The departement of Savoie in the Rhone-Alpes region is all about one thing; mountains. Located on the Swiss border, the area's nickname is the “Snow Kingdom” which tells you all you need to know about the main reason that tourists visit the region. Many of the most famous – and most exclusive – French skiing resorts are located in Savoie, but the same areas are also becoming more and more popular as a summer destination, as skiing slopes are 'converted' to mountain biking trails and visitors arrive just to marvel at the spectacular Alpine scenery
Whether you visit in summer or winter, your first destination upon arriving in Savoie will be the far east of the region, where the best scenery and the best skiing is to be found. The famous resorts of Val d'Isere, Courchevel and Meribal are all within the borders of Savoie, with their world-renowned skiing, excellent amenities and entertaining apres-ski. There is even year-round skiing at Tignes, where the high-altitude Grand Motte Glacier is covered in snow right through the summer months. In the summer many of these skiing resorts and their five star accommodations are much cheaper, even though they still have a lot to offer. Not only is the mountain scenery just as beautiful in the warm weather, but activities like climbing, biking and walking that would be too risky in the winter months are available throughout the region.
Head west and the altitude starts to drop, though the scenery is no less beautiful. The region's main town of Chambery is also located in the west of the departement. The old town is a pleasant place for a stroll and there are several art galleries and museums in the town. Water sports fans are spoilt for choice as there are two large lakes on the outskirts of the town. The most popular is probably the glacial Bourget lake, where you can try your hand at sailing, kayaking and wind surfing. There are some man-made beaches on the shore if you would prefer to relax, while fishing is allowed if you have a permit.
The pretty town and spa resort of Aix-les-Bains is on the shore of the Bourget lake. Many of the buildings reflect the community's Belle-Epoque past, though some of the spas are still open today, if you feel in need of some pampering after all that time on the slopes. On the lakeshore, there is a pleasant promenade, rather like you might find at seaside resort, and there are plenty of hotels, bars and restaurants if you decide to make the area your base.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Savoie? Then below is a selection of gites in Savoie and villas in Savoie that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
