Manual for

TRAVEL

ORGANIZERS

www.savoie-mont-blanc.com

Savoie Haute-Savoie

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A region of contrasts

Location

Winter

Skiing

Other activities

Events

Lifestyle

Gastronomy

Wine

Culture

Some holiday programme ideas

Sports and leisure pursuits

Take to the water

Golf

Take to the mountains

Cycling

Take to the air

Events

Savoie Mont Blanc Tourisme - Services

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Here you can…

Climb a 3000-m peak in the morning and end the day with a swim in the crystal-clear waters of

Lake Annecy.

Visit the alpine pastures to see how delicious cheeses are made and then enjoy them at the end

of a gourmet meal in a Michelin-starred restaurant beside Lake Bourget.

Join the crowds at a great summer music festival and find silence and seclusion in the heart of a

regional park.

Cycle over a Tour de France pass and then relax in a spa in a luxury hotel.

Share the thrills of a rafting descent with friends and enjoy a wonderfully romantic dinner during

a lake cruise.

Savoie Mont Blanc is an outstandingly beautiful region that is famous for its

spectacular scenery. Here, Western Europe’s highest peak, snow-capped

Mont Blanc, is surrounded by France’s three largest natural lakes (Lake

Geneva, Lake Bourget and Lake Annecy).

Sharing borders with Switzerland and Italy, Savoie and Haute Savoie have a

unique history and a rich cultural heritage (art, gastronomy, architecture, etc.). In

addition, Savoie Mont Blanc’s geography makes it an outstanding destination for

sports lovers. Winter sports fans will find the world’s largest concentration of ski

areas with more than 100 ski resorts. In summer, it is an immense outdoor

playground that can cater to almost every sport.

A REGION OF CONTRASTS

Savoie Mont Blanc

ATTRACTIONS Breathtaking scenery:

• Spectacular mountains that culminate in Western Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc

(4,810 meters)

• France’s three largest natural lakes (Lakes Geneva, Bourget and Annecy)

• An unspoilt environment: 1 national park, 2 regional parks, 15 nature reserves

Fascinating history and culture:

• Charming towns, traditional villages and resorts

• Abbeys, churches, castles and forts throughout the area

• Music festivals, local markets and international sport events all year round

Major tourist area:

• 4851 restaurants, including 33 with Michelin stars

• 1119 hotels, including 145 with 4 or 5 stars and 623 with 2 or 3 stars

• 271 campsites, including 69 with 3 or 4 stars

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The two main cities (Chambéry and Annecy) are less than 3 hours from

Paris by train and less than 90 minutes from Lyon and Geneva international

airports by car.

By plane:

Lyon Saint Exupéry international airport: www.lyonaeroports.com

Geneva international airport: www.gva.ch

Chambery airport: www.chambery-airport.com (with international charter

flights during the winter season)

Grenoble airport: www.grenoble-airport.com

Shuttle bus services:

From Geneva airport to Chambery (1 hr 15 min)

Aerocar: www.aerocar.fr

From Lyon, Geneva and Chambery airports to the ski resorts

Altibus: www.altibus.com

By train: International train connections: www.raileurope.com

From London: Eurostar/TGV (change in Paris) and Eurostar direct snow-train

from London to the French Alps (Moûtiers and Bourg-St-Maurice) on Friday

evenings and Saturday mornings during the ski season.

From Brussels: Brussels-Lyon TGV and Thalys (to Moûtiers and Bourg-St-

Maurice during the winter season)

Intercity trains, changing in Paris or Lyon: www.sncf.com

Regional trains (TER) throughout the area: www.ter-sncf.com

Savoie Mont Blanc lies in the southeast corner of France, in the heart of

the French Alps and on the borders with Italy and Switzerland.

The Savoie Mont Blanc tourist destination covers the “départements” of

Savoie and Haute Savoie, and is part of the Rhone Alps Region.

LOCATION

Easy

ACCESS

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Easy

ACCESS By road:

A very efficient motorway and road network means it is easy to get to every

corner of Savoie Mont Blanc by car or bus.

Approximate distances in

kilometers

Distances in this chart are

measured following

highways and major roads.

These are not necessarily

the shortest routes.

