The most beautiful places in the Alps: our absolute favorites!

A land of majestic nature and a rich, eventful history, the treasures of the French Alps unfold in the streets of iconic towns like Annecy and Chambéry, as well as in protected natural areas such as Vanoise National Park and the mountain ranges of the Aravis, Bauges, and Chartreuse. The Alps are also a region of rich and flavorful terroir, famed for Savoyard cheese and wine, and a paradise for winter sports, with world-renowned ski resorts like Megève, Courchevel, Val d’Isère, Val Thorens, and Chamonix—home to Western Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc. Discover here all the best plac

Aiguille du Midi: up close with Mont Blanc

Aiguille du Midi: up close with Mont Blanc

The Aiguille du Midi is an extraordinary peak towering above Chamonix-Mont-Blanc at 3,842 meters. In just twenty minutes on the cable car, you gain an astonishing 2,800 meters in altitude, reaching a summit that offers a truly breathtaking panorama! The Alps stretch before you, across France, Switzerland, and Italy, in a pristine and wild landscape… The Dent du Géant, the Grandes Jorasses, the Matterhorn on a clear day, and of course Mont Blanc itself, soar into the sky in an environment that has drawn the greatest adventurers since time immemorial.

At 1786, we invite you to discover the Aiguille du Midi on a fascinating guided tour, where stories of exploration come to life and you learn to identify the majestic peaks surrounding you. Experience a true immersion alongside a passionate mountain guide.

Annecy, one of the best towns in the French Alps to visit in summer

Annecy, one of the best towns in the French Alps to visit in summer

Nicknamed the Venice of the Alps, Annecy is a charming gem with its picturesque canals weaving through the old town and its castle overlooking the narrow streets, all set within a stunning natural frame between lake and mountains.

During your visit, don’t miss one of the best places in the French Alps. Explore it on a guided tour where the history of the House of Savoy comes alive, or join a Food Tour that blends time travel with tastings of delicious local products, or enjoy a gourmet stroll through the city’s lively market!

A true natural treasure, Lake Annecy can be enjoyed in many ways—take a scenic cruise (we highly recommend adding a fondue tasting: an absolute delight!), cycle around the lake, soar above it in a paragliding flight, or hike to the surrounding heights for the best panoramic views. Share your wishes with us, and we’ll craft the perfect day to discover Annecy and its wonderfully blue lake.

Of course, many other towns in the French Alps are worth visiting. We especially recommend Chambéry, the historical capital of Savoy, for heritage enthusiasts, as well as strolling through the streets of Aix-les-Bains or along its peaceful lakeside!

Mont Blanc: the roof of Western Europe

Mont Blanc: the roof of Western Europe

Mont Blanc, towering at 4,810 meters, stands as the highest peak in Western Europe and a legendary symbol for countless mountaineers. Its glacier-covered summit overlooks the small town of Chamonix, recognized since the 18th century as the world capital of mountaineering. Its majesty is impossible to miss as you wander through the lively streets, where the spirit of the mountains is everywhere.

To admire this majestic giant, you can stay in Chamonix or gain a bit of altitude. The best views of Mont Blanc are undoubtedly from the summit of the Aiguille du Midi, where it seems almost within reach, but also along the entire Tour du Mont-Blanc trail.

The Tour du Mont-Blanc is France’s most famous and renowned long-distance hiking route. It offers an unmissable experience for all hiking enthusiasts, covering nearly 170 kilometers with breathtaking panoramas at the foot of Mont Blanc, across France, Switzerland, and Italy. Whether you wish to complete the entire circuit or simply explore its most remarkable stages, Agence 1786 organizes your trip from A to Z, ensuring an unforgettable mountain immersion!

Vanoise National Park: one of the best natural places in the French Alps

Vanoise National Park: one of the best natural places in the French Alps

In the French Alps, Vanoise National Park is a perfect paradise for hikers as well as nature and wide-open space lovers! With a guide, explore the trails and follow the footsteps of wildlife through absolutely stunning landscapes: the balconies of Bonneval-sur-Arc, the lakes of Bellecombe, the Col de la Vanoise, Lac Blanc, the Génépy Glacier, and Petit Mont-Blanc… Endless possibilities await to discover this fabulous territory, home to ibex, marmots, chamois, and even bearded vultures.

Our favorite time to hike in Vanoise National Park is undoubtedly autumn, when the peaks are often dusted with the first snow and, lower down, the trees blaze with fiery colors under which marmots busily prepare for winter in their burrows—a spectacle that never ceases to amaze!

