Megeve highlight and its lesser-known neighbour, a quick introduction to Praz-sur-Arly

Megeve: A Timeless Allure in the Shadow of Mont Blanc

Located in the famed Pays du Mont Blanc region, a scenic one-hour drive from Geneva, discover the enchanting village of Megeve. Its captivating historic architecture, medieval alleys, charming fountains, relaxing spas, and tasty restaurants will leave you wanting more.

Baroness Noemie de Rothschild's vision has been brought to life in this prestigious town for over a century. The Rothschild family's ambitions of transforming Megeve into the French counterpart of St. Moritz, with its unique spin on things, have helped shape the resort's distinctive character and sophisticated appeal. Under the leadership of Baroness Noemie, the first golf course, the first ski lifts, and the altiport came to be. To this day, Baroness Noemie's influence continues to shape the essence of Megeve.

A Cradle of French Skiing Innovation

Megeve holds a distinguished place in the annals of French winter sports. It is the birthplace of France's first cable car dedicated to skiing, the Rochebrune cable car, which opened in 1933. Megeve has embraced progress and expansion while preserving the breathtaking natural canvas that surrounds it. Traditional Savoyard chalets, gourmet dining establishments and high-end boutiques cater to visitors' needs. Today, Megeve anchors the vast Évasion Mont-Blanc ski area with over 400 kilometres of piste terrain. Megeve is now home to 110 ski lifts; they've come a long way since their pioneering days of 1933.

An Alpine Sanctuary & Commitment to Environmental Responsibility

Situated in the heart of the alluring Mont-Blanc region, Megeve boasts an outstanding setting. Rich and lush forests and the Mont d'Arbois, the Mont Joly range, and the Rochebrune ridges surround the village. The tranquillity and serenity of this natural environment will captivate all who have the pleasure of visiting. Megeve also prides itself on respecting the natural environment. They've received prestigious accolades for such commitments as the Marianne d'Or award for conscious development in honour of the town's long-standing environmental preservation. Visitors are promised an unforgettable alpine escape with the town's high standards.

Shopping & Markets

Whether you forgot your ski goggles, want to bring home a little memento, or simply want to splurge, Megeve is the place to shop. In the village square, you'll notice famous luxurious brands rubbing shoulders with small creators.

If you’re looking for a more authentic shopping experience, consider visiting the Megeve Market, open every Friday throughout the year. The various stalls offer fresh flavours, local produce, and artistic crafts.

For those seeking a magical Christmas experience, the festivities begin in the first week of December with Santa's Village. Santa is available throughout the month to accept Christmas wish lists, and families can join him for storytelling sessions in the village centre. On the first weekend of December, be sure not to miss the tree lighting festival, where the impressive Fir Tree is illuminated, attracting thousands of spectators. In the heart of town, you can shop for your last-minute Christmas gifts while enjoying the beautiful lights surrounding you.

A World of Adventure Amidst Stunning Scenery

There's plenty to do in Megeve. Take flight above the majestic Mont-Blanc massif on a tandem paragliding trip or drift peacefully in a hot air balloon, enjoying the panoramic views of the Alps. Those looking to explore on land can join electric bike excursions and quad adventures into snowy mountain pastures.

Here you'll also find guided mountaineering for all levels, whether hiking, climbing, or glacier hiking. For more adrenaline, Megeve offers exhilarating dog sledging expeditions, and the 4S sledge rail where you can hop onto a toboggan attached to a rail with banked turns, tunnels and variations in speed and altitude open year-round. Take on the thrilling tree-top course or soak in the tranquillity of winter with family snowshoe outings. Visit the largest leisure centre in the Alps, Le Palais Megeve. Here, your options are endless; guests can enjoy the spa, visit the climbing centre, or use the ice skating rink, among other things.

Live like a local by visiting the theatre at Le Palais Megeve, check out the Haut Val d'Arly museum, and take guided tours where you'll unveil the rich heritage of Megeve. Families can participate in “lab hikes" where you explore local flora and fauna, or simply choose to relax by the picturesque Javen Lake. Events like the renowned Jazz Festival light up the town of Megeve.

Those looking to eat their way through Megeve will find it diverse, from the refined Michelin-starred creations at la Table Gastronomique d'Emmanuel Renaut to the aviation-themed ambience of Coucou Cafe at the Altiport. There are lots of opportunities for gourmet discoveries at the local creamery, and personalised wine tastings in the numerous wine cellars throughout town can be arranged. Megeve is home to delicious mountain cuisine and regional French flavours waiting to be savoured.

Treasure Trove of Family Fun

Aside from the magical markets and rich culture, Megeve has activities for all ages. The town developed the label "L'esprit Famille" because here, family is king. This label promises expertise in welcoming families and ensuring that children and their parents are attended to.

Parents hoping for some much-needed respite? Rest assured, Megeve has you covered. In Le Palais Megeve, you can also find a kids' club, led by “Billy Bosteu”, the resort's mascot. This is a play area for children aged 3 to 9; here, kids are entertained with connected games, creative hobbies, moments of relaxation and more. There are additional nurseries to look after your children, depending on their age, like the Little Faces Nursery, where children as young as 10 months can attend.

You'll find areas explicitly dedicated to children and their families on the slopes. Ski schools are open to all age ranges, starting as young as 3, so your kids can get a head start. Families receive special treatment here, from stroller accessibility to family-curated workshops.

Introducing Praz-sur-Arly: Megeve's Charming Neighbour

Just 4km down the road from Megeve, you’ll find the charming Praz-sur-Arly. This classic Savoyard village is nestled within the world-renowned Espace Diamant ski area. Renowned as France's premier destination for hot air ballooning, it draws travellers from around the globe. If you're lucky enough to visit in mid-January, you'll witness the spectacular Montgolfiades Internationales, an event that has been going on for over 30 years. It’s an organised aerial show in the mountains for amateurs and professionals alike, with nearly 20 hot air balloons available for flights, including first flights or just for viewing. There are fun activities for the whole family, including mini-hot air balloon flights.

Praz-sur-Arly has it all, from impeccable slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels to beautiful hiking and mountain biking trails in the summer. With its proximity to Megeve, visitors get the best of both worlds for a rich and diverse alpine escape.