Holidays in Savoie, Rhone-Alpes, France

The department of Savoie is located in the heart of the mountains in the Rhone-Alpes region in eastern France, and is home to many of the country's most exclusive skiing resorts. There is still plenty to enjoy in the summer months too, whether visitors just want to appreciate the spectacular scenery or explore some of the historical towns dotted around the mountain. You can also step back in time with a visit to one of the most famous spa towns; the perfect way to relax after a day exploring the mountains.

Skiing and sightseeing

Most of the top skiing resorts can be found in the south-east of the region. Many of these, such as Courchevel, Meribel and Val d'Isere, would be out of the reach of most pockets during the winter season, when the slopes are occupied by celebrities and royalty, but prices drop in the summer once the skiers have left, so tourists can still appreciate their beautiful surroundings. The Vanoise national park is full of skiers in winter, but once the snow has melted, a number of walking and cycling routes are revealed, some of which can be quite tricky, but worth the climb for the view at the top.

Skiers looking for a day away from the slopes or summer tourists will enjoy the Baroque art trail through the churches and chapels of the Savoie villages. The churches in Valloire and Termignon boast particularly fine altarpieces, while there is a museum dedicated to Baroque art in Lanslebourg-Mont-Cenis. Thrill seekers may prefer to take a drive on the Alps road with its twists and turns and high drops. The road actually runs all the way from Menton on the coast to Thonon-les-Bains on the shores of Lake Geneva, but the most spectacular stretch runs through Savoie.

Aix-les-Bains

Located in the north of the Savoie region, on the shores of the Bourget Lake, Aix-les-Bains is one of France's best-known spa towns. Visitors can still enjoy the spa waters or just walk around the town and along the lakeshore, admiring the turn of the century hotels, casinos and shopping streets. In the summer months, the beach on the lake is popular with locals and tourists alike. The Bourget Lake itself is worth exploring, as it is the largest glacial lake in France and is surrounded by mountains and hills. Numerous water sports are available on the lake, including sailing and fishing, or you can walk on one of the many trails in the hills to enjoy the view over the lake and the town.



The Author writes for Holiday Home Rentals who have a selection of Villas in Savoie and Villas in France which can be rented direct from their owners.