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval: the cathedral of nature
Take the road from Samoëns towards Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, then continue to the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval, one of the most impressive natural sites in Haute-Savoie. This gigantic horseshoe-shaped limestone wall, over 700 meters high, is dotted with vertiginous waterfalls, some exceeding 200 meters in height.
Accessible to all, the site is visited on foot via several equipped trails:
- Discovery trail (easy loop of around 1h30), perfectly marked, allows immersion in the scenery with no difficulty.
- For the more motivated, continue to the Fond de la Combe, at the foot of the Prazon glacier, in absolute silence — a moderate 3-hour round-trip hike.
On site: a paid parking lot (in season), a welcome point, a small café-restaurant, and the possibility to rent binoculars to observe wildlife (ibex, bearded vultures, marmots).
Best period: May to October, ideally after the snow melts when the thirty waterfalls spout across the entire wall.
Last stop of the day: the Rouget waterfall, the "Queen of the Alps"
On the way back from the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval excursion, stop at one of the most spectacular jewels of the Giffre valley: the Rouget waterfall. Nicknamed the "Queen of the Alps", this vertiginous fall of nearly 90 meters is a true wall of water that bursts from the cliffs with an impressive roar.
Accessible by car via a small mountain road from Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval (about 15 minutes), it can be viewed effortlessly from a developed viewpoint, but can also be approached on foot via a short trail allowing you to feel its full power up close. At the end of the day, when the sun’s rays illuminate the curtain of water, the effect is magical — and the crowds much less present.
Visit duration: 20 to 30 minutes, or longer if you want to picnic or extend the walk. Rouget Waterfall
Access: Fer-à-Cheval road, free parking at the foot of the waterfall (or main parking below if the road is closed to traffic).
Possible hike: If you stay an additional day on site, discover the Cascades de Sales and the chalets of Sales from the Lignon. This hike will allow you to discover a series of superb waterfalls, but also many ibex and marmots.
Night in Samoëns or Sixt: calm and nature guaranteed
To end this emotionally rich day, settle for the night in Samoëns, in a charming hotel, wooden chalet, or village guest room, close to the restaurants and shops of the center. If you are looking for more peace, you can also choose to spend the night in Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, in a mountain inn at the foot of the cliffs, falling asleep to the sound of the river and under the stars.
Day 5: Chamonix Valley, between sky and ice, at the heart of Mont Blanc
The fifth day of your stay takes you to one of the most mythical places in the Alps: the Chamonix Valley, birthplace of mountaineering and gateway to the highest peaks in Europe. Prepare for a magnificent day, between dizzying verticality and the ancient sea of ice.
From Samoëns or Sixt, take the road towards Cluses, then Sallanches and Chamonix. Count about an hour and a half’s drive (one hour if you take the highway at Cluses towards Chamonix).
Aiguille du Midi, tête-à-tête with Mont Blanc
Start your day early to avoid crowds by going to the departure station of the Aiguille du Midi cable car, south of Chamonix.
In two dizzying stages, you will be propelled to 3,842 meters altitude, facing Mont Blanc, within arm’s reach. From the panoramic terrace, the view opens 360° over the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps. A suspended and unforgettable moment.
Plan ahead: warm clothes, even in summer (temperature often below zero at the summit)
- Must-see on site:
- the summit terrace with view of Mont Blanc
- the footbridge between the two rocky peaks
- the famous "Step into the Void", a glass box suspended in the void for thrill seekers
- the mountaineering museum and the crystal gallery
- starting points of glacier expeditions (to watch in summer)
- Practical information:
- Time spent on site: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Round-trip ticket: from €70 per adult (reservation highly recommended)
Montenvers train and the Mer de Glace
Then descend into the valley for another alpine experience: board the legendary Montenvers cog railway, in service since 1908. In 20 minutes of travel from Chamonix, it takes you to 1,913 meters altitude, at the foot of the largest glacier in France, the famous Mer de Glace.
The site is impressive by its scale but also moving: the glacier’s retreat is clearly visible, and exhibitions on global warming take on full meaning here.