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Albertville 1077 44 884 915 53 87 837 151 377 376 409 619 525 194

Amsterdam 1077 999 203 365 1027 978 286 921 1219 717 1387 502 1346 1150

Annecy 44 999 807 838 51 41 769 139 412 329 488 559 561 255

Brussels 884 203 807 197 833 785 110 728 1026 519 1193 307 1150 1038

Calais 915 365 838 197 865 817 110 759 1057 663 1225 288 1132 1069

Chambéry 53 1027 51 833 865 87 797 102 353 375 439 570 502 207

Geneva 87 978 41 785 817 87 748 148 448 288 534 538 597 247

Lille 837 286 769 110 110 797 748 691 963 610 1157 220 1064 990

Lyon 151 921 139 728 759 102 148 691 303 379 470 464 451 306

Montpellier 377 1219 412 1026 1057 353 448 963 303 677 325 745 156 531

Mulhouse 376 717 329 519 663 375 288 610 379 677 685 484 831 449

Nice 409 1387 488 1193 1225 439 534 1157 470 325 685 929 473 222

Paris 619 502 559 307 288 570 538 220 464 745 484 929 847 773

Perpignan 525 1346 561 1150 1132 502 597 1064 451 156 831 473 847 679

Turin 194 1150 255 1038 1069 207 247 990 306 531 449 222 773 679

LOCATION

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STRENGTHS:

• Huge choice of resorts

• Long ski season, from Christmas to May

• High altitude ski areas guaranteeing good quality snow

• Ski schools in every resort: 94 French ski schools with 9330 instructors

• Extensive range of activities in addition to skiing

• Wide variety of accommodation

• Easy access to the resorts

• Après-ski activities to suit all tastes

Savoie Mont Blanc is the world’s leading winter sports destination.

Covering two-thirds of the French Alps, the area boasts 110 winter

sports resorts, 18 interlinked downhill-ski areas and 38 cross-

country ski areas.

Chamonix, Megève, Méribel, Morzine-Avoriaz, Courchevel, La Clusaz, Val

d’Isère and Val Thorens are just a few of the 110 ski resorts in Savoie Mont

Blanc.

SAVOIE MONT BLANC

IN WINTER

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Key fact:

• Over 40 million visitors

spend their holidays in this

magical place.

SKIING

Classification used by all French ski resorts:

Large Ski Area Resort: A resort in which a single ski pass gives access to a

large, interlinked ski area.

Village Resort: A resort that complies with the Charte des Villages de Montagne

(Mountain Villages Charter) or a traditional village with no modern-style buildings.

Snowrider Resort: A resort with safe, dedicated areas for riders (such as

snowparks, boarder-cross areas, play areas, etc.) and instructors providing both

introductory and advanced training.

Some tips to help you to choose a ski resort:

Before choosing a resort, it is important to ask the right questions: With whom would you

like to go? When would you like to go? What kind of atmosphere are you looking for?

What activities would you like to do? Would you like the resort to be specially suited to

children? These questions are essential if your clients are to choose the resort that best

suits their needs.

Classifications and labels can also help you choose the right resort.

Club Resort: Resort that combines modernity with ski resort amenities, easy access to

many different leisure activities and great nightlife.

Nordic Area: Resort with the Nordique France label or with an outstanding cross-country

ski area. Introductory and advanced instruction and coaching must be available. Such

resorts usually offer other Nordic activities (dog sledding, snowshoeing, etc.)

Alti-forme Resort: Resort that combines skiing and snow sports with spa and fitness

activities.

Ski Resort for Disabled Visitors: To be included in this category, a resort must meet the

following two criteria: the ski school must offer ski instruction for the disabled [handiski],

i.e., specialised equipment and teaching must be available, and the ski area and

accommodation must be wheelchair accessible.

SAVOIE MONT BLANC IN WINTER

Labels you can trust:

• Famille Plus is a French quality label awarded to destinations offering specific

facilities and services for families with children.

• Top of the French Alps - (TOTFA): A group of 16 top-class French resorts offering

services that meet the requirements of an international clientele.

