History & Alpine Charm
A Resort Born of Elegance
Megève was transformed from a traditional farming village into a world-renowned ski resort in the early 20th century, envisioned by the Rothschild family as a "French Saint-Moritz." Its development preserved the authentic Savoyard architecture, creating a unique blend of rustic charm and sophisticated luxury.
Architectural Harmony
The heart of Megève is its car-free medieval square, Place de l'Église, dominated by a 13th-century church. Cobbled streets wind past stone and wood chalets with flower-filled balconies. Unlike many modern resorts, Megève maintains a human-scale, village atmosphere, with all amenities within a gentle stroll.
Year-Round Mountain Jewel
While famed as a winter ski paradise, Megève blossoms into a green Alpine meadow in summer, offering hiking, golf, and horseback riding. Its microclimate ensures abundant sunshine, and the panoramic views of the Mont-Blanc massif provide a breathtaking backdrop in every season.
Key Facts
Altitude: 1,113 meters (3,650 ft) at the village.
Ski Domain: Part of the vast Evasion Mont-Blanc area (445 km of slopes).
Style: Authentic Alpine village with high-end luxury.
First Impressions of Megève
My first arrival in Megève was in winter, under a soft snowfall. The scent of wood smoke filled the air as horse-drawn carriages clip-clopped on the snowy streets. Stepping onto Place de l'Église felt like entering a living postcard. The contrast was stunning in summer: the same square was alive with a bustling market, the mountains a tapestry of green, and the sound of cowbells drifting from high pastures. This seamless transition between a chic winter wonderland and a peaceful summer sanctuary is the true magic of Megève.
Travel Guide & Planning
Essential Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Winter (Dec-Apr) for skiing. Summer (Jun-Sep) for hiking & festivals. Shoulder seasons (May, Oct) are quiet. |
| Getting There | Geneva Airport (GVA): 1h 15min drive. Train to Sallanches station, then bus/taxi. Private helicopter transfer available. |
| Getting Around | Village center is pedestrian. Free shuttle buses connect sectors. Electric taxis and horse-drawn carriages available. |
| Lift Passes | Evasion Mont-Blanc pass covers Megève & neighboring areas. Day passes and multi-day options. Book online for discounts. |
| Vibe | Upscale, family-friendly, relaxed. Less party-centric, more about refined Alpine living. |
Visitor Tips
Booking: Reserve accommodation, ski lessons, and top restaurants well in advance, especially for peak weeks.
Packing: Smart-casual attire for evenings. Good walking shoes for the cobbles. Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential year-round.
Budgeting: Megève is a luxury destination. Consider half-board options or apartments with kitchens to manage costs.
Non-Skiers: The village itself offers fantastic shopping, spas, ice skating, and scenic gondola rides.
Must-See Highlights
Place de l'Église & Medieval Village Center
Panoramic Views of the Mont-Blanc Massif
World-Class Alpine Spas & Wellness
Finding the Perfect Ski Run
Navigating the vast Evasion domain can be daunting. For beginners, the gentle, sunny slopes of Rochebrune are perfect. My favorite discovery was the "Princesse" run from the top of Mont d'Arbois – a long, scenic red that winds through forests with incredible views. For a truly local experience, head to the smaller, connected resort of Saint-Gervais. The best lunch spot isn't on the piste map: La Ferme de Moudon, a converted farm on the slopes serving incredible traditional food. Remember, the last run back to Megève village (the Chamois) can be tricky for beginners – take the gondola down if unsure.
Travel Experiences
Dog Sledding & Winter Adventures
Boutique Shopping on Rue de la Poste
Summer Hiking in Wildflower Meadows
Unique Seasonal Activities
- Skiing & Snowboarding: 445 km of slopes for all levels in the Evasion Mont-Blanc area.
- Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: A romantic tour of the village and surrounding forests.
- Paragliding: Tandem flights over the valley for unforgettable aerial views.
- Summer Gondola Rides: Take the cable car up for hiking trails and panoramic restaurants.
- Golf: Play on the 18-hole course with stunning mountain vistas.
- Local Markets: The Wednesday market is a feast for the senses with local produce and crafts.
A Summer's Day on the Alpages
One June morning, I took the Rocharbois gondola up from the village. The landscape transformed from tidy streets to vast, rolling alpages (high mountain pastures). I hiked for hours along marked trails, the only sounds being cowbells and my own footsteps. I stopped at a remote farm, L'Alpage, for a lunch of cured ham, tomme cheese, and a slice of blueberry tart, all made on-site. Later, I stumbled upon a summer ski jump competition—athletes launching onto a plastic surface. Descending as the sun dipped, the entire valley was bathed in golden light, a peaceful contrast to the winter buzz. Megève in summer is the Alps at their most serene.