The Mer de Glace: legendary glacier of the French Alps

The Mer de Glace: legendary glacier of the French Alps

When visiting Chamonix, don’t miss one of the region’s most iconic natural sites: the Mer de Glace, the largest glacier in the French Alps! Several options are available to reach it. With a guide, take the Montenvers cogwheel train, embark on a beautiful hike from Chamonix at the foot of the mountains, or traverse from Plan de l’Aiguille to Montenvers along a scenic balcony trail after ascending the Aiguille du Midi.

Once at the viewpoint overlooking the glacier tongue, adventure awaits as you uncover all its secrets: guided tours, excursions with a glaciologist, or even an introduction to glacier walking! The Mer de Glace reveals its grandeur and fragility, as well as its origins, evolution over time, and the challenges it faces today.

Bonneval-sur-Arc: one of the most picturesque villages in the French Alps

Bonneval-sur-Arc: one of the most picturesque villages in the French Alps

On the edge of Vanoise National Park lies a small village of incomparable charm: Bonneval-sur-Arc, undoubtedly one of the best places in the French Alps. Pause in this timeless haven during your nature excursions. Here, in the narrow, cobbled streets surrounded by quaint, flower-adorned stone houses, time seems to stand still. If you’re lucky, you might visit on a market day, when locals gather for a coffee and you can stock up on artisanal and local products.

Continue your journey, which will likely take you to the legendary Col de l’Iseran, a sublime playground for cyclists and motorbikers. At 2,770 meters above sea level, it offers a breathtaking viewpoint. But above all, the real spectacle unfolds along the route, from Bonneval-sur-Arc on one side to Val d’Isère on the other… We highly recommend it for a truly unforgettable visual experience!

The vineyards of Savoie

The vineyards of Savoie: symbols of Alpine terroir

A staple of Savoyard gastronomy, step inside the region’s estates and vineyards to discover the rich world of Savoie wine, whether in the Combe de Savoie, on the heights above Lake Bourget, or in the Chablais. Amidst the picturesque landscapes of vast vineyards stretching at the foot of the mountains, magic happens to create wines that are aromatic, full-bodied, and sometimes fruity.

At 1786, we guide you through the most emblematic grape varieties of Savoie and introduce you to the winemakers and artisans who elevate this elixir through authentic experiences. Choose a wine and cheese tasting or a tour of the Savoyard vineyards for an extraordinary immersion into the aromas of Chignin-Bergeron, Altesse, Mondeuse, and Pinot Noir…

Skiing in Val d'Isère

Ski resorts: iconic alpine landscapes in winter

At the first snowfall, the familiar hum of ski lifts comes to life in the heart of the mountains. The French Alps are home to some of the most renowned ski resorts in the world, ensuring you’ll find the perfect destination for your next ski holiday. Looking to unwind in the charm of a traditional mountain village? Megève, Courchevel, and Val d’Isère are ideal, with their stunning wooden and stone houses and quaint cobbled streets, perfect for strolling after a day on the slopes.

Seeking a family-friendly resort? Choose Chamonix, La Clusaz, or Morzine & Les Gets, where winter is full of activities that delight children. For sporty enthusiasts, don’t miss Tignes, Méribel, and Val Thorens.

For inspiration for your next ski vacation in France or Switzerland, discover all our getaway ideas in Courchevel, Megève, and even Crans-Montana, Verbier, and Zermatt!

Croix du Nivolet

Mountain ranges: a true Alpine nature immersion

Among the best places in the French Alps, the many mountain ranges that stretch across the region offer the perfect setting to recharge, marvel at nature, breathe in the fresh air, and rejuvenate your energy. Our favorites include the Aravis near Annecy, the Bauges above Chambéry and Lake Bourget, and the Chartreuse around Grenoble. These areas are true little paradises for hiking and mountain biking, with charming peaks to climb and picturesque trails to explore!

Yvoire and the shores of Lake Geneva

Yvoire and the shores of Lake Geneva

Just as charming as Bonneval-sur-Arc, Yvoire welcomes you with its enchanting medieval atmosphere. Perched on the shores of Lake Geneva, a visit to the village lets you slow down time as you explore artisan shops, wander through narrow streets watched over by its castle, and admire the tranquil waters of the lake.

While in Yvoire, don’t miss the chance to cross into Switzerland to discover the treasures along Lake Geneva, from the city of Geneva on one side to Montreux on the other. You can even venture further inland with an excursion to Gruyères, a picturesque Swiss town famous for its cheese and chocolate!

Want to admire the best places in the French Alps on a tailor-made journey? Agence 1786 plans your itinerary from A to Z according to your wishes, including private transfers, bookings at your dream accommodations, authentic and exclusive experiences throughout your stay, and delicious dinners to discover the local gastronomy. Share your preferences with us, and we’ll get back to you with a personalized quote! To learn more, explore all of our services.

1786