Rhone - Alpes - Pays de Savoie

A region flagged by the peaks of tis 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 nestling in the valleys. This is a wonderful setting for downhill skiing and for all the more recent way to slide over the snow. In summer, the white slopes metamorphose into vast green space – ideal for hikers – and the gorges roar with the torrents, which lend themselves so well to white water sports.

Take a deep breath of fresh air in the heart of the unspoilt natural surroundings of the Vanoise, Ecrins and Bauges nature reserves; near the Léman, Annecy or Bourget lakes; in the many vineyards or extensive historic countryside; and deep in the Ardèche or Drôme gorges… And should you have the urge to go to town, you can head for Lyon, Saint-Etienne, Chambéry, Annecy or Grenoble – all so attractive and so welcoming.

read on at France guide