Haute-Savoie

Le Grand-Bornand

Nestled in the Aravis mountain range, Le Grand-Bornand is a traditional alpine village that is known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding. The town also offers a range of other winter sports, such as snowshoeing, sledging, and ice-skating.

Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval

Located in the heart of the Giffre Valley, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval is a picturesque village that is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The village is known for its impressive waterfalls and is a popular destination for hiking and mountain biking.

Évian-les-Bains

Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, Évian-les-Bains is a charming spa town that is known for its beautiful parks, elegant Belle Epoque architecture, and stunning lake views. Visitors can stroll through the town's beautiful gardens and take in the views of the surrounding mountains.

WELCOME TO HAUTE-SAVOIE

Entry Into State

largest city

Annecy

AREA

4,388 km²

POPULATION

811,410

official language

French

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the canton's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Mont Blanc

Mont Blanc is the highest peak in the French Alps, standing at 4,810 meters. It straddles the border between France and Italy and is a popular destination for hikers, skiers, and mountaineers. The mountain is surrounded by stunning glaciers and pristine alpine lakes, offering breathtaking views to visitors.

ake Annecy

Lake Annecy is a stunning freshwater lake located in the heart of Haute-Savoie. Known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque mountain backdrop, Lake Annecy is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and other water activities. The lake is surrounded by charming lakeside towns and offers numerous scenic spots for visitors to enjoy.

Chamonix-Mont-Blan

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a picturesque town in the French Alps, renowned for its breathtaking views of the highest mountain in Europe, Mont Blanc. The town is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, as well as hiking and climbing in the summer. It also offers a vibrant nightlife and a range of cultural attractions.

Political

Economy and Government

Haute-Savoie is a department in southeastern France that borders Switzerland. Its economy is primarily driven by tourism, which contributes significantly to the region's GDP. The area is home to numerous ski resorts, including Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, as well as several lakes that attract summer visitors. Additionally, Haute-Savoie is known for its production of cheese, particularly Reblochon, which is made from cows that graze in the Alpine pastures.

The government of Haute-Savoie operates as a local departmental council, which is responsible for managing a range of public services and infrastructure, including transportation, social welfare, and education. The council is composed of 34 elected officials who serve a six-year term. The current president of the council is Christian Monteil, who was elected in 2015.

In terms of national government representation, Haute-Savoie is part of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and is represented in the French National Assembly by six deputies. The department also has three senators who represent it in the French Senate.

Overall, Haute-Savoie's economy and government are closely intertwined, with the council playing a significant role in promoting tourism and supporting local businesses.

History

History and Culture

Haute-Savoie, located in southeastern France, has a rich history and culture that has been shaped by its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe. The region was inhabited by the Gauls and later became part of the Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages, it was ruled by the House of Savoy, which left a lasting architectural and cultural legacy.

One of the most famous cultural traditions of Haute-Savoie is its cheese-making, particularly the production of Reblochon cheese. This is celebrated annually with the Fête des Fromages, a festival that showcases the region's cheese-making traditions and includes tastings and other events.

The region is also known for its folk music and dance, with the most famous being the Lou Paquérage, a dance performed in traditional dress that is associated with the region's agricultural calendar.

Haute-Savoie is home to a number of historic sites, including the medieval Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, which dates back to the 10th century and is still inhabited by the same family today. Other popular attractions include the Montenvers Train, which takes visitors to the Mer de Glace glacier, and the Jardin des Cinq Sens, a sensory garden in Yvoire.

Overall, Haute-Savoie's rich history and culture make it a fascinating destination for visitors interested in exploring the region's past and present.

HOTELS

Hôtel Mont-BlanC

Located in the heart of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, this luxury hotel offers stunning views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding mountain range. With its elegant rooms and suites, on-site restaurant, and full-service spa, the Hôtel Mont-Blanc provides a truly luxurious experience.

Les Chalets du Mont d'Arbois

Nestled in the hills above Megève, this 5-star hotel offers rustic charm and modern amenities. Its spacious suites and chalets feature wooden beams and antique furnishings, and the property offers a range of activities, from skiing and golf to hiking and spa treatments.

Four Seasons Hotel Megève

This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of the French Alps, just minutes from the ski slopes. With its stylish rooms and suites, fine dining restaurant, and extensive spa and wellness facilities, the Four Seasons Hotel Megève offers a truly unforgettable mountain getaway.

RESTAURANTS

La Bouitte

Located in the charming village of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a truly exceptional dining experience. Chef René Meilleur and his team create innovative dishes using local ingredients and traditional techniques, resulting in a menu that celebrates the flavors of the region.

Le Bistrot

This lively restaurant in the heart of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With its cozy atmosphere and classic French dishes, Le Bistrot is the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes or hiking in the mountains.

Auberge de l'Orangerie

This charming restaurant in the town of Bonneville is known for its exquisite cuisine and warm hospitality. The menu features traditional French dishes with a contemporary twist, and the restaurant also offers an extensive wine list to complement the flavors of each dish. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make Auberge de l'Orangerie a must-visit for food lovers.