Morillon Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and eat, and how to get around in Morillon, France. Learn about the local culture and customs, safety and health, and nearby destinations and excursions.


Introduction to Morillon

Nestled in the heart of Haute-Savoie, in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Morillon is a charming Alpine village that offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Its picturesque streets, magnificent scenery, and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventurers alike.

List of Places to Visit in Morillon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in history and culture, Morillon won’t disappoint you. Here are some of the most important museums and historical places to visit:

  • Le Chemin du Patrimoine - This enchanting trail will take you through the rich heritage of Morillon, featuring traditional architecture, chapels, and fountains.
  • Museum of Mechanical Music - This fascinating museum houses a unique collection of self-playing instruments and music boxes, including some rare and historic treasures.
  • Château de Mont-Saxonnex - This impressive castle is located just a short drive from Morillon and offers stunning views of the region from its hilltop position. It also houses an interesting museum of rural life.

Natural Attractions of Morillon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Morillon is famous for its outstanding natural beauty, from scenic lakes and dense forests to towering peaks and glaciers. Here are some of the most popular outdoor activities and places to explore:

  • Samoëns Adventure Park - This thrilling adventure park is located just a few kilometers from Morillon and offers a wide range of activities, including tree-top courses, zip lines, and via ferrata.
  • Lac Bleu - This serene lake is located in the heart of the village and is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or picnicking.
  • Giffre Valley - This spectacular valley is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with well-marked trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, hidden waterfalls, and picturesque hamlets.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Morillon

Morillon boasts a vast network of hiking and biking trails that cater to all levels of experience and fitness. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval - This 12 km hike takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Giffre Valley, including the impressive Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval, a natural amphitheater of towering peaks and cascading waterfalls.
  • Lac de Gers - This moderate hike takes you to the stunning Lac de Gers, nestled in a high mountain pass and surrounded by dense forests and alpine meadows.
  • Col de Joux Plane - This challenging bike ride takes you to the top of the Col de Joux Plane, one of the most iconic climbs of the Tour de France, offering panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif and the valley below.

Best Things to Do in Morillon: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Morillon offers a wide range of activities and tours for all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Paragliding - Experience the thrill of flying over the stunning landscapes of Morillon with a tandem paragliding flight.
  • Horseback Riding - Explore the scenic trails of Morillon on horseback, with tours ranging from one hour to full-day excursions.
  • Cheese Tasting - Indulge your taste buds with the authentic flavors of the Savoie region with a cheese tasting tour that showcases some of the best local products.

Week-Long Itinerary for Morillon

If you’re planning to spend a week in Morillon, here’s a sample itinerary that covers some of the best sights and activities of the region:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Morillon, settle into your accommodation, and explore the village
2 Take a guided tour of the Giffre Valley and discover its natural wonders
3 Go hiking or biking in the mountains and enjoy a picnic lunch in the wilderness
4 Visit the Museum of Mechanical Music in Les Gets and discover its fascinating collection
5 Take a day trip to the Château de Mont-Saxonnex and explore its museum of rural life
6 Relax by the shores of Lac Bleu and enjoy swimming and sunbathing
7 Experience the thrill of paragliding and admire the stunning views from above

Food and Drink Scene of Morillon

No trip to Morillon is complete without sampling the local cuisine, which is rich in flavors, aromas, and traditions. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fondue Savoyarde - This classic cheese fondue is made with a blend of local cheeses and served with bread, potatoes, and cured meats.
  • Raclette - This melted cheese delicacy is cooked tableside and served with potatoes, charcuterie, and cornichons.
  • Croûte au Fromage - This hearty dish features a generous slice of bread topped with melted cheese, cream, and bacon.

Local Beverages

  • Vin de Savoie - This crisp and refreshing white wine is made from the grapes of the Savoie region and perfectly complements the rich flavors of local dishes.
  • Génépi - This herbal liqueur is made from the Génépi plant that grows in the mountains and has a bitter-sweet taste that warms you up on cold evenings.
  • Chartreuse - This potent liqueur is made from a secret blend of 130 herbs and spices and has a unique and complex flavor that lingers in your mouth.

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

Morillon offers a wide range of accommodations that cater to all budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels and cozy chalets to affordable hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:

  • Chalet-Hôtel Les Rhodos - This charming chalet-style hotel offers breathtaking views of the mountains, cozy rooms, and a gourmet restaurant that serves traditional cuisine.
  • Gîte Le Laurentian - This family-run guesthouse is located in the heart of Morillon and offers comfortable rooms, a cozy lounge, and a hearty breakfast.
  • The Nid du Dahu Hostel - This trendy and affordable hostel offers dorms and private rooms, a modern kitchen, and a lively bar that hosts regular events.

