Savoie
FR
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One of France’s major ski departments, home to many renowned resorts. Like its Alpine neighbors, Savoie will delight nature lovers, winter sports enthusiasts, and fans of outdoor activities in both summer and winter. Also worth noting are some charming towns and villages, such as Aix-les-Bains or Bonneval-sur-Arc, the latter classified among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France."

Overview of Savoie

Key Facts

  • Location:
  • Local time: Heure : Savoie
  • Department code: 73.
  • Bordering departments:
  • Sub-prefectures: Albertville, Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne.
  • Number of municipalities:
  • Population: 431,174 inhabitants (2017).
  • Area: 6,028 km².
  • Density: 72 inhabitants/km².
  • Highest point: Grande Casse (3,855 m).
  • Lowest point: Champagneux (207 m).
  • Coastline: 0 km, no maritime access.
  • Highlights (rated ): Nature ; Culture ; Relaxation-holidays

History of Savoie

Geography and Environment

Culture and Economy

What to See in Savoie

It is one of France’s major "ski" departments, home to many of the country’s most renowned resorts. Like its Alpine neighbors, Savoie will delight nature lovers, winter sports enthusiasts, and fans of outdoor activities in both summer and winter. Also worth noting are some charming towns and villages, such as Aix-les-Bains or Bonneval-sur-Arc, the latter classified among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France."

What to Do in Savoie

Parc naturel régional du Massif des Bauges, Savoie, France
Parc naturel régional du Massif des Bauges, Savoie, France · © VoyageForum

Climate and Weather

With an average altitude of around 1,500 m, Savoie has a "mountain climate" with snowy winters. However, it is influenced by oceanic patterns (bringing disturbances), continental conditions (cold winters, hot summers), and Mediterranean effects (heatwaves and summer droughts), along with various local microclimates shaped by relief and altitude.

Transportation

Getting There

Getting Around

Accommodation

Food

Further Reading

Sub-guides