The town of Megève in Haute-Savoie is world-renowned for its ski area. It is also a popular destination year-round thanks to its many tourist activities.
An eclectic destination with multiple facets
This small town located in the Mont-Blanc region, near Chamonix, is highly appreciated for the quality of the cultural events offered. Major sporting events punctuate the year, and the quality of the gourmet restaurants on its soil is widely recognized. Its proximity to the town of Chamonix allows for discovering Italy by taking the Mont Blanc tunnel.
Geographically, this town is located at the intersection of three alpine massifs: the Aravis range, the Giffre massif, and the Beaufortain massif. Thus, it is only natural that in winter, the Megève winter sports resort offers more than 300 km of slopes with a total of 88 ski lifts. This town possesses a particular elegance year-round due to its luxury hotels, designer boutiques, and the quality of its public facilities.
Several prestigious cultural and sporting events attract a large audience: the Snow Golf Cup, snow polo competitions, the Megève equestrian jumping, and a renowned jazz and blues festival.
Discover the heritage of the village
The center of Megève consists of alleys dating back to the Middle Ages that allow you to wander and discover the magnificent Priory Tower, the Magdelain Tower, and the Saint John the Baptist Church. These monuments are witnesses to the richness of the history of this alpine city, just like the very beautiful sun dial located in the main square. By moving away from the city center, you can follow several marked trails to discover the calvary and its fourteen oratory chapels. The Roman milestone located at the Jaillet pass is a testament to ancient times.
The Haut Val d’Arly Museum
This place features an authentic 19th-century farm that immerses you in the simple and harsh life of the mountain dwellers of that time. The various rooms of a traditional dwelling and everyday objects are testimonies of agricultural human activity. It is located at 88 Dr. Charles Socquet Street. Price: €3.50 for adults and €2.80 for children.
The best-rated hotels
Between hotels and rental apartments, there are many options for accommodation in Megève during a ski trip.
Depending on your budget, we have selected five hotels in Megève that offer excellent value for money and receive very good customer reviews:
Au Vieux Moulin
The hotel is located near shops, the post office, and the cable cars. It is equipped with a sauna, a beauty institute, and a heated outdoor pool open in summer. Its restaurant serves gourmet dishes as well as local specialties.
From €140 per night.
Grand Hôtel Soleil d’Or
This establishment is well located just 400 m from the sports center and 450 m from the nearest ski lift. The rooms are decorated in a contemporary style. You can enjoy the indoor pool and the chocolate shop located on the ground floor.
From €193 per night.
Le Lodge Park
This hotel is built like a traditional log cabin with luxurious amenities: bathtub, spa, gym, and indoor pool. Most suites and rooms have a balcony and a fireplace. Shops are nearby.
From €190 per night.
La Ferme du Golf
The hotel is well located in front of the ski lifts and the Mont d’Arbois golf course. The building is a typical Haute-Savoie chalet. You have private parking. The public shuttle takes you to the center of Megève.
From €145 per night.
Hôtel Les Cimes
A traditional establishment located in the city center. Many activities are possible from the hotel, such as a horse-drawn carriage ride in winter and hiking in summer. Tea and coffee are free during your stay. A nice address at a reasonable price.
From €82 per night.
Ideas for sports activities
Choosing this destination for a vacation allows you to discover many activities.
The Aquatic Center
To swim year-round, the aquatic center includes an Olympic pool, two paddling pools, a water play area, large slides, and an outdoor pool.
The Martinet Climbing Site
To get started with climbing, the Martinet site offers complete equipment for both young and old. Moreover, it is located in the city center. We recommend it for a climbing initiation.
Play the game “The Sources of the Forgotten Goddess”
This adventure game takes place in the Calvary area and lasts for 1 hour and 30 minutes. It requires the free download of the app. The start takes place in front of the tourist office.
Via Ferrata
Climbing the Via Ferrata of Megève, this route allows you to move on a rock thanks to the installed equipment: monkey bridge and walkways. This service is offered by the Megève guides’ office.
Megève Nature Trail
For running enthusiasts, the Megève Nature Trail is a demanding race held at the end of each July. The organizers offer races of 8 km, 16 km, 30 km, and 44 km as well as races for children. The events take place at the end of July over two days.
Fishing in Megève
Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the many nearby rivers such as the Foron, the Raut, and the Glapet. Lake Javen is also appreciated by vacationing anglers. The Megève Guides Office can point you to interesting lesser-known spots.
Cycling races
Finally, Megève organizes two major cycling races each year: the Megève Mont-Blanc Cycling and the MB race. The Megève Mont-Blanc Cycling takes place in mid-June each year. The MB race is a particularly demanding mountain bike race. It takes place at the beginning of July.
The panoramic playground
To please the children during your vacation, the panoramic playground in Megève is a must. Access is via the Jaillet cable car. The playground is free, but a pass is required to take the cable car. Many games are offered: inflatable castle, trampoline, climbing structure, big air bag, and swings. A space is available for picnicking and sunbathing. Open from 8/4 to 31/08. Address: 821, route de la Télécabine du Jaillet, 74120 Megève
Megève Market
This market, which highlights local producers, allows you to taste the cheese specialties of Haute-Savoie, the local charcuterie, as well as seasonal vegetable production. It is located at the Palais des Sports and is open every Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Public transport and access
The town of Megève offers various public transport options:
- The Meg Bus shuttles connect the main tourist sites of the town with two lines in summer and double in winter.
- To visit the Mont Blanc region, the Montenbus shuttle serves the 10 surrounding municipalities.
- For a magical moment with family, we recommend a visit to the town by horse-drawn carriage. You can choose from different routes. This service is open year-round from 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Bicycle rental allows you to explore the surroundings using the many marked trails.
To reach Megève, various solutions exist:
- By TGV to Sallanches then by bus.
- By car from the north, take the A40 motorway to Sallanches then by road. From the south, follow the A43 motorway to Albertville then by road.
- By plane, the two closest airports are Lyon-Saint-Exupéry and Geneva-Cointrin.
Town hall and tourist office
For your vacation, these two administrative services will provide you with many ideas for activities:
Megève Town Hall: 185 route du Jaillet open from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., except on weekends. Official website.
Megève Tourist Office: 70 rue Mgr Conseil open from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., except on weekends. Official website.
