One of the largest regions in France, the Rhône-Alpes covers vast swaths of snowy peaks with perfect skiing conditions. Lakes, resorts and quaint historic villages complete the idyllic winter wonderland image in this diverse terrain. Bring your snowboard to revel in the thick snow that carpets the French Alps.
Glimpse charming mountain culture in the village of ChamonixOpens in a new window. Appreciate spectacular views from the Aiguille du Midi Cable Car, the Tramway du Mont Blanc or the Montenvers funicular. Gaze up at the imposing Mont BlancOpens in a new window, Western Europe’s highest peak at a height of 15,780 feet (4,810 meters). It is popular for mountaineering, skiing and hiking.
Travel through snowy valleys and purchase ski passes at resorts such as MegèveOpens in a new window, Courchevel and Val-d’IsèreOpens in a new window. AnnecyOpens in a new window has the enchanting Annecy Old Town and is known as the Venice of the French Alps for its canals and picturesque Lake AnnecyOpens in a new window.
For a change of scene, peruse the sights of LyonOpens in a new window, one of France’s largest metropolitan areas. Highlights include the Lyon City Hall, the Museum of Fine ArtsOpens in a new window and the splendid Tête d’Or Park.
Travel 70 miles (120 kilometers) southeast to GrenobleOpens in a new window, known as the Gateway of the Alps. Stroll through the fantastic Grenoble Old Town, browse artifacts in the Museum of GrenobleOpens in a new window and learn about the archeology of the region at the Dauphinois MuseumOpens in a new window. Ride the Grenoble-Bastille Cable CarOpens in a new window to Fort de la BastilleOpens in a new window for excellent views.
The climate in the region varies dramatically depending on elevation, with warm, wet weather in the cities of Lyon and Grenoble and freezing, snowy winters in the peaks. Try vin de Savoie, the wine made from grapes produced in the region. Culinary specialties include fondue and smoked meats.
Find the region in the southeastern part of France on the Swiss and Italian borders. It is just north of the Côte d’Azur with its beach resorts facing the Mediterranean Sea. Fly to Lyon Saint Exupéry Airport and rent a car to travel around the region.
The Rhône-Alpes contains historic cities and some of Europe’s best skiing zones.
