The Mountain Massifs of Savoie

Discover the majestic massifs of Savoie — their passes, ski resorts, towns and lakes. A paradise for mountain lovers.

Located at the heart of the French Alps, the Savoie department is a true paradise for mountain lovers. Its mountain massifs offer breathtaking landscapes, varied outdoor activities and a rich history. In this article, we'll explore the most iconic massifs of Savoie and their unique features, including the passes with their elevations, the resorts and towns surrounding them, and lists of lakes for each massif.

La Vanoise: France's first national park

La Vanoise is one of the most famous massifs of Savoie. It is best known for being the first national park in France, established in 1963. This park provides essential protection for the region's flora and fauna, with many animal species including the ibex, chamois, bearded vulture and marmot.

Passes:

1. Col de l'Iseran — Elevation: 2,764 metres
2. Col du Mont-Cenis — Elevation: 2,083 metres
3. Col du Petit Saint-Bernard — Elevation: 2,188 metres

Resorts:

1. Val-d'Isère
2. Les Arcs
3. La Plagne

Towns:

1. Bourg-Saint-Maurice
2. Modane

Lakes:

1. Lac du Mont-Cenis
2. Lac de la Sassière

Hiking enthusiasts will find many marked trails to explore the natural beauty of La Vanoise, and wildlife lovers will have the chance to observe these emblematic creatures in their natural habitat. The park also offers opportunities for climbing, mountain biking and winter sports.

The Bauges: a haven of tranquillity

The Bauges massif is another gem of Savoie, less well-known than La Vanoise but just as charming. It is renowned for its wild beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The Bauges offer a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to lush pastures, and are an ideal place for hiking, cycling and climbing.

Passes:

1. Col du Frêne — Elevation: 940 metres
2. Col de l'Arpettaz — Elevation: 1,581 metres
3. Col de Tamié — Elevation: 907 metres

Resorts:

1. La Féclaz
2. Le Revard
3. Les Aillons-Margériaz

Towns:

1. Chambéry
2. Albertville

Lakes:

1. Lac d'Annecy
2. Lac du Bourget

The Bauges massif is also home to several picturesque mountain villages, where you can discover traditional Savoyard architecture and taste local specialities. Don't miss the raclette, fondue and cheeses of the region.

Les Grandes Rousses and La Maurienne: a skiing paradise

For winter-sports enthusiasts, the Grandes Rousses and Maurienne massifs offer countless opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. World-renowned ski resorts such as Les Deux Alpes, Alpe d'Huez and Val d'Isère are located in these massifs and attract skiers from around the world.

Passes:

1. Col du Galibier — Elevation: 2,645 metres
2. Col du Lautaret — Elevation: 2,058 metres
3. Col du Télégraphe — Elevation: 1,566 metres

Resorts:

1. Les Deux Alpes
2. Alpe d'Huez
3. Valmeinier

Towns:

1. Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne
2. Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne

Lakes:

1. Lac de Grand Maison
2. Lac Blanc
3. Lac des Cerces

In summer, these regions also offer exciting outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking and climbing. The high-altitude lakes, rivers and magnificent alpine landscapes add to the appeal of the area.

La Chartreuse: a paradise for nature lovers

The Chartreuse massif is renowned for its lush landscapes, dense forests and many caves. It is the perfect place for nature lovers, offering breathtaking hiking trails, opportunities for wildlife observation and rare tranquillity.

Passes:

1. Col de Porte — Elevation: 1,324 metres
2. Col du Granier — Elevation: 1,134 metres
3. Col de Cucheron — Elevation: 1,130 metres

Resorts:

1. Le Sappey-en-Chartreuse
2. Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse

Towns:

1. Chambéry
2. Grenoble

Lakes:

1. Lac d'Aiguebelette
2. Lac de Charavines
3. Lac de Saint-André

The Grande Chartreuse monastery, located in this massif, is the cradle of the Carthusian order and is one of the most isolated monasteries in the world. You can visit the surroundings of this monastery, but access to the interior is limited.

Please note that these lists are not exhaustive — many other passes, resorts, towns and lakes are waiting to be discovered in these magnificent massifs of Savoie. Each massif has its own personality and unique attractions, offering an unforgettable experience to visitors. Enjoy this corner of paradise at the heart of the French Alps.