• Alpine Pearls – An association set up to promote sustainable holidays in which

holidaymakers get to their destination without using a car and have easy access to

public transportation while at their destination. The association offers a range of

environmentally friendly holiday ideas.

• Best of the Alps® e.V. brings together twelve of the Alps’ most famous tourist

destinations. Chamonix Mont-Blanc and Megève are members of Best of The Alps®.

• Nordic France is a French quality label awarded to cross-country ski resorts that

provide high-quality ski trails and other Nordic activities. The resort’s services and

commitment to sustainable development are also evaluated.

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18 INTERLINKED SKI AREAS

areas Espace Diamant 185 km of slopes, between 1000 m and

2069 m

www.espacediamant.com

Espace Killy 300 km of slopes, between 1550 m and

3456 m

www.espacekilly.com

Espace San Bernardo 160 km, between 1200 m and 265 0m

www.espacesanbernardo.com

Evasion Mont Blanc 445 km, between 1100 m and 2353 m

www.evasion-montblanc.com

Galibier Thabor 150 km, between 2430 m and 2600 m

www.galibier-thabor.com

Grand Domaine (Le) 152 km, between 1400 m and 2550 m

www.legranddomaine.fr

Grand Massif (Le) 265 km, between 1100 m and 2500 m

www.grand-massif.com

Hirmentaz-Les Habères 50 km, between 950 m and 1610 m

Paradiski 425 km, between 1200 m and 3250 m

www.paradiski.com

Portes du Soleil (Les) 650 km, between 1000 m and 2460 m

www.portesdusoleil.com

Praz-de-Lys-Sommand 45 km, between 1250 m and 2000 m

www.prazdelys-sommand.com

Roc d’Enfer 50 km, between 900 m and 1800 m

www.espacerocdenfer.com

Sybelles (Les) 310 km, between 1100 m and 2620 m

www.sybelles.com

3 Valleys (The) 600 km, between 600 m and 3200 m

www.les3vallees.com

Val Cenis Vanoise 125 km, between 1300 m and 2800 m

www.valcenisvanoise.fr

Ski areas linked

by shuttle bus:

Massif des Aravis 220 km, between 1000 m and 2600 m

www.aravis.com

Savoie Grand Revard 50 km, between 1350 m and 1550 m

www.savoiegrandrevard.com

Chamonix Valley 470 km, between 1035 m and 2525 m

www.chamonix.com

Some

NORDIC SKI

AREAS

Savoie Grand Revard

150 km, between 1350 m and

1550 m

www.savoiegrandrevard.com

Les Saisies – Olympic Nordic Ski

Area

120 km, between 1600 m and

1700 m

www.lessaisies.com

Bessans

80 km, 1750 m

www.bessans.com

Les Aravis Nordic Ski Area

150 km, between 1000 m and

1650 m

www.aravis.com

Praz de Lys Sommand

60 km, between 1450 m and 1650 m

www.prazdelys-sommand.com

Glières Plateau

28 km, between 1450 m and 1550 m

www.haute-savoie-nordic.com

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18 INTERLINKED

SKI AREAS

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Ice skating, walking, snow-shoeing, sledging, and dog–sledding are

some of the most popular winter activities you can do in Savoie Mont

Blanc.

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Other

ACTIVITIES Many resorts offer exclusive activities:

Ice diving in mountain lakes

Bobsleighing on an Olympic track

Scooter excursions when the ski lifts are closed

Paragliding flights from the top of the slopes

Heliskiing for exceptional off-piste descents. Permitted in only a few restricted

areas

A full list and contact details for activity organisers can be found at our

website: www.savoie-mont-blanc.com

SAVOIE MONT BLANC IN WINTER

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Original après-ski:

Make your ski holiday even more special by adding some unforgettable après-ski activities. Here is

a small selection of activities available in Savoie Mont Blanc’s resorts.

Accompanied by a mountain guide, hike to a mountain hut under the stars to enjoy a

well-deserved cheese fondue with local charcuterie.

Night-time snowshoe outing to an igloo where you can tuck into a traditional mountain

dinner.

After a delicious dinner of local specialities in a mountain restaurant, guests can glide back

to the resort on a “Snake-Gliss” sledge.

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Local tourist offices can provide all the information needed to compile a

programme of activities in a resort.

