Megève

Because this is where it all starts

Weather : light snow -4.07° | Local hour : 09:50

Its name is known and recognized throughout the world, Megève is authentic, unique and timeless. Synonymous with quality of life and elegance, Megève is an essential destination for all lovers of mountains, gastronomy, well-being and also sports and cultural events. As one of the most popular mountain villages, Megève surprises with its refined luxury, authenticity and natural wealth. This Haute Savoie village has preserved the traces of its historical heritage and proudly displays its colors through its squares, its medieval village and its cobbled streets.
Megève, which takes its name from the Celtic "Mageva" meaning the village in the middle of the waters, was once a place conducive to agriculture. However, it was very quickly coveted by the first tourists, in search of nature, healing and clean air. After the annexation of Savoy to France, the village gradually developed and hosted the first ski contest in 1914. Valued by the texts of a journalist, Mathilde Maige-Lefournier, a mountaineer from Chambéry, then by the Rothschild family who came on holiday to the Mont d'Arbois during the winter months, Megève became a fully-fledged ski resort renowned world wide.
Proud of this history, Megève has been able to revitalize its image over the years while preserving its authentic charm. It is thus possible to discover and marvel at it throughout the year, through its landscapes, its heritage, its haute cuisine and its events.

Discovering a preserved nature

Whether it is during a sunny spring hike, on horseback, on skis or at the turn of a cobbled alley, every moment spent in the Mont Blanc region is an invitation to contemplate the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Water areas, colorful meadows, steep peaks, eternal snows, green forests,... are all characteristic traits symbolizing Megève and its surroundings.
In winter, the magic of the landscape is at its peak. The summits are adorned with white and the village square takes on a magical allure. Winter activities abound: downhill skiing, polo, hiking, snowshoeing, sledding, dog sledding, ... Megève offers an infinite potential to satisfy the most experienced sportsmen and nature lovers with more of a contemplative spirit.

The ski domain

Designed to delight all skiers, beginners or enthusiasts, the Evasion de Megeve domain has 445 kilometers of slopes divided into several massifs among which you will find Mont-d'Arbois, Rochebrune, Jaillet and the Côte 2000. What is the international reputation of this domain? The diversity of landscapes that wonderfully combine the beauty of the slopes with the forests, alpine farms and surrounding massifs. Here everyone can practice the sort of skiing that suits him/her the best: gentle and reassuring slopes for families, wide open spaces and quality snow for skiers and snowboarders. Lastly, for all those who wish to practice their freestyle skiing, the resort is equipped with a dedicated area with a giant airbag. In addition, the resort has been offering the Mont Blanc Unlimited package since 2016. It also allows you to enjoy the mythical trails of the Chamonix Valley, Italy (Courmayeur) and Switzerland (Verbier 4 Vallées).
As for the beautiful summer season, the resort provides just as many outdoor activities conducive to recreation and sports adventures. Hiking, cycling, golf, paragliding, mountaineering, the alpine village knows how to welcome families, couples or groups of friends.

A village of many facets

Beyond the marvelous and unspoiled nature with incomparable and fabulous contrasts, Megève is also an ancient village mixing historical heritage and modernity. From small boutiques with timeless charm, to Michelin-starred restaurants passing by its old-fashioned houses and columned farms, Megève has many facets, each as surprising as the next! Come and admire the famous dungeon "Le Tour de Demi-Quartier" overlooking the church square, take the time to stroll in the city center, treat yourself to a sugary delight in one of the typical establishments, enjoy a ride in a horse-drawn carriage and discover what this pretty village has to offer! The wood and stone chalets of the village, finely designed and conceived, respect the soul of the village, blending perfectly into their environment. Surrounded by preserved massifs, elegant Megève will conquer your heart to the rhythm of the seasons.

Stars at your table

Highly coveted from its very beginnings, the Megève resort carries high the symbol of the French art de vivre. This is reflected in its architecture, in its cultural heritage and in its gastronomy. Whether it's starry addresses or more traditional appointments, the village's 89 restaurants are sure to delight you. Surrounded by local farms and producers promising wonderful fresh and seasonal produce, the chefs know perfectly how to combine the tradition of good recipes with the audacity of culinary innovations. Here, tourists and megevans come to appreciate the richness of the mountain and have the possibility to take part every Friday morning of the year in the marketplace. The stalls offer delicious products and specialties of the Savoy region for the greatest pleasure of both amateurs and connoisseurs.
With 3 Michelin-starred restaurants, Megève has made cooking a world-renowned way of life: Emmanuel Renault's establishment, "Flocons de Sel" with its 3 stars, "The 1920" held by Chef Julien Gatillon, 2 stars, Antony Tempesta, head of "La table de l'Alpaga" holds 1 star.

The events that make Megève

The spectacular panorama is complemented by a range of sporting and cultural events not to be missed. The international ski competitions, the Snow Golf Cup, the Polo Master tournament, the International Jumping, the mountain bike races, and the renowned music festivals: jazz, classical, blues, ... The village of Megève offers real highlights around sport, gastronomy and culture. Its famous Sports Palace hosts many championships throughout the year. Whatever season you come to visit this hilltop village, you will be delighted when you consult the event calendar that is proposed to you.
Beyond this cultural activity, Megève also offers various establishments for your moments of relaxation: hair salons, perfumeries and spas will be able to offer you top-of-the-range services for your well-being. On another note, the bars, the discotheque and the casino of the city welcome you at nightfall to enjoy the inevitable festive moments!