Travel

Going on a ski trip isn't just about reaching your destination. It’s also about:

• Driving through snow-covered villages

• Enjoying a coffee break overlooking the peaks

• Admiring alpine landscapes along the way

• Sharing a unique moment before even stepping onto the slopes

With a comfortable car, the journey becomes an integral part of the experience.

With its vivid blue lakes, picture-perfect villages, and dramatic Alpine vistas, Haute-Savoie is the ideal destination for a road trip filled with unforgettable sights. Here is a selection of spots you should not miss, whether you are visiting for a weekend or an extended getaway.

Annecy — The Venice of the Alps

A trip to Annecy is an absolute must. Its crystal-clear lake, old town laced with flower-lined canals, and relaxed atmosphere make it a standout stop.

Must-do activities:

• Stroll through the old town

• Walk or cycle along the lakeshore

• Relax at a waterfront cafe terrace

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc — Alpine Royalty

As the world capital of mountaineering, Chamonix offers direct, breathtaking views of Mont Blanc.

Yvoire — Lake Geneva's Medieval Gem

Officially listed among The Most Beautiful Villages of France.

Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval — Wild and Majestic

One of the most impressive natural sites in the Alps.

Megève — Alpine Elegance

A stylish yet authentic mountain resort.

Explore Haute-Savoie on the Open Road

The beauty of Haute-Savoie lies in its unexpected treasures — every detour reveals a hidden gem.

Haute-Savoie in winter is an exceptional destination, renowned for its snow-covered landscapes, ski resorts, and unique Alpine vistas. Whether you are a winter sports enthusiast or simply looking for a change of scenery, the region offers a wide range of activities. To make the most of these sites, traveling by car remains the most convenient option, especially for reaching resorts and mountain areas.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is one of the most iconic winter destinations. Easily accessible by car, this legendary resort lets you experience the Mont Blanc massif in all its glory. Skiing, snowshoeing, or simply strolling through the lively town center make Chamonix a must-visit. The ride up to the Aiguille du Midi also offers spectacular views over the snow-capped peaks.

Lake Annecy, though quieter in winter, remains an unmissable stop. Easily reached by car, it offers a peaceful atmosphere and magnificent views with the snow-covered mountains as a backdrop. It is the perfect spot for a stroll or for discovering Annecy's old town from a different perspective.

For a quintessential Alpine experience, head to Megève. Accessible by car from Albertville or Sallanches, this ski resort blends charm, fine dining, and winter activities. Skiing, sledding, horse-drawn sleigh rides, or shopping in the pedestrian center—Megève delivers a truly unique atmosphere.

Col de la Forclaz remains accessible in winter, weather conditions permitting. By car, it takes you to an exceptional viewpoint overlooking Lake Annecy and the surrounding snowy peaks—an ideal spot for sweeping views and memorable photos.

Finally, for complete immersion in nature, Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval offers a magical winter setting. You can drive up to the valley, then head out on snowshoes or enjoy the quiet of the snow-covered mountains, far from the bustling resorts.

Exploring Haute-Savoie by car in winter makes it easy to connect these sites while enjoying complete freedom. It is the ideal way to adjust your itinerary based on the weather, visit multiple resorts, or venture out to more secluded spots.

In short, touring Haute-Savoie by car in winter is the best way to experience everything the region has to offer. From Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Megève to Lake Annecy and the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval, each stop immerses you in a unique winter wonderland.

Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an iconic Haute-Savoie destination in both summer and winter. Packed with dramatic landscapes, mountain adventures, and authentic villages, the area offers endless sights to explore. Renting a car through Europcar gives you the total freedom and convenience needed to make the most of your stay and easily explore the surrounding valley.

Aiguille du Midi and the Heart of Chamonix

Right in Chamonix, taking the cable car up to the Aiguille du Midi is an absolute must. Departing directly from the town center, it sweeps you up to over 3,800 meters for breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding Alps. While in the area, you can also visit the famous Mer de Glace glacier or set off on numerous hiking trails.

The town center itself is well worth a stroll. Park your vehicle in one of the central parking garages, then head out on foot to enjoy the vibrant streets, shops, and restaurants. Having your Europcar rental nearby means you can comfortably reach the town center while keeping total flexibility for day trips.

Les Houches and Argentière

A few minutes away by car, the village of Les Houches offers a quieter, more authentic setting. Ideal for families, it features plenty of outdoor activities and stunning viewpoints over the Chamonix valley.

For nature lovers, driving up to Argentière is a highlight. This area serves as a gateway to magnificent hiking routes and sweeping glacier views. Having a car is especially handy for reaching these spots, which are often less accessible by public transit.