Some tourist offices provide a booking service and put together holiday offers

ranging from accommodation-only to full packages including ski passes, ski rental

and other activities and services.

The tourist office will put you in contact with the right person to deal with your

request.

A list of the tourist offices is available from our website: www.savoie-mont-

blanc.com

Ski-passes to meet your clients’ needs, whether they want to ski for a single day or

for a week or more. Large ski areas offer different types of ski pass giving access to

all or just part of the ski area.

Some booking services and accommodation providers have negotiated reduced

rates with ski-lift companies. You can benefit from these rates by booking through

them. You can also deal directly with the ski-lift companies.

Ski rental can be organised through independent local shops, many of which are

franchises of nationwide brands. Some booking services and accommodation

providers have negotiated reduced rates with ski-rental companies. You can

benefit from these rates by booking through them.

Some luxury hotels have a ski-shop in the hotel itself.

Ski schools can be very flexible in terms of organising lessons. In addition to

providing instruction in all types of skiing (downhill, freestyle, cross-country,

snowboarding, etc.), they can also organise snowshoe outings and other activities.

It is best to book individual or group ski lessons for your clients in advance. The

local tourist office will provide you with a list of the resort’s ski schools.

The ESF (Ecole de Ski Français) has ski schools in every resort, staffed by more

than 9300 ski instructors. Its online booking system is available in French, English

and Russian www.esf.net; esf-ru.net

Services for young children, from the age of 3 months, offered by Savoie Mont

Blanc’s ski resorts include crêches and nannies. In addition, ski schools provide

many services for children. The local tourist office will tell you who to contact.

If you choose self-catering accommodation, you can book a grocery delivery

service in order to have the food required for the week’s meals delivered directly

to your accommodation: www.food-pack-service.com

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SAVOIE MONT BLANC IN WINTER

Savoie Mont Blanc - culinary heights

The high quality of its produce has made Savoie Mont Blanc a region of

gastronomic excellence, where haute cuisine and local culinary traditions

exist side by side. The area offers an exceptionally wide choice of high-

quality restaurants from Michelin-starred establishments to family

eateries around the lakes, in the mountain resorts and in the villages.

LIFESTYLE

GASTRONOMY

and wine

Diversity is our motto, so visitors can enjoy gastronomy in all its forms, from

haute cuisine to local cheeses and charcuterie in country inns. With products

including Beaufort, Abondance, Tomme de Savoie and Reblochon, Savoie is

renowned as one of France’s finest cheese producing regions. Many farms and

cooperatives that produce cheeses and other local products are open to

visitors. For a list of cooperatives and farms, go to our website: www.savoie-mont-blanc.com

Meet the chefs

Cookery courses:

Bocafina – Talloires. Fabulous location with a superb

view of lake Annecy. Interactive lessons adapted to each

student’s skills, culinary tastes and available time.

www.bocafina.eu

Atelier Gastonomique – St Alban Leysse/Chambéry.

Chef Yves Vincent provides individual or group lessons in

his kitchen or in your home,.

www.ateliergastronomique.com

Chef-run hotels:

Emmanuel Renaut – “Flocons de Sel” Michelin 3-star

restaurant & 5-star hotel for exclusive breaks in Megève.

www.floconsdesel.com

Marc Veyrat welcomes you to “La Maison du Bois” in the

Aravis Mountains. Traditional chalet and fabulous flavours

from the chef’s garden.

www.marcveyrat.fr

The Must: With 33 Michelin-starred

restaurants, Savoie Mont

Blanc is one of France’s

top culinary destinations,

alongside Lyon, the

gastronomy capital of

France.

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Gastronomic cuisine for everyone!

Have a weekday lunch in a Michelin-starred

restaurant for as little as €27.

Some examples:

Courchevel Le Praz (3 Valleys ski area) - Azimut –

Lunch menu from €27, can be combined with a day’s

skiing.

Chambéry - Coté Marché – Lunch menu from €27.50,

can be combined with a tour of the vineyards in the Cœur

de Savoie area.

Le Bourget-du-Lac – Atmosphères – Lunch menu from

€29, can be combined with a cruise on Lake Bourget.