Plan ahead: good shoes, water bottle, and manage your time well if you visit the cave
- To see on site:
- the ice cave carved each year in the glacier (accessible by cable car + 500 steps)
- the Glaciorium, a small interactive museum about glaciers
- the Crystal Gallery
- views of the Drus and the Giant’s Tooth
- Practical information:
- Visit duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Round-trip ticket: around €38 (included in the Mont-Blanc Multipass)
End of day in Chamonix: strolling and mountain atmosphere
Back in town, enjoy the late afternoon to wander through the lively streets of Chamonix: mountain shops, ice cream parlors, convivial terraces, and cosmopolitan atmosphere await you. Don’t hesitate to visit the Saint-Michel church, the mountain house, or simply settle with a view of the massif for a well-deserved rest.
For dinner and overnight, Chamonix offers many options: from traditional hotels to contemporary chalets, from Savoyard fondue to world cuisine, you will definitely find something to your liking in this unique town where the mountain is everywhere.
Practical tips in Chamonix
Mont Blanc Multipass
Consider getting the Mont Blanc Multipass, a very advantageous combined ticket giving one-day access to:
- The Aiguille du Midi
- The Montenvers train
- The Planpraz or Brévent cable cars
- And several other lifts in the valley
- It is valid for one or multiple days (pass for 1 to 3 days) and helps avoid queues at each site. Purchase possible online or at the Tourist Office.
Suggested timetable
- Arrive early (before 9 AM) for the Aiguille du Midi cable car: the attendance is high, especially in summer.
- Plan at least 3 to 4 hours between Aiguille du Midi and Montenvers if you do both in the same day.
- The ice cave at Montenvers closes earlier than the station (last descent around 4:30–5 PM).
Lunch break
- To avoid crowded restaurants, consider bringing a picnic or sandwich to enjoy facing Mont Blanc: the parks and banks of the Arve river are perfect for that.
- Otherwise, try a gourmet break at the Crèmerie du Glacier (towards the Bois), or at Cool Cats (downtown), for a quick and tasty lunch.
Parking and transport
- Parking in the center is paid and often full in the afternoon. Prefer the Grépon parking lot, spacious, close to the cable car, and connected to the center by a free shuttle.
- The Mont-Blanc Express train and free valley shuttles (Mulet) allow easy movement without a car.
Check the weather
- Always check the mountain weather at chamonix.com or at the Tourist Office: in the mountains, the sky can change quickly.
- Even in summer, it can be 0°C at the summit of Aiguille du Midi: bring fleece, windbreaker, and sunglasses.
Day 6: From Megève to Annecy: mountain elegance, alpine pastures, and dream lake
This sixth day is a true cross-section of Haute-Savoie atmospheres: from the chic alleys of Megève to the flowered alpine pastures of the Aravis pass, through the lively village of La Clusaz, to Annecy, a lakeside pearl where you will end your day with your feet in the water.
Megève, between refinement and panorama
From Chamonix, leave early to reach Megève (about 1h10 drive). In this village of unique charm, traditional architecture and high-end shops coexist with an authentic art of living.
What to see and do in Megève:
- Stroll in the pedestrian center, around the church square
- Climb to the calvary for an open view over the village
- Enjoy a coffee or pastry in an alpine tea room
- (In summer) Take the cable car up to Mont d’Arbois or Rochebrune for a short walk and views of Mont Blanc
Recommended time on site: 1h30 to 2h
Aravis Pass – balcony overlooking Mont Blanc
Then take the scenic Val d’Arly road towards the Aravis pass (1,486 m). Count about 45 minutes of drive, crossing Flumet and La Giettaz. At the pass summit, a breathtaking viewpoint opens over the Mont Blanc range, often considered one of the most beautiful in Haute-Savoie.
Things to do at the pass:
- Buy local products directly from alpine farms: farm reblochon, tomme cheese from Savoie, sausages
- Lunch in a small chalet-inn with panoramic terrace (raclette or croziflette available)
- Visit the Sainte-Anne chapel, nestled in a mountain setting
La Clusaz, the lively charm of the Aravis
Then descend towards La Clusaz (20 min drive), an emblematic village of the Aravis massif, appreciated both for its family resorts and for its authentic atmosphere.
