Location: Savoy

Bonneval-sur-Arc in the upper Maurienne is one of the most beautiful villages in France. The natural-stone houses with shingle roofs seem out of another time; antennas and visible cables are forbidden. The village lies at the foot of the Col de l’Iseran, the highest paved alpine pass, and borders the Vanoise National Park.HighlightsAuthentic natural-stone villageOne of the…

The Lac d’Aiguebelette in western Savoy is one of the largest natural lakes in France and known for its emerald-green water, pleasantly warm in summer. To protect nature, motorboats are banned. Two small islands and quiet bathing bays make it a tranquil destination away from the crowds.HighlightsEmerald-green, warm waterMotorboats banned to protect natureTwo…

Pralognan-la-Vanoise is a tradition-rich mountaineering village on the edge of the Vanoise National Park and a classic starting point for tours to the Grande Casse, the highest peak in the Vanoise. Unlike the big ski resorts, Pralognan has kept its original character; trails and huts open up the high mountains.HighlightsGateway to the Vanoise National ParkStarting point for the Grande CasseUnspoilt mountaineering villageDense network of trails…

Founded in 1963, the Vanoise National Park was France's first and borders the Italian Gran Paradiso, home to large populations of ibex and chamois, with a dense network of trails and huts…

Val d'Isère and Tignes together form the high-alpine ski area Espace Killy, with summer glacier skiing on the Grande Motte. Highlights: Espace Killy ski area…

Les Trois Vallées link Courchevel, Méribel, Val Thorens and others into one of the largest connected ski areas in the world. Highlights: one of the largest ski areas in the world, Val…