Saint-Gervais-les-Bains – Le Sérac – Lunch menu from

€35, can be combined with a glacier excursion on the

Mont Blanc Tramway.

Annecy – Le Belvédère – Lunch menu from €35, can be

combined with a visit to Annecy old town.

Non-binding prices, for information only

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GASTRONOMY Not to be missed:

Markets:

Every village has a traditional market where you can find the best local products

and meet the producers. For example: traditional Reblochon cheese market in

Grand-Bornand on Wednesdays from 8am till noon. Don’t miss Chambéry

(Saturdays) and Annecy (Sundays) markets, the largest in Savoie Mont Blanc.

Fine produce:

Fromagerie Gay in Annecy. Cheese shop founded in 1935.

www.fromager-annecy.com

Denis Provent’s two cheese shops, the Laiterie des Halles (Chambery) and

Délices Savoyards (Aix-Les-Bains), purveyors of fine cheeses for three

generations. www.fromager-denis-provent.com

Chocolaterie des Bauges, traditional chocolate shop and factory in the tiny

village of Bellecombe en Bauges: www.chocolateriedesbauges.com

World champion pastry chef Philippe Rigollot’s cakes and pastries in Annecy:

www.philipperigollot.com

Cooperative dairies – find out how local cheeses are made: Beaufort Cheese

Cooperative - www.cooperative-de-beaufort.com and Aillon le Jeune Cheese

Cooperative (since 1889) - www.fromagerieaillon.com

Chanaz traditional oil mill (Moulin de Chanaz), built in 1868:

www.moulindechanaz.com

Novel ideas:

When culture meets local produce: FACIM (foundation for promoting mountain

culture) has set up two gastronomy trails: “Voyage Autour de la Table”, focusing

on local producers and chefs who love sharing their passion for the area and its

products, and “Terre des Alpes”, focusing on life in the Alps and traditional skills

and crafts. For further details and information about made-to-measure guided

tours, go to www.fondation-facim.fr

Dining on the summits:

Tignes, Le Panoramic gastronomic restaurant, at 3032 m. A breathtaking 360°

view from the terrace facing the Grande Motte Glacier. Easy access from the

resort (7 min.) via the funicular.

Chamonix, the legendary Hotel du Montenvers, at the foot of Mont Blanc.

Views of the Mer de Glace and the Aiguilles des Drus. Easy access from the

valley via the Montenvers train.

Local specialities: tartiflette, raclette, Savoy

fondue, diots, polenta,

farçon and delicious lake

fish, etc.

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LIFESTYLE

There are also many traditional restaurants in the heart of the alpine pastures. They

are easily accessible on foot and offer your clients the chance to enjoy local cuisine

amidst magnificent alpine landscapes.

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The Must:

The Savoie wine route: Three signposted circuits

through a wide variety of landscapes in different areas of

Savoie Mont Blanc: near lakes, regional parks and

tourist towns.

“Léman and Arve”, above Lake Geneva, between

Evian and Geneva, and at the foot of the Chablais

Géopark

“Coeur de Savoie” close to Chambéry and

surrounded by two regional parks

“Savoie, Lac du Bourget”, around Aix-les-Bains,

above the shores of Lake Bourget

Coeur de Savoie and Savoie, Lac du Bourget

have the label “Vignobles et Découvertes”

100 producers welcome visitors their to wineries. The

guides are usually the producers themselves. Producers

include both traditional family wineries and private

châteaux.

More than 40 cheeses are produced in Savoie Mont

Blanc. Wine and cheese go together very well, and it is

very easy to organise combined cheese and wine

tastings in the same area.

Wine has been produced in Savoie since early Roman times. Savoie

Mont Blanc has around 2,000 hectares of vineyards that produce an

appealing and diverse range of wines with an alpine and sophisticated

character.

WINE

Everyone who enjoys interesting wine and food will love finding out more about

the development of wine growing and gastronomic traditions in this tiny region.

Savoie’s red, white, rosé and sparkling wines include four AOCs, 22 crus and

23 grape varieties.