Things to do in La Clusaz:
- Discover the village center, its church, flowered chalets
- Walk in the alpine pastures accessible by chairlift, or take a short hike around Beauregard
- Refreshment break at Confins park or in a café in town
- For children: a small amusement park, playful trails, mini-golf
Recommended time: 1h30 to 2h on site
End of day and night in Annecy, the pearl of the lake
In late afternoon, take the road towards Annecy, about 50 minutes from La Clusaz via Thônes. Descending into the valley, the mountains gradually give way to the turquoise waters of the lake, for an end of day as poetic as relaxing.
Once in Annecy:
- Evening walk in the old town of Annecy: canals, arcades, cobbled alleys, and pastel facades
- Dinner on a terrace by the Thiou canal or on the lake quays
- Check-in at a hotel, guest room or aparthotel in the center or with a lake view
Practical advice: if you are visiting during the summer season, book your accommodation in advance – Annecy is very popular.
Good plans for the evening in Annecy’s old town
After a day on mountain roads, nothing beats an evening in Annecy to combine relaxation, gastronomy, and romantic atmosphere. Here are some suggestions to fully enjoy the old town at dusk:
Where to dine?
- L’Etage: Savoyard bistro nestled in a half-timbered house, perfect for a quiet fondue.
- La Table d’Élise: more contemporary cuisine, fresh products, and a fine wine list in a sleek setting.
- Le Fréti: a local institution to try all varieties of fondue in a mountain-style décor.
Where to have a drink?
- Captain Pub (rue Sainte-Claire): wide selection of beers and lively terrace.
- Bar Roux d’Heure: cozy lounge and discreet cocktail bar with retro charm.
- Le Savoie: ideal for a drink by the canal, relaxed atmosphere and views of illuminated bridges.
A short digestive walk
- Walk up the Thiou canal by night to the Perrière bridge
- Pause facing the illuminated Palais de l’Île
- Finish with a stroll under the plane trees of the Pâquier, with views of the shimmering lake
In July/August, many concerts, night markets, and open-air screenings are offered downtown.
Day 7: Annecy and its lake: the art of living by the water
For your last day in Haute-Savoie, treat yourself to a moment of calm, beauty, and wandering. Between pastel alleys, turquoise water, and mountains in the background, Annecy is the ideal place to finish your stay beautifully.
Discovering old Annecy
Start the day with a walk through the historic center, nicknamed the "Venice of the Alps". Wander the cobbled alleys lined with arcades, admire ochre and pink facades, and let yourself be carried by the peaceful morning atmosphere.
Must-see sights:
- The Palais de l’Île, emblem of Annecy (former courthouse on an island)
- The Annecy Castle, museum and belvedere over the city roofs
- Sainte-Claire street and its market (Tuesday, Friday or Sunday mornings)
- The Thiou canal, one of the shortest in France, but remarkably beautiful
Noon: lunch with your feet in the water
Choose a restaurant with a terrace by the canal or on the lake shores. For an unforgettable experience, opt for:
- Les Terrasses du Lac in Albigny for a direct view over the water
- La Bicyclette Rose in the old town, for a more intimate gourmet break
Afternoon: cruise or swimming on Lake Annecy
To fully enjoy Lake Annecy, three options are available depending on your wishes:
Option 1: panoramic cruise
- Board for a one-hour guided cruise departing from Napoléon III quay
- Admire Talloires, Menthon-Saint-Bernard, Roc de Chère, and wild beaches
- Price: about €17–20 per adult
Option 2: swimming and relaxing
- Settle on the Marquisats beach (free, supervised, grassy area)
- Or choose Albigny beach, larger, with pedal boat and paddle rentals
To read: The beaches of Lake Annecy: The complete guide to enjoy your stay
Option 3: Lake Annecy bike tour
- Rent a bike at one of the many rental shops: rent a bike in Annecy
- Discover the lake from another angle by cycling around it (40 km).
To read: Lake Annecy bike tour
Last stroll and departure
Finish your afternoon with a walk around the Pâquier, a large flat park by the water, much loved by locals. Then head to the Love Bridge, an iconic place for a last snapshot or a contemplative moment facing the mountains.
Thus ends your week in Haute-Savoie, between peaks, waterfalls, authentic villages, and azure reflections. A balanced itinerary combining nature, heritage, gastronomy, and unforgettable landscapes. So have a great trip!
The route map
