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Alps Mountains
Bordered by Switzerland and Italy, Savoie rises from the southern shores of Lake Geneva and reaches up to the massive Mont-Blanc. In alpine villages, the wooden chalets are typical in the region.
The French Alps boast some of the world's most popular ski resorts, but the mountains and their lakes also make for great summer retreats and provide numerous activities. Paragliding is a very popular one. |
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Annecy
Capital of Haute-Savoie, Annecy is one of the most charming and attractive cities in the Alps, set at the northern tip of Annecy Lake and surrounded by mountains. Its small medieval quarter is laced with canals, flower-covered bridges and narrow cobblestone arcaded streets.
The Palais de l'Isle, a 12th century prison in the middle of the Thiou Canal, is the icon of the city. Annecy lake is an ideal recreational place providing all kinds of activities. |
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Chambéry
At the crossroads between the lakes and the mountains, Chambéry is a city of art and history. It manages a happy blend of ancient and contemporary styles. Its best-loved monument and symbol of the city is the extravagant Fontaine des Elephants, standing on the boulevard de la Colonne.
The city retains its Italian-and French-influenced culture. The covered arcades and wide boulevards are the charms of the pedestrian old town. |
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Lyon
Lyon, France's second major city, is the main hub of the Rhone-Alpes region. Notre-Dame de Fourviere basilica, visible from all over the city, is the symbol of Lyon and offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Old Lyon, the Part-Dieu and Croix-Rousse districts as well as of the Saone and Rhone rivers. It can be reached by the funicular railway called "ficelle" or by steep winding streets and stairways. |
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Pérouges
Some 30 km northeast of Lyon, this wonderfully preserved hilltop village with its medieval houses and narrow cobblestone streets surrounded by ramparts is one of the most beautiful villages in France.
Restoration of its historic buildings and a new influx of artisans have brought new life into Pérouges. The village main square is shaded by a huge lime tree planted in 1792 to honor the French Revolution. |
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