Not to be missed:

• “Maison de la vigne et du vin”: A large selection of

Savoie’s wines can be tasted and bought at the

“Oenotheque” (wine library), in the middle of the

Apremont vineyards. Wine tastings for groups can be

organised.

www.vindesavoie.net

• Chautagne Wine Cooperative – Ruffieux

The ideal place to learn about wine. “L’eveil des Sens”

(Awakening of senses) shows visitors how to use all five

senses to gain a full appreciation of wine and vines.

Tastings and presentations by an oenologist can be

organised.

www.cave-de-chautagne.com

• Vine and Wine Museum – Montmélian. An

interpretation centre to learn about the 2000-year history

of wine production in Savoie.

• Château de Ripaille - Thonon les Bains. On the

shores of Lake Geneva, the château offers visits of the

vineyard and tastings in the winery. Guided visits of the

château itself can also be organised. A large reception

room in the château is available for lunches, dinners and

conferences, etc. - www.ripaille.fr

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WINE Novel ideas:

Wine cruise on Lake Bourget

Possible to organise cruises for groups on a variety of themes including wine.

www.compagniedesbateauxdulac.fr

Enjoy a great pre-lunch or pre-dinner cruise rounded off with a local aperitif on board

your cruise boat.

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LIFESTYLE

Electric bike, Segway: In order to meet demand and provide a leisurely way of

exploring the area, electric-bike or Segway day trips have been developed. Tours

follow minor roads and include visits to wineries and tastings of local wines. A great

way to meet Savoie’s wine producers. www.alpes-flaveurs.com

Tasting trips: Tours of the vineyards and wine tastings by car, on foot or on

snowshoes, led by a qualified wine specialist and walking guide. Tours available for

individuals and groups.

www.alpes-flaveurs.com

Learn more about wine: Syrah & Co.

Private events at a wine bar. Wine tastings and special meals available for groups.

www.syrah-and-co.fr

Alpes Flaveurs can organise wine tastings with a sommelier at your clients’ homes.

Follow the Wine Route in a Citroën 2CV: A fun way to explore the area in a

legendary French car. Stop off for tastings at wineries, a picnic or a gastronomic

lunch…the choice is yours.

www.lesdeuchesdulac.fr

Hot-air balloon flight over the vineyards: The Compagnie des Ballons organises

flights above Lake Annecy for individuals or groups of up to eight people. In-flight wine

tastings available on request.

www.compagniedesballons.com

For an exclusive experience, combine a hot-air balloon flight with a Citroën 2CV tour

of the vineyards.

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Savoie Mont Blanc has a long history and a rich cultural and architectural

heritage. The area has several enchanting towns and cities, all of which

are small enough to explore on foot. Guided walks are available through

all the main towns.

Surrounded by mountains, they are packed with exciting architecture and culture,

ranging from forts, castles and religious monuments to museums, gardens, craft

workshops, open farms and wine cellars…there is no shortage of things to see

and do! In addition, they provide excellent shopping and eating, and numerous

special events mean that from spring to autumn they are very festive places, too.

CULTURE

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Main cities to be visited throughout the year:

Annecy – www.lac-annecy.com Situated on the shores of the purest lake in Europe, Annecy is famous for its colourful houses on

the banks of its numerous canals. The castle-museum looks down upon the pedestrianized old

town – the perfect place for a pleasant stroll.

Guided tours of the old town, can include museum visits (bookings:

visites@annecytourisme.com).

Lake cruises for individuals or groups: www.annecy-croisieres.com

Water taxis for individuals or groups of up to 18 people: www.water-taxi.fr

4 nearby châteaux open to visitors: Château de Menthon Saint Bernard (www.château-de-

menthon.com), Château de Clermont (châteauclermont@cg74.fr), Château de Montrottier

(www.châteaudemontrottier.com) and Château de Thorens les Glieres

(www.châteauthorens.fr).

Chambery – www.chambery-tourisme.com The historic capital of Savoie boasts lively streets, an imposing castle, an intricately decorated

cathedral and a newly renovated Fine Arts Museum.

(bookings: s.armenjon@chambery-tourisme.com)

Guided tours of the pedestrianized streets and alleys of the medieval old town and castle, as

well as the more contemporary areas of the city.

Visit Les Charmettes, the former home of the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau.