Tips & Practical Notes
Safety & Mountain Etiquette
- Always check the piste map and weather forecast before heading out. Mountain weather changes rapidly.
- Stay on marked pistes and respect all closures to avoid avalanches and hazards.
- Wear a helmet for skiing/snowboarding. Consider insurance that covers mountain rescue.
- Drink plenty of water to combat altitude dehydration, even in winter.
Practical Advice
- The village center is car-free. Parking is available in paid underground lots on the periphery.
- Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. A few euros for good service in restaurants/bars is customary.
- Learn a few French phrases; a simple "Bonjour" and "Merci" are greatly appreciated.
- Book all activities, restaurants, and spa treatments as far in advance as possible.
Photography Tips
Golden Hour: The hour after sunrise and before sunset provides magical light on the Mont-Blanc range.
Village Charm: Early morning is best for capturing the empty, cobbled streets before the crowds arrive.
Action Shots: Use a fast shutter speed on the slopes. The Jaillet sector has great views for photographing skiers.
Night Scenes: The illuminated church and chalets make for beautiful evening shots. Use a tripod.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. Megève is excellent for beginners:
- Dedicated, gentle beginner areas at the foot of the slopes (Princesse, Fontaine).
- Top-quality ski schools with English-speaking instructors (ESF, Ski Horizon).
- Many long, easy blue runs to progress to, offering beautiful scenery.
- The village itself is flat and walkable, reducing stress off the slopes.
Megève offers a wealth of non-ski activities:
- Shopping: Luxury boutiques, local crafts, and art galleries.
- Wellness: World-class spas with Alpine treatments.
- Scenic Gondolas: Ride up for mountain restaurants and walking paths with epic views.
- Winter Activities: Ice skating, dog sledding, snowshoeing, horse-drawn sleigh rides.
- Cultural Visits: Visit the medieval village, the church, and local museums.
Yes, it's renowned as a top family destination:
- Excellent ski kindergartens and clubs for all ages.
- Safe, pedestrianized village center.
- Many hotels and chalets offer family suites, kids' clubs, and special menus.
- Activities like ice skating, gentle pony rides, and easy hikes appeal to all ages.
Megève offers a distinct experience:
- Vs. Courchevel: More authentic village charm vs. purpose-built luxury. Quieter, more relaxed apres-ski.
- Vs. Chamonix: Less extreme, more beginner/intermediate friendly. Focus on luxury and gastronomy over hardcore mountaineering.
- General Vibe: Megève is chic but understated, family-oriented, and values its historic village feel above sheer scale or difficulty.
Local Gastronomy
Classic Savoyard Cheese Fondue
Charcuterie & Savoyard Cold Cuts
Tartiflette & Other Hearty Alpine Dishes
Must-Try Savoyard Specialties
- Fondue Savoyarde: Melted cheese (Beaufort, Comté, Emmental) with white wine, perfect for sharing.
- Tartiflette: Baked dish of potatoes, reblochon cheese, lardons, and onions.
- Raclette: Melted cheese scraped onto potatoes, charcuterie, and pickles.
- Diots au Vin Blanc: Savoyard sausages simmered in white wine.
- Crozet: Small, square pasta typically served with cheese and ham.
- Fruit Tartes (Myrtille, Pomme): Delicious fruit tarts, especially blueberry.
Recommended Dining Spots
| Restaurant Name | Style & Vibe | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Le 1920 (Flocons de Sel) | 3-Michelin Star, Fine Dining | Exquisite tasting menus by chef Emmanuel Renaut. |
| L'Alpette | Mountain Restaurant (Rochebrune) | Stunning terrace views, amazing cheese soufflé. |
| La Ferme de Mon Père | Gastronomic, Historic Farmhouse | 2-Michelin star, creative takes on mountain cuisine. |
| Le Mazot | Authentic, Rustic Bistro | The place for fondue, raclette, and a lively atmosphere. |
| Le Matafan | Refined Brasserie | Classic French dishes in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting. |
Dining at a Traditional Mazot
One chilly evening, we dined at a tiny, traditional *mazot* (small wood cabin) restaurant. The air was thick with the smell of melted cheese and burning logs. We shared a pot of fondue, the ritual of swirling bread and avoiding losing it in the cheese creating instant camaraderie with neighboring tables. The main course was a hearty *pormonier* (potato and pork sausage). For dessert, the owner insisted we try the *gâteau de Savoie*, a local sponge cake. The experience was less about haute cuisine and more about soul-warming authenticity, accompanied by the sound of French folk music. It was a delicious immersion into Savoyard culture.
