10 Best Things to Do in Summer in Savoie
Make the Most of Your Summer in Savoie
Deep in the south of France, bordering Italy and the Mediterranean, Savoie is a prime holiday spot, offering plenty of great things to do in summer. While the winter snows are popular in the Alps, the summer sun shows off the mountains and lakes of this beautiful region in a spectacular light.
Phenomenal views, fantastic photo ops and fascinating history surround you in this region. We can help you find where to relax and where to explore. Read on to find out how to make the most of your summer in Savoie.
1. Vanoise National Park
The dramatic beauty of the Alps
Ideal para: Famílias, Foto
If you’re looking to explore the rugged majesty of the alps, then Vanoise National Park is the right place. In summer, the peaks of Savoie stand out dramatically against the blue of the sky and Vanoise National Park is the perfect place to see this beauty up close. Hike up the mountains to discover breathtaking views over the French landscape.
The park was created to protect the native ibexes and is now a haven for wildlife of many shapes and sizes. As well as a variety of rare birds, lynx, wolves and other creatures wander the slopes. This is a beautiful way to make the most of the gorgeous summer weather.
Localização: Parc national de la Vanoise, 73000 Vanoise, France
Telefone: +33 (0)4 79 62 30 54
Vanoise National Park
2. Le Bourget-du-Lac
A lakeside town perfect for exploring
Ideal para: Famílias, Casais, História
As well as its peaks, Savoie is also known for its beautiful lakes, and the town of Le Bourget-du-Lac sits on the southern shore of Lac du Bourget. The blue sky is reflected in the sparkling lake waters. Like the surrounding countryside, the town itself is full of trees.
There is also the 11th-century Priory of Saint Maurice and its elegant gardens, which look amazing in the summer months. When you’re feeling hungry, a variety of restaurants are available in town, or bring a picnic and take a walk down to the waterside to enjoy the natural peace and beauty.
Le Bourget-du-Lac
3. Chambéry
The historic capital of Savoie
Ideal para: História, Casais
Chambéry has been the capital of the Savoie region since the 13th century and, as such, it’s no surprise that this city is full of history and interest. Walking through the streets of the Old Town feels like stepping back in time and you’ll find fascinating historical buildings to explore, such as Chambéry Cathedral and the Chateau des Ducs de Savoie through guided tours.
One of the most iconic sights in the city, and the perfect place for a selfie, is the Fontaine des Elephants. Water flows from the trunks of the lifelike elephant statues that stand out from the base. When you want to sit down, head for Place Saint-Léger, where cafes and restaurants line the pedestrian street.
Chambéry
4. Tignes
Adventures for thrill-seekers
Ideal para: Famílias, Aventura
If you’re looking for an action-adventure sort of summer, then Tignes has you covered. While more famous for its skiing, which is still available in certain areas even in summer, you’ll find a whole host of sports and activities available for you.
Biking, water sports, paragliding and rock climbing are only some of the activities you can find in Tignes. There’s plenty of action for kids as well. When you’re ready for a breather, relax by one of the lakes or find a restaurant in one of the mountain villages.
Tignes
5. Les Forts de l’Esseillon
A restored mountain-top fortification complex
Ideal para: História, Foto
Five separate forts make up these 1.8 miles (3 km) of fortifications, all 820 ft (250 metres) of them constructed in the 19th century. Each of them is named after a different member of the Savoy royal family. Of the 5 forts, 3 have been restored and are open for guided tours and 1 remains unfinished. Tours are available of both the forts and the surrounding area. In winter, they’re less accessible, so summer is the perfect time to visit if you don’t fancy trekking through snow.
At 5,000 ft (1,500 metres) above sea level, the views from the fortifications are phenomenal and the buildings themselves make an imposing sight. Don’t forget to bring your camera.
Les Forts de l'Esseillon
6. Doussard summertime market
A busy Monday market
Ideal para: Alimentação, Compras
In the heart of Doussard, the Rue de Macherine becomes home to a bustling market every Monday from June to September. Known as a farmers’ market, there’s plenty of local produce for sale, so you can experience a taste of Savoie, or even take one home. Enjoy the sunshine as you stroll between the stalls and discover fresh foods and unique clothing.
As the market finishes at lunchtime, you’ll want to arrive early to get the best range to choose from. But that’s also perfect timing to grab some food for a picnic by the shores of the nearby Lac D’Annecy.
Localização: Rue de Macherine, 74210 Doussard, France
Abre: June–September: Monday from 8.30 am to 12.30 pm (closed on Tuesday–Sunday)
Doussard summertime market
7. Barrage et Site de Roselend
An imposing dam with stunning views
Ideal para: Foto, Casais, Famílias
Le Barrage en Site de Roselend, or the Roselend Dam, is quite a modern construction in an area that’s so filled with history. But when it’s open in summer, the sensational views over the water and the mountains surrounding them make it an absolute must to visit.
The sweeping curve of this dramatic dam is about half a mile (800 metres) long. The blue-green waters of Roselend Lake extend on one side, while the other plunges down into the valley below, meaning every direction you look in will take your breath away.
Localização: 73270 Beaufort, France
Barrage et Site de Roselend
8. Aquamotion Courchevel
A water and leisure activity centre with spa facilities
Ideal para: Famílias, Luxo, Aventura
When the Savoie sun gets too hot, where better to go to cool yourself down than the Aquamotion Courchevel leisure and swimming complex? Aquamotion Courchevel entertains your entire family. Race down the waterslides, try out indoor surfing and let your children explore the Kids Adventure.
Not all the fun at Aquamotion Courchevel comes with a splash, though. There’s also rock climbing and spa facilities, among other things, so if you’d prefer to relax while everyone else enjoys the excitement, you can let yourself be pampered.
Localização: 1297 Route des Eaux Vives, Village, 73120 Courchevel, France
Abre: Wednesday–Monday from 10 am to 8.30 pm (closed on Tuesdays)
Telefone: +33 (0)9 71 00 73 00
Aquamotion Courchevel
9. Musee Opinel
High-quality craft and the history behind it
Ideal para: História, Compras
The Opinel brand is renowned throughout the world, and the Musee Opinel gives you the chance to learn its history. A cutlery museum might sound like a strange place to stop, but this small museum holds a fascinating story. Anyone interested in mechanisms, history or design will love the video tour of the factory.
But what museum is complete without the little shop by the exit? Not just a gift shop, this is also the factory outlet shop, so take the chance to get your hands on some quality Opinel products right from the source.
Localização: 25 Rue Jean Jaurès, 73300 Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, France
Abre: Monday–Saturday from 9 am to 6.30 pm (closed on Sundays)
Telefone: +33 (0)4 79 64 04 78
Musee Opinel
10. Musee des Charmettes
An enchanting house full of history and surrounded by natural beauty
Ideal para: História, Foto
Once the retreat of the world-famous philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau in the 18th century, Musee des Charmettes is filled with historic furniture and décor. Guided tours of this house-turned-museum give you insights into Rousseau’s life and work. It feels like a time capsule, keeping the treasures of the past safe.
The house is settled in beautiful, extensive grounds, from an elegantly designed formal garden to an orchard and a vineyard. The beauty of the gardens and the astonishing views across the valley are worth taking your time to appreciate. The natural landscape provides the perfect bucolic setting for this charming home.
Localização: 890 Chem. des Charmettes, 73000 Chambéry, France
Abre: Tuesday–Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm (closed on Mondays)
Telefone: +33 (0)4 79 33 39 44
Musee des Charmettes
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