| LANDSCAPE: A region flagged by the peaks of its mountains where hiking and winter sports are king.
Chamonix, Megève, Avoriaz, La Clusaz, Courchevel… the Rhône-Alpes region has both the largest skiing area in the world and the most famous resorts, set above discreet little villages nestled in the valleys. This is a wonderful setting for downhill skiing and for all the more recent ways to slide over the snow. In summer, the white slopes metamorphose into vast green spaces – ideal for hikers – and the gorges roar with torrents, which lend themselves so well to white water sports.
Take a deep breath of fresh air in the heart of the unspoiled natural surroundings: the Vanoise, Ecrins and Bauges nature reserves; lakes near Léman, Annecy or Bourget; the many vineyards; historic countryside; and deep gorges in the Ardèche or Drôme. For city life, you can head for Lyon, Saint-Etienne, Chambéry, Annecy or Grenoble – all so attractive and so welcoming!
The region offers breathtaking mountain scenery, with crests of snow against clear blue skies, and small towns and villages spread over rich green meadows of alpine flowers. The Parc National de La Vanoise and Parc Régional du Queyras have particularly splendid flora and fauna.
PRIME ATTRACTIONS: Early July Visit the elegant lakeside spa town of Aix-les-Bains for the Roman baths. In Grenoble, take a cable car up to the Fort de la Bastille for magnificent views over the city and Mont Blanc.For the epitome of 'lakes-and-mountains' beauty, visit Lac d'Annecy where the River Thiou flows through the heart of the old town.
FOOD & WINE: Famed for cheeses: Reblochon, Raclette, Gruyère, Beaufort and Emmenthal. Try the fondue savoyarde (with wine and kirsch) and gratin dauphinois. Good wines include dry whites - Apremont, Chignin and sparkling Clairette. Gamay is the local Savoie wine, while fruity Mondeuse is the king of the local reds.
HISTORY: Europe's oldest royal family, the house of Savoy, ruled the Alps from c. 1000 until 1860, when the population voted to join France. The Savoyards are famous for their independence and courage and the steep cliffs of the Vercors Mountains were the 'Citadel of Resistance' in the last war.
ACTIVITIES: Skiing and all snow sports. Golf, tennis, boating, windsurfing and hang gliding are well-catered for, and you can look forward to walking, biking or riding through a wealth of lovely mountain scenery.
LOCAL EVENTS:
- Early July Megève jazz contest.
- Summer months Music Festival at Vienne.
CLIMATE: Expect cool weather at high altitudes in Spring. Summer months are warm and bright and extend into Autumn. |