Choose a theme for your visit: trompe l’oeil painting, architecture, gastronomy.

Visit one of the world’s largest carillons or welcome your guests with a 15-minute concert.

Aix-les-Bains – www.aixlesbains.com In the 19th century, Aix-les-Bains was known as the “spa town of queens”. It is now a centre of art

and culture and a vibrant festival venue. Lake Bourget provides a beautiful backdrop to a stay in

one of the city’s 40 hotels and apartment complexes.

Take a guided tour to find out more about the city’s “Belle Époque” heritage: villas, grand hotels,

casino

Come to one of the music festivals, Operetta and rock in the summer and the “Romantic

Nights Festival” in September/October: www.nuitsromantiques.com

Take a cruise to Hautecombe Abbey on the opposite shore of the lake:

www.compagniedesbateauxdulac.fr

Walk in the footsteps of the poet Lamartine.

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Main cities to be visited throughout the year:

Evian-les-Bains – www.evian-tourisme.com

Evian is famous around the world for its eponymous mineral water. Nestled on

the shores of Lake Geneva, the town originally made its name during the golden

age of spa bathing. Casino, hotels, Palais Lumière conference centre, gardens,

etc. Exhibitions at the Palais Lumière: Every year, this elegant building hosts exhibitions

of international stature (Joseph Vitta until June 2014).

Attend a concert in the Grange au Lac, an exceptional auditorium built entirely from

wood. Every July, famous artists come to Evian for the “Rencontres Musicales

d’Evian”: www.rencontres-musicales-evian.fr

Take a boat trip to the Jardins du Pré Curieux water gardens - a unique place that

should not be missed.

Take a tour of Lake Geneva on La Savoie, an historic sailing ship available for private

rentals - www.barquelasavoie.com

A national label awarded by the Ministry of Culture to cities and

regions of outstanding cultural interest that are committed to

promoting their heritage (restoration, visits, exhibitions, events, etc.).

Three cities and two areas in Savoie Mont Blanc have been awarded the

“Villes et pays d'art et d'histoire” label:

Albertville-Conflans, Annecy and Chambéry,

Pays de Maurienne, Tarentaise and Beaufortain/Val d’Arly – The High

Valleys of Savoie,

The Abondance Valley in the Chablais Mountains.

A few favourites:

Albertville-Conflans - www.pays-albertville.com:

Visit the medieval town of Conflans and the 1992 Winter Olympic Games Museum

(www.maisonjeuxolympiques-albertville.org)

Thonon-les-Bains - www.thononlesbains.com

This spa town on the shores of Lake Geneva boasts many places of cultural interest,

most notably the Château de Ripaille. Guided tours are available on themes

including water and religious monuments. A visit to the Chablais Museum can be

followed by a contemporary art exhibition at the Chapelle de la Visitation.

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Three of “the most beautiful villages in France”

Bonneval-sur-Arc – www.bonneval-sur-arc.com

A perfectly preserved high-mountain village at the gateway to the Vanoise

National Park and at the foot of the Col de l’Iseran (2770 m), the highest road

pass in Europe. Beautiful stone-built houses.

Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval – www.sixtferacheval.com

Awarded the title for a combination of its architectural heritage and its

magnificent setting at the foot of a mountain cirque lined with dramatic waterfalls.

A spectacular but easily accessible corner of the mountains.

Yvoire – www.yvoiretourism.com

A medieval village ideally situated on the shores of Lake Geneva. It still retains

major elements of its 14th-century fortifications, including the keep, the gates

and the ramparts. Yvoire was a prize winner in the international “Entente Florale”

competition for best kept villages and towns. The Garden of 5 Senses is open to

visits by individuals and groups.

Most visited cultural attractions and museums:

Saint-Pierre-de-Curtille – Hautecombe Abbey

Built in the 12th century, the abbey was renovated in 1821 during the reign of

Charles Felix, King of Sardinia. The troubadour-style church is the lasting resting

place of the Princes of Savoie. The abbey lies on the shores of Lake Bourget and

can be reached by boat from Aix-les-Bains.

Annecy – Château-Museum

An historic building that houses collections of religious sculpture, traditional local

furniture, classical art, contemporary art and temporary exhibitions. It is also home