Day Trip Annecy and Aravis from Chamonix

Have you established your base camp in Chamonix for your stay in the Alps? You'll be delighted to punctuate it with a day exploring the iconic surroundings and local culture. We propose an authentic experience, starting with a gourmet excursion in the heart of the Aravis Mountains, followed by a visit to the magnificent city of Annecy.

The landscapes of the Aravis Mountains offer a complete change from the Mont Blanc massif. You'll have the opportunity to explore the natural diversity that adds charm and beauty to the Alpine chain. During this day trip from Chamonix to Annecy and the Aravis Mountains, you'll reach your first stop while traveling through various panoramas in a modern and comfortable vehicle. Your driver will uncover the best spots along the way, providing you with stunning photo opportunities. You'll traverse lush forests, witness cascading waterfalls, green fields, and old wooden chalets. The prominent peaks of the Aravis, such as Pointe Percée, Tête de la Forclaz, Mont Charvet, and Pointe des Verts, will tower majestically.

Your first stop will take you to the heart of the mountains for an authentic local experience. You'll visit an authentic farm where farmers produce milk and cheese from the Haute-Savoie valleys. Exploring the farm, you'll encounter beautiful grazing cows and learn about the entire process of making the famous Reblochon cheese. You'll savor its creamy texture and discover the origin of its name, derived from the Savoyard dialect. Perhaps you'll even acquire all the secret ingredients for a perfect tartiflette, a typical dish of the Alps!

Continuing your day trip from Chamonix to Annecy and the Aravis Mountains, you'll have the opportunity to admire the picturesque villages along the route. These villages have preserved their character with traditions, stunning chalets, and Alpine architecture. In a warm ambiance at the foot of the mountains, you'll enjoy your lunch. You'll discover the delights of local gastronomy in a charming setting adorned with wooden beams, souvenirs, and red and white checkered tablecloths. It will provide you with a delicious glimpse of the diverse range of regional culinary specialties, accompanied by a glass of Savoie wine.

A leisurely ride with your driver will lead you to the heart of the unmissable Annecy. You'll get up close to its history and iconic monuments through a guided tour of the city. Strolling through the cobbled streets, you'll discover the numerous canals of the Thiou River, which add picturesque beauty to the old town. Crossing the sometimes narrow bridges, you'll journey through different eras thanks to the original architecture of the center. To conclude your day trip from Chamonix to Annecy and the Aravis Mountains, you'll continue your exploration along the shores of Lake Annecy. You'll stroll through the Jardin de l'Europe until you reach the famous Pont des Amours. You'll marvel at the stunning peaks of the Aravis, such as Parmelan and Tournette, overlooking the turquoise waters of the lake, providing breathtaking views. You'll also spot a few palaces that are remnants of a glorious past.

This day will offer you a condensed experience of all the pleasures our region has to offer! You'll have witnessed grandiose landscapes and a cultural heritage that still thrives in our mountains. You'll have connected with the surrounding nature, its magnificence, and its tranquility. Your senses will have traveled through the exploration of the flavors of our local specialties. And your eyes will have marveled at the charms of beautiful Annecy.

Upon your return to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, you may wish to continue exploring the unmissable sites of the Alps. Don't hesitate to book a guided excursion to the legendary Aiguille du Midi or a tour of the Mer de Glace!