Accommodation & Stays
| Hotel / Property | Type & Style | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Les Fermes de Marie | Luxury Alpine Hamlet | Relais & Châteaux, spa, made of reclaimed chalets, exquisite dining. |
| Four Seasons Hotel Megève | 5-Star Luxury Hotel | Ski-in/ski-out, stunning spa, indoor pool, multiple restaurants. |
| L'Hôtel le Fer à Cheval | 4-Star Boutique Hotel | Centrally located, charming rustic-chic style, excellent restaurant. |
| Chalet de Mademoiselle | Luxury Catered Chalet | For exclusive groups, private chef, cinema, spa, stunning views. |
| Izak Chalets & Hôtel | Contemporary Design Hotel | Modern Alpine style, cozy bar, close to the lifts. |
Accommodation Tips
Location: For ski convenience, choose near the Rochebrune or Mont d'Arbois lifts. For pure village charm, stay near Place de l'Église.
Booking: Peak weeks (Christmas, February holidays) book a year in advance. Summer and late season offer better availability and value.
Consider Chalets: For families or groups, a catered or self-catered chalet can offer more space and privacy.
A Stay at a Traditional Mountain Chalet
We rented a self-catered wooden chalet just a short walk from the Princesse lift. Waking up to the sun hitting the peaks from our balcony was unforgettable. The chalet had a roaring fireplace, a well-equipped kitchen where we made breakfast with local pastries, and a hot tub on the deck. While luxurious hotels are plentiful, the chalet gave us a true sense of "living" in Megève. Evenings were spent playing board games by the fire after a day on the slopes. The owner, a local, left us a welcome hamper of reblochon, saucisson, and a bottle of local wine – a perfect start to an authentic Alpine stay.
Suggested Itineraries
Winter Weekend Getaway
Day 1 (Arrival): Check into hotel → Explore village & Place de l'Église → Fondue dinner.
Day 2 (Ski): Ski the Rochebrune sector → Lunch at L'Alpette → Après-ski at a slopeside bar → Spa evening.
Day 3 (Explore): Morning ski on Mont d'Arbois → Afternoon shopping & spa → Fine dining experience.
Day 4 (Departure): Horse-drawn carriage ride → Last stroll → Depart.
Summer Alpine Active Holiday (5 Days)
Day 1: Arrival & village exploration → Market visit (if Wednesday) → Scenic gondola ride.
Day 2: Hike to Lake Javen → Picnic lunch → Afternoon golf or tennis.
Day 3: Drive to Chamonix → Aiguille du Midi cable car → Mer de Glice glacier visit.
Day 4: Mountain biking or paragliding → Afternoon relaxation at a lakeside beach.
Day 5: Visit a local farm & cheese dairy → Farewell lunch → Departure.
Family Winter Holiday (7 Days)
Days 1-2: Settle in, ski lessons for kids, gentle family skiing, village discovery.
Day 3: Full day on the family-friendly Princesse area, sledging, visit to the ice rink.
Day 4: Non-ski day: dog sledding adventure, horse-drawn sleigh ride, swimming at AquaVercors.
Day 5: Ski to a different sector (Jaillet), lunch at a mountain restaurant with playground.
Day 6: Parents' morning skiing alone (using kids' club), family afternoon activity (e.g., cinema).
Day 7: Last morning of favorite activities, farewell lunch, departure.
Family-Friendly Skiing Itinerary
Summer Alpine Active Holiday
Winter Weekend Luxury Getaway
My Perfect Megève Day
It starts with a crisp morning ski on freshly groomed corduroy on the Mont Joux run, followed by a hot chocolate on the sunny terrace of La Caboche. After skiing, a leisurely lunch of salad and local cheese at a village bistro. The afternoon is for wandering the boutiques on Rue de la Poste and perhaps a visit to the spa for a massage. As dusk falls, a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snowy woods feels straight out of a fairy tale. Dinner is somewhere cozy, perhaps for a hearty tartiflette. The day ends with a quiet stroll under the stars, the illuminated church spire guiding the way back, lungs full of clean mountain air and heart full of Alpine peace. That, for me, is the essence of a day in Megève.