Located in Haute-Savoie, at the foot of the majestic Mont-Blanc, the resorts of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains and Megève embody the authenticity and elegance of the French Alps. Their reputation, which extends far beyond France's borders, is based on their historic heritage, breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and tourist infrastructure. Although these two resorts are neighbors, they each offer a unique experience, while sharing a natural symbiosis that makes them a privileged destination for mountain lovers in summer and winter alike.
SAINT-GERVAIS-LES-BAINS: BETWEENTRADITION AND MODERNITY
Nestled at an altitude of 850 meters, the town of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains is a jewel in the crown of Haute-Savoie, well worth a visit. Renowned for its thermal baths for over two centuries, Saint-Gervais owes part of its renown to its natural, therapeutic hot springs. Since the 19th century, the warm, mineral-rich waters have attracted curists from all over Europe to enjoy their benefits. Today, the spa offers modern treatments while preserving this historic tradition.
But Saint-Gervais is also a renowned winter sports resort. As part of the"Évasion Mont-Blanc" ski area, it provides access to over 400 kilometers of slopes, offering an exceptional playground for winter sports enthusiasts. In addition to skiing, other activities such as snowshoeing, tobogganing and cross-country skiing attract a diverse clientele, from families to seasoned athletes. Nearby, the famous"Tramway du Mont-Blanc", one of France's last rack-and-pinion trains, takes visitors up to 2,372 meters to the aiguille du Nid d'Aigle, an ideal starting point for mountaineers wishing to conquer the roof of Europe.
MEGÈVE: LUXURY AND REFINEMENT
While Saint-Gervais has a quieter, more traditional atmosphere, Megève, just a few kilometers away, radiates chic and refinement. Created in the 1920s by the Rothschild family to compete with the Swiss resorts, Megève quickly became a favorite of French and international high society. Even today, it attracts celebrities and the elite, while retaining its authentic Alpine village charm.
Like Saint-Gervais, Megève is part of the"Évasion Mont-Blanc" ski area, with many kilometers of pistes for downhill, snowboard and cross-country skiers. But what really sets Megève apart is its unique atmosphere. In winter, the cobbled streets of the old town, illuminated with garlands and decorated with care, evoke a postcard setting. The heart of the village is marked by a lively central square, lined with luxury boutiques, art galleries and gourmet restaurants, some with Michelin stars. Gastronomy plays a central role in Megève's identity. Many renowned chefs have made the area their home, offering dishes that blend Savoyard tradition with culinary innovation.
LA FOLIE DOUCE SAINT-GERVAIS/MEGÈVE: THE MEETING POINT OF PARTY AND SKI
Beyond their sublime landscapes and shared history, Saint-Gervais and Megève share a unique attraction that epitomizes the alliance of alpine party and adrenaline: La Folie Douce. The concept, which originated in Val d'Isère and was soon exported to other resorts, first appeared between Saint-Gervais and Megève, at the summit of Mont Joux, at an altitude of 1950 metres.
La Folie Douce Saint-Gervais/Megève is more than just a high-altitude restaurant. It's a true entertainment venue where music, gastronomy and festivities come together in an effervescent atmosphere. During the day, skiers come to dine in an exceptional setting, with a breathtaking view of the Mont-Blanc massif. The two restaurants each offer quality, local cuisine, but stand out by offering two different dining options: La Fruitière offers refined cuisine, combining local produce and creativity, in a setting that blends Alpine tradition and modernity. It's the ideal place for a gourmet meal with a breathtaking view of Mont Blanc. La Petite Cuisine, meanwhile, operates as a self-service restaurant, perfect for families and groups of friends looking for a quick but quality break.
La Folie Douce attracts a cosmopolitan clientele, from young thrill-seekers to families who come to enjoy the friendly atmosphere. But above all, La Folie Douce is famous for its festive après-ski events, where DJs, singers and performers liven up the place, transforming the terrace into a gigantic open-air dancefloor. Here, the party begins in the early afternoon, to the sound of lively music, and continues until the slopes close. The contrast between the lively atmosphere and the majesty of the snow-covered peaks offers a unique experience, where the mountain becomes the stage for unforgettable moments.
TWO COMPLEMENTARY STATIONS
Although Saint-Gervais and Megève offer distinct atmospheres, they form a complementary duo, perfect for a holiday combining relaxation, sport and festivities. Visitors can easily switch from one to the other, enjoying the best of both worlds: the thermal baths in Saint-Gervais for a wellness break, followed by a Michelin-starred dinner in a Megève restaurant, or a day of intense skiing on the varied slopes of the Évasion Mont-Blanc ski area, with a stopover at Folie Douce to recharge the batteries before diving back into the euphoria of the descents.
A PROMISING FUTURE FOR THESE ICONIC RESORTS
As mountain tourism evolves to adapt to environmental challenges and new traveler expectations, Saint-Gervais and Megève continue to reinvent themselves, while preserving the soul that has made them so successful. The desire to maintain a balance between tourism development and nature preservation is at the heart of their future projects. Thanks to their dynamism, these two resorts remain essential destinations for anyone wishing to discover the French Alps in all their facets, whether for a winter or summer stay.
In short, Saint-Gervais and Megève, each with its own character, offer a rare complementarity in the Alpine landscape, making this resort duo the perfect choice for a memorable getaway in the heart of the mountains.