Mountain Passes and Border Excursions

A bit further out—roughly 30 to 40 minutes away—you can drive to scenic spots like the Col des Montets, an incredible location for observing Alpine wildlife and flora. You can even cross into nearby Switzerland to take in new, dramatic landscapes.

Why Rent a Car in Chamonix?

Exploring Chamonix and its surroundings by car offers complete freedom, letting you adapt your plans on the fly depending on your mood and the weather. Easily switch between outdoor sports, sightseeing, and relaxing breaks, while reaching hidden, less-crowded spots.

Choosing an Europcar rental car for your stay in Chamonix ensures a practical, comfortable solution tailored to mountain driving conditions—allowing you to experience the region without limits.

Explore the Alps with Peace of Mind

Visiting Chamonix by car is the best way to uncover its top sights and hidden gems. From the Aiguille du Midi to Argentière and the neighboring villages, every stop delivers a memorable experience. Hit the road, explore the valley, and enjoy the ultimate Alpine escape with Europcar.

Haute-Savoie is the perfect destination for a summer getaway. Featuring turquoise lakes, majestic peaks, and pristine natural landscapes, the region is ideally suited for a road trip. To make the most of each location, traveling by car remains the most convenient option—allowing you to connect top sights effortlessly and reach more remote spots.

Lake Annecy

Lake Annecy is an ideal starting point. Easily accessible by car, it offers numerous parking options both around the lake and in the town of Annecy. You can explore various beaches, drive around the lake, or stop by charming surrounding villages. Having a car also gives you the flexibility to escape to quieter, less crowded spots.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

From Annecy, reaching Chamonix-Mont-Blanc takes about a 1-hour-and-15-minute drive, offering spectacular Alpine views along the way. Once there, a vehicle makes it easy to move between key attractions, whether heading to the Aiguille du Midi cable car or accessing trailhead parking for hikes.

Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval

For complete immersion in nature, drive through the Sixt Valley to reach the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval. The scenic drive is an experience in itself, surrounded by dramatic mountain vistas. On-site parking allows easy access to the main hiking trails.

Col de la Forclaz

The Col de la Forclaz is another top scenic drive. The winding climb rewards you with breathtaking lookouts and leads directly to one of the most stunning panoramic views over Lake Annecy—a must-stop on any lake tour.

Why Explore Haute-Savoie by Car in Summer?

Traveling by car brings maximum freedom and flexibility. You can set your own pace, pull over in traditional villages, or discover hidden scenic overlooks. It is also the best way to optimize your time and fully experience the diverse landscapes spanning from lakeshores to alpine peaks.

Summary

A summer road trip through Haute-Savoie is the ultimate way to discover the region's finest destinations. From Lake Annecy and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc to the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval and the Col de la Forclaz, every stop promises an unforgettable experience.

Located on the doorstep of Switzerland, Annemasse is a strategic destination for exploring both Haute-Savoie and the Geneva region. Thanks to its ideal position between lake and mountains, it serves as an excellent starting point for discovering the finest sites in the Alps. To make the most of your trip, traveling by car remains the most convenient option, with an Europcar rental giving you complete freedom of movement.

Mont Salève — The Balcony of Geneva

Just a few minutes' drive from town lies Mont Salève, known as the "balcony of Geneva." Easily accessible by car, it offers breathtaking panoramic views over Lake Geneva and the Swiss skyline. It is the perfect spot for a hike, a scenic picnic, or simply soaking in the landscape.

Geneva and Lake Geneva

Only a 15-minute drive away, Geneva awaits across the border. Having an Europcar rental car gives you total flexibility to cross over and explore this international hub, including its iconic Jet d'Eau fountain, historic old town, and rich collection of museums.

Lake Annecy and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For a scenic getaway, Lake Annecy is about a 45-minute drive away. Enjoy its beaches, water sports, or a stroll through Annecy's old town without worrying about public transit schedules.

Mountain enthusiasts can also reach Chamonix-Mont-Blanc in roughly an hour. The drive itself delivers incredible Alpine scenery, leading straight to world-famous sites like the Aiguille du Midi or the Mer de Glace glacier.

Why Rent a Car in Annemasse?

Having a vehicle is a major advantage when exploring Annemasse and its surroundings. It allows you to maximize your time, blend different activities into a single day, and reach destinations that are tough to access by public transport.

Choosing an Europcar rental car in Annemasse gives you a practical, comfortable solution tailored both to cross-border drives and mountain excursions—giving you total freedom to plan your journey as you wish.

