Haute-Savoie is famous for its mountainous landscapes, lakes, and ski resorts. Annecy and Chamonix are major tourism destinations.
High Savoy is a department rich in tourist, gastronomic, and cultural activities. Here is a list categorized by type:
Gastronomic Activities
1. Cheese tasting: High Savoy is famous for its cheeses such as Reblochon, Abondance, and Beaufort. Visit local cheese shops for tastings.
2. Mountain restaurants: Discover Savoyarde cuisine in typical mountain restaurants with dishes like tartiflette, Savoyard fondue, and raclette.
3. Local markets: Chamonix, Annecy, and Thonon-les-Bains markets offer a variety of local products including fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses.
4. Savoie wines: Visit the region's vineyards to taste local wines such as Crépy, Marin, and Marignan.
Cultural Heritage
1. Annecy Castle: A medieval castle that now houses a museum with regional art and history collections.
2. Talloires Abbey: A historical and cultural site located on the shores of Lake Annecy.
3. Picturesque villages: Visit villages like Yvoire, classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France, and Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, known for its waterfalls and alpine landscapes.
4. Churches and chapels: Discover religious edifices such as the Basilica of the Visitation in Annecy and Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Church in Chamonix.
Tourist Activities
1. Lake Annecy: Enjoy water activities like sailing, pedal boating, and swimming or take a lake cruise.
2. Mont Blanc: Take the Aiguille du Midi cable car for an unobstructed view of Mont Blanc and the Alps.
3. Hiking and trekking: Explore numerous hiking trails in national parks such as the Vanoise National Park and the Bauges Regional Natural Park.
4. Ski resorts: In winter, enjoy ski resorts like Chamonix, Megève, and Morzine for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
5. Paragliding and extreme sports: High Savoy is a paradise for paragliders, rafters, and canyoneers.
Other Unmissable Activities
1. Annecy International Animation Film Festival: An annual event that attracts film enthusiasts from around the world.
2. Saint-Gervais Thermal Springs: Enjoy the benefits of thermal waters in this renowned spa town.
3. European Gardens: A beautiful park in Annecy, ideal for a relaxing walk.
4. Chablais Museum: Located in Thonon-les-Bains, this museum provides an insight into the region's history and culture.
These activities offer a wide range of experiences for visitors, whether they are interested in gastronomy, heritage, sports, or culture.