Megève Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and eat, and the local customs of Megève, France. Discover all the safety, transportation, and health information you need to plan your dream vacation.


The Ultimate Travel Guide to Megève, France

Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Megève features a stunning landscape, boasting majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and inspiring valleys. Megève, an elegant and affluent town, is renowned for its winter resorts and ski slopes, with picturesque chalets and winding streets, holding onto its traditional Savoyard architectural style. Whether you’re a food lover, history buff, adventure seeker, or cultural aficionado, Megève will charm you and leave you mesmerized with its beauty and allure.

List of Places to Visit in Megève

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Le Calvaire Chapel: A beautifully preserved historical landmark dating back to the 19th century, adorned with paintings and frescoes from renowned artists.
  • Chateau de Megève: Once a 13th-century fortified castle, now home to a cultural centre with a fascinating collection of antique wooden objects, handicrafts and exhibits.
  • The Jaillet Gondola: A historic cable car offering stunning panoramic vistas of Mont Blanc and the Megève landscape.
  • Maison Forte de Mont d’Arbois: An impressive 14th-century fortress offering insight into the town’s rich cultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Megève: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mont d’Arbois: A massive peak overlooking the town, offering unique hiking trails, biking tracks, and skiing opportunities.
  • Mont Blanc: Europe’s tallest mountain, providing breathtaking scenic views from its summit.
  • The Aravis Mountains: A popular destination for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering excellent snow sports, hiking, and climbing opportunities.
  • The Mont-Blanc Tramway: A historic train offering picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Megève

  • Tour du Mont d’Arbois: A 5.6 km long trail encircling Mont d’Arbois, boasting stunning scenic views of Mount Blanc and Megève.
  • La Vallee des Aravis: A picturesque valley offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and hikes.
  • Le Grand Bornand: A charming village at the bottom of the valley, offering numerous hiking and biking trails.
  • Col des Anes: A challenging and scenic mountain pass connecting Megève to the nearby village of Praz-sur-Arly.

Best Things to Do in Megève: Activities and Tours

  • Skiing: Megève offers over 400 kilometers of ski slopes and 200 lifts, ideal for both beginners and seasoned skiers.
  • Horse-drawn Sleigh Rides: Discover the natural beauty of Megève in a cozy, romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride.
  • Golfing: Experience a world-class golf course at Mont d’Arbois, offering stunning views and extensive facilities.
  • Mountain Biking: Explore Megève’s breathtaking mountain terrain on two wheels, with a variety of biking trails and tours to choose from.

Week-Long Itinerary for Megève

Days Activities
Day 1 Arrive in Megève and explore the charming town center, visit the Le Calvaire Chapel, and enjoy some local cuisine
Day 2 A day of skiing or snowboarding at Megève’s world-class slopes
Day 3 Take a horse-drawn carriage ride or go snowshoeing in Megève’s winter wonderland
Day 4 Tour the Maison Forte de Mont d’Arbois and learn about the town’s history
Day 5 Take a day trip to Chamonix, explore the charming village and ride the cable car to the Aiguille du Midi
Day 6 Enjoy a round of golf at Mont d’Arbois
Day 7 Take a scenic train ride on the Mont-Blanc Tramway, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys

Food and Drink Scene of Megève

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fondue Savoyarde: A regional specialty, a thick, creamy, and cheese-based sauce served in a communal pot.
  • Raclette: Another cheese-based dish, served with potatoes, pickled onions, and cured meats.
  • Tartiflette: A hearty potato dish, typically made with bacon, onions, and Reblochon cheese.
  • Saucisson: A dried sausage made with beef, pork, or duck is a perfect snack with a glass of wine.

Local Beverages

  • Savoie Wines: A regional product of Megève, known for its crisp and refreshing taste.
  • Chartreuse: A strong and herbal liqueur brewed by Carthusian monks since the 18th century, is a local specialty of the region.

Where to Stay in Megève: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Four Seasons Hotel Megève: A luxurious hotel located in the center, offering a spa, outdoor pool, and exquisite dining options.
  • Les Loges Blanches: A mid-range option, offering cozy apartments with mountain views and a sauna.
  • Au Coin du Feu: A charming guesthouse near the ski lifts and town center, with a cozy, authentic mountain atmosphere and friendly staff.

What to Buy in Megève: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Savoyard Cheese: A regional specialty, Reblochon, Tomme, and Beaufort cheese made in the area are a perfect gift or souvenir.
  • Local Wines and Liqueurs: Take home a bottle of delicious Savoie wine or Chartreuse liqueur as a reminder of your visit.
  • Ceramics and Pottery: Megève is famous for its ceramics and pottery, typically made in traditional and rustic styles.

Local Culture and Customs of Megève

Megève is a chic and affluent town with a long-standing history rooted in agriculture and farming, with traditions dating back centuries. Visitors should respect the local customs and dress appropriately and behave politely while visiting the town.

Best Time to Visit Megève

Megève is a year-round destination, with different activities and things to do in each season. However, the best time to visit is from December to March, during the ski season, or from June to September for outdoor activities, especially hiking and biking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Megève

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and activities.
  • Try the local cuisine and wines.
  • Take advantage of the natural beauty of Megève.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash in public areas.
  • Disrespect the environment or local cultural traditions.
  • Drive recklessly on mountain roads.

Safety and Health

Safety in Megève

Megève is a safe destination, with low crime rates. However, visitors should be careful when skiing or snowboarding on the slopes and follow the safety guidelines provided by the ski resorts.

Health in Megève

Megève has excellent health facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Visitors should have valid health insurance and COVID-19 vaccination certificates when traveling to Megève.

Getting to Megève: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Megève

  • Geneva Airport: 82 km from Megève, offering international flight connections.
  • Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport: 180 km from Megève, offering domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Megève

  • Sallanches Bus Station: The main bus station, offering bus connections to Megève and other destinations in the region.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Hire a car from Geneva or Lyon-Saint Exupéry airport and drive to Megève.
  • Private Transfer: Book a private transfer from Geneva or Lyon-Saint Exupéry airport to Megève.

How to Get Around in Megève

Megève is a small town that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. However, visitors can also use public transportation, such as buses, or rent a car to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Megève: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: A picturesque village located at the base of Mont Blanc, offering stunning views and outdoor activities.
  • Annecy: The “Venice of the Alps,” a charming and romantic town overlooking the beautiful Lake Annecy.
  • Albertville: A historic town, once home to the Winter Olympics, offering rich history and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Megève is a charming and elegant little town, offering an authentic French mountain experience. With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and endless activities and tours, Megève is a dream destination for every traveler. Plan your visit to Megève now and explore the best of Savoie in the French Alps.