The Alps is a magical landscape with lots to offer visitors. The area is so vast though that it can be difficult to decide exactly where to go and what to see, especially for first-time visitors. So, what are the things that you really must see while in the Alps? We’ve listed our top three Alpine sights that should not be missed.
Haute-Savoie
Although famous for skiing and snowboarding, the region of Haute-Savoie has much more to offer visitors. At Aiguille du Midi, which is home to Chamonix’s mountaineering capital, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views from Europe’s highest cable car system. At 1,807 metres, Aiguille du Midi’s cable car currently holds the world record for the highest vertical ascent. This cable car takes you as close to Mont Blanc as is possible via a lift system. It’s also easily accessible.
To the north of the Haute-Savoie region is the resort of Flaine. At this cultural and artistic hub, you can view stunning open-air sculptures by artists such as Pablo Picasso and Jean Dubuffet. For those looking for a quiet stroll in pretty surroundings, Annecy, with its pastel-coloured houses, is not to be missed. With its cobbled streets and canals, it’s easy to see why this picturesque town is often referred to as ‘the Little Venice of the Alps’. With views of the Thiou River and Lake Annecy, the town is also home to an art and natural history museum.
Lakes
The Alps aren’t only famous for their spectacular slopes and mountain views; they’re just as renowned for their awe-inspiring lakes and thermal pools. Among the most well-known bodies of water in the area, Lake Geneva borders France and Switzerland. The largest of all the lakes in the Alps and spanning 580 square kilometres, Lake Geneva boasts some of the most luxurious spas in the entire mountain range. Overlooking Lake Geneva is Evian-les-Bains, a historical spa town that’s world-famous for its mineral water. Also stunning and definitely worth a visit are Lake Garda, Lake Como, Lake Constance, and Lake Bled. Not only are the Alpine lakes great for spa resorts, they’re also perfect for adventure seekers as they provide a range of sporting activities, like paddle boarding and kayaking. With awe-inspiring scenery, fun water sports, and therapeutic spas, the lakes has a charm that appeals to everyone.
Les Trois Vallees
This region in the Savoie area of southeast France is the world’s largest ski area in the world. Known as ‘the Three Valleys’, this breathtaking landscape has something for everyone. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the numerous winter sporting activities, ranging from skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, dog sledge riding, and more; whilst those who prefer a more relaxed vibe can take advantage of the thermal spa resorts. Les Trois Vallees can be enjoyed all year, with popular summer activities such as mountain biking, hiking, golf, fishing, etc. After exerting yourself with some sports, why not consider a leisurely stroll among the many picturesque towns on the slopes? The views in Le Trois Vallees are outstanding and there really is so much to take in. Regardless of what time of the year you’re planning on visiting though, you should make sure you check the snow forecast from pistepro.com so that you know what to expect and you can plan accordingly.
Conclusion
The Alps is an area of exceptional beauty and it can be quite overwhelming, especially for those who are visiting the area for the first time. With its incredible scenery, a range of sporting activities on offer, picturesque towns, and therapeutic lakes, the Alps has something for all tastes.