Explore the Region with Total Freedom

Visiting Annemasse by car unlocks a wide variety of destinations. From Mont Salève and Geneva to Lake Annecy and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, every leg of the journey promises a unique experience. Hit the road and explore the region with total peace of mind with Europcar.

Situated in the heart of the Alps, Albertville is an ideal gateway for exploring Savoie and accessing some of the region's top mountain resorts. Famous for hosting the 1992 Winter Olympics, the town blends rich heritage, stunning natural scenery, and direct access to Alpine landscapes. To make the most of your trip, traveling by car remains the most convenient option, with an Europcar rental offering maximum freedom and flexibility.

The Medieval Village of Conflans

In town, a visit to the medieval village of Conflans is a must. Easily accessible by car with nearby parking, this historic hilltop district overlooks the valley. Take a stroll along its cobblestone streets, admire the old ramparts, and browse local artisan shops.

Megève and Lake Annecy

Albertville also serves as an excellent launchpad for regional day trips. Just a 30-minute drive away lies the famous resort of Megève, renowned for its Alpine charm and year-round outdoor activities. Whether heading out for a day on the slopes or a scenic walk, getting there by car is quick and effortless.

Another top destination nearby is Lake Annecy, located about 45 minutes away. Having an Europcar rental car makes it easy to head out for a day trip to enjoy the lakeshore beaches, water sports, or Annecy's historic center.

The Bauges Mountains and Scenic Passes

Nature lovers can easily venture into the Bauges mountain range (Massif des Bauges) or drive up to the Col de la Forclaz, both offering breathtaking views over the surrounding peaks. Having a vehicle makes accessing these pristine, less-crowded areas simple.

Why Rent a Car in Albertville?

A vehicle is a major asset when visiting Albertville and the surrounding region. It allows you to tailor your itinerary, visit diverse destinations in a short time, and transition smoothly between valleys, lakes, and mountain peaks.

Choosing an Europcar rental car in Albertville gives you a comfortable, practical solution tailored to mountain driving—ensuring total independence whether you are traveling for leisure, a weekend break, or business.

Explore the Alps with Total Freedom

Exploring Albertville by car makes it easy to discover both local highlights and the finest sites across Savoie and Haute-Savoie. From Conflans and Megève to Lake Annecy, every stop offers a memorable experience. Hit the road and explore the region with total confidence with Europcar.

Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman), Thonon-les-Bains is an ideal gateway for exploring Haute-Savoie between lake and mountain. Renowned for its exceptional natural setting and peaceful atmosphere, the town serves as an excellent starting point for regional excursions. To make the most of your stay, traveling by car remains the most convenient option, with an Europcar rental providing total freedom and comfort.

Thonon-les-Bains and the Lakefront

In town, Thonon-les-Bains offers several highlights. The Port de Rives and its lakeside promenade deliver magnificent views across Lake Geneva, perfect for a relaxing walk. You can also ride the iconic Thonon funicular connecting the upper town center to the harbor, or visit the town's famous thermal baths.

Yvoire and Avoriaz

With an Europcar rental car, exploring the surrounding highlights is effortless. Just a few minutes away lies the medieval village of Yvoire. Listed among The Most Beautiful Villages of France, it charms visitors with its flower-lined streets, historic ramparts, and stunning lake views.

About a 30-minute drive into the mountains leads to the resort of Avoriaz. Whether for hiking in summer or skiing in winter, it makes an ideal day trip destination from Thonon.

Alpine Peaks and Scenic Excursions

Nature lovers can easily venture up to Mont Salève or head further south toward Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, reachable in just over an hour. These scenic drives showcase the full diversity of Alpine landscapes—from tranquil lakeshores to high-mountain valleys and iconic peaks.

Why Rent a Car in Thonon-les-Bains?

Having a vehicle is a major asset when visiting Thonon-les-Bains and the Chablais region. It allows you to set your own pace, access quieter, off-the-beaten-path locations, and combine lakeshore sights with high-altitude adventures in a single trip.

Choosing an Europcar rental car in Thonon-les-Bains gives you a practical, flexible solution tailored to Haute-Savoie roads—ensuring total independence whether you are on vacation or traveling for business.

Explore Haute-Savoie with Total Freedom

Visiting Thonon-les-Bains by car unlocks the finest destinations around Lake Geneva and the nearby Alps. From Yvoire and Avoriaz to the surrounding mountain passes, every stop promises a unique experience. Hit the road and explore Haute-Savoie with complete confidence with Europcar.