Menthon St. Bernard Travel Guide

Discover the beauty and charm of Menthon St. Bernard in Haute-Savoie, France. Find things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Menthon St. Bernard

Located in the heart of the French Alps, Menthon St. Bernard is a charming village in the Haute-Savoie region of France. Nestled between the pristine Annecy Lake and the imposing mountains, this idyllic town boasts captivating natural beauty, rich history, and an enchanting culture. Menthon St. Bernard has something to offer every traveler, from outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs to foodies and culture-seekers. In this travel guide, we’ll show you all the best things to do, see, and experience in Menthon St. Bernard.

List of Places to Visit in Menthon St. Bernard

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Menthon St. Bernard is a town steeped in history and culture. Here are some of the most important museums and historical places you shouldn’t miss:

  • Chateau de Menthon St. Bernard: This imposing medieval castle is the most popular tourist attraction in Menthon St. Bernard. Dating back to the 13th century, the castle boasts excellent views of the lake and mountains and houses a museum with exhibits on the history of the castle and the region.

  • Notre-Dame de l’Assomption: This stunning Gothic church is located in the heart of the village and offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the town. The church’s magnificent stained-glass windows and intricate carved woodwork are not to be missed.

Natural Attractions of Menthon St. Bernard: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Menthon St. Bernard is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty, from the crystal-clear Annecy Lake to the snowcapped mountains. Here are some of the best outdoor adventures and scenic views:

  • Annecy Lake: This glimmering turquoise lake is Menthon St. Bernard’s crown jewel. You can swim, sunbathe, kayak, or paddleboard in its clear waters or stroll along its scenic beaches.

  • La Tournette: This majestic mountain rises up to 2,351 meters and is an ideal hiking destination. You can embark on a challenging hike to the summit, but the views of the lake from the top are worth the effort.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Menthon St. Bernard

Menthon St. Bernard is a haven for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with numerous trails to choose from for all levels of difficulty. Here are some of the best:

  • Le Roc de Chère Trail: This 3-mile-long trail takes you through a beautiful nature reserve and offers stunning views of the lake.

  • Le Tour du Lac Trail: This 27-mile-long trail circles the entire lake and affords you unparalleled views of the mountains and the lake.

Best Things to Do in Menthon St. Bernard: Activities and Tours

Menthon St. Bernard has plenty of activities and tours to keep you entertained throughout your visit. Here are some of the best:

  • Boat tours: Take a relaxing sail on the lake and enjoy the magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Paragliding: If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, try paragliding and enjoy an amazing bird’s-eye view of Menthon St. Bernard and the surrounding area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Menthon St. Bernard

A week in Menthon St. Bernard will give you ample time to explore all the town has to offer. Here’s a sample itinerary for your week-long visit:

  • Day 1: Visit Chateau de Menthon St. Bernard and its museum.
  • Day 2: Embark on a hike to La Tournette and enjoy spectacular views of the lake.
  • Day 3: Take a boat tour on the lake and explore the charming villages along the shore.
  • Day 4: Visit the church of Notre-Dame de l’Assomption and stroll through the picturesque streets of the village.
  • Day 5: Rent a bike and explore the surrounding mountains.
  • Day 6: Go paragliding and enjoy an exhilarating aerial view of the region.
  • Day 7: Visit the local markets and shops and pick up some souvenirs to take home.

Food and Drink Scene of Menthon St. Bernard

Menthon St. Bernard is known for its delicious local cuisine and excellent wines. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fondue Savoyarde: This hearty dish is a staple of the region and consists of melted cheese served with bread and potatoes.

  • Tartiflette: This classic dish is made with potatoes, bacon, and reblochon cheese and is a real comfort food.

Local Beverages

  • Savoyard Wine: This region produces some of the finest wines in France, including the white Altesse and the red Gamay.

  • Chartreuse Liqueur: This herbal liqueur is made by Carthusian monks and is a must-try for any visitor to the region.

Where to Stay in Menthon St. Bernard: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Menthon St. Bernard offers a variety of accommodation options to suit any budget and taste. Here are some of the best:

  • Auberge de Montagne des Aravis: This charming guesthouse offers spacious rooms with mountain and lake views and is located in a tranquil setting.

  • Hotel du Lac: This elegant hotel boasts stunning lake views and tastefully decorated rooms.

What to Buy in Menthon St. Bernard: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs and local products to take home from Menthon St. Bernard include:

  • Cheese: This region is known for its delicious cheese, including the Tomme and Reblochon varieties.

  • Local Wines: Take home a bottle of the region’s delicious wine as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Menthon St. Bernard

Menthon St. Bernard is a friendly and welcoming community with a rich cultural heritage. The locals are proud of their traditions and customs, and visitors are encouraged to participate in local festivals and events throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Menthon St. Bernard

The best time to visit Menthon St. Bernard is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing. The winter months offer excellent skiing and other winter sports activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Menthon St. Bernard

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Menthon St. Bernard:

Do:

  • Learn some basic French phrases to help with communication.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Explore the region’s natural beauty through outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Underestimate the mountain weather, which can be unpredictable.
  • Be loud or disruptive in public spaces.
  • Leave without trying the local cuisine and wines.

Safety and Health

Here’s what you need to know about safety and health during your visit to Menthon St. Bernard:

Safety in Menthon St. Bernard

Menthon St. Bernard is a relatively safe town, but visitors should take normal precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

Health in Menthon St. Bernard

Visitors to Menthon St. Bernard should have comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency medical coverage. It’s also a good idea to bring any necessary prescription medications with you.

Getting to Menthon St. Bernard: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options for getting to Menthon St. Bernard:

Airports Near Menthon St. Bernard

  • Annecy-Meythet Airport: This airport is located 15 minutes away from Menthon St. Bernard and offers domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Menthon St. Bernard

  • Annecy Bus Station: This station is located in Annecy, approximately 15 minutes away from Menthon St. Bernard.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is a great option for exploring the region on your own.

How to Get Around in Menthon St. Bernard

Menthon St. Bernard is a relatively small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. Taxis and buses are also available for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Menthon St. Bernard: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Menthon St. Bernard is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding Alps and neighboring towns and cities. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Annecy: This charming alpine town is located just 15 minutes away and is known for its idyllic canals, stunning lake, and rich history.

  • Chamonix: This world-famous ski resort is located just 90 km away and offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world.

Conclusion

Menthon St. Bernard is a hidden gem in the French Alps that offers stunning natural beauty, rich history, and a welcoming culture. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or gastronomic delights, this idyllic town has something to offer every traveler. We hope this travel guide has inspired you to pack your bags and explore all that Menthon St. Bernard has to offer!