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

Morillon offers plenty of opportunities for souvenir shopping and local product sampling, from artisanal crafts and clothing to delicious food and drink. Here are some of the best options:

  • Savoie Wine - Bring home a bottle of the Savoie region’s famous white wine, which comes in many varieties and flavors.
  • Cheese - Stock up on some of the region’s most famous cheeses, such as Beaufort, Tomme, and Reblochon, which you can find in local markets and shops.
  • Trinkets - Souvenir shops in Morillon offer a variety of trinkets, including keychains, magnets, postcards, and t-shirts, that make for inexpensive and fun souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Morillon

To fully appreciate the local culture and customs of Morillon, it’s important to remember that this is a traditional Alpine village with strong ties to its heritage and history. Here are some of the most important customs and etiquette rules to keep in mind:

  • Respect the Environment - Morillon is proud of its natural beauty and takes great care to preserve its flora and fauna. Avoid littering, stay on marked trails, and respect the wildlife.
  • Learn Some French - While many locals speak English, it’s always appreciated when tourists make an effort to speak some French, even if it’s just a few basic phrases.
  • Dress Appropriately - Morillon is a casual destination, but it’s always a good idea to dress appropriately for the weather and the activity you’re planning to do.

Best Time to Visit Morillon

Morillon is a year-round destination that offers different pleasures depending on the season. Summer is perfect for hiking, biking, and water activities, while winter is the time for snow sports and cozy evenings by the fireplace. Spring and fall are quieter seasons with fewer tourists and lower prices. The best time to visit Morillon depends on your preferences and interests.

Do’s and Don’ts of Morillon

To help you navigate the local customs and etiquette, here are some of the do’s and don’ts of Morillon:

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Do respect the natural environment and wildlife.
  • Do learn some basic French and engage with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Don’t be too loud or disruptive in public places.
  • Don’t forget to try some local cheeses and wines.

Safety and Health

Morillon is a safe destination with low crime rates and a laid-back atmosphere. However, it’s always important to take some basic precautions to ensure your safety and well-being:

Safety in Morillon

  • Stay on marked trails and follow the advice of local guides.
  • Be careful when driving on mountainous roads and in winter conditions.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Morillon

  • Be prepared for high altitudes and changing weather conditions.
  • Make sure to have proper hiking or biking gear.
  • Get travel insurance that covers outdoor and winter sports.

Getting to Morillon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Morillon is relatively easy to reach by plane, train, or car, and there are several transportation options and logistics to consider depending on your starting point and mode of transportation.

Airports Near Morillon

The closest airports to Morillon are:

  • Geneva Airport (GVA) - 70 km (about 1 hour by car)
  • Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) - 200 km (about 2.5 hours by car)

Bus Stations Near Morillon

There are several bus stations near Morillon that offer connections to major cities and towns in the region, including:

  • Cluses Bus Station - 20 km (about 30 minutes by car)
  • Annemasse Bus Station - 65 km (about 1 hour by car)

Other Options

If you prefer to drive, Morillon is easily accessible by car via the A40 motorway (Autoroute Blanche) that connects Geneva to Chamonix. Alternatively, you can take a train to Cluses or Annemasse and then transfer to a local bus or taxi.

How to Get Around in Morillon

Morillon is a small village that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. If you need to travel further, there are several transportation options available, including:

  • Local Buses - Morillon is served by several local buses that connect it to nearby villages and towns, including Samoëns and Cluses.
  • Taxis - Taxis are available in Morillon, but they can be expensive, especially if you’re traveling a long distance or at night.
  • Car Rental - You can rent a car in Morillon or at one of the nearby airports or train stations if you prefer to have more flexibility and independence.

Where to Go Next from Morillon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Morillon is a perfect base for exploring the Savoie region and its many attractions and destinations. Here are some ideas for nearby excursions and day trips:

  • Chamonix - This iconic mountain resort is located just an hour’s drive from Morillon and offers stunning views of the Mont Blanc massif, as well as a wide range of outdoor activities and cultural events.
  • Annecy - This charming medieval city is located about 2 hours from Morillon and is famous for its picturesque canals, artisanal crafts, and gourmet cuisine.
  • Lake Geneva - This vast freshwater lake is located just a stone’s throw from Morillon and offers a wide range of water activities, as well as elegant lakeside towns and villages.

Conclusion

Morillon is a gem of the Savoie region that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, an active vacation, or a cultural immersion, Morillon has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the many wonders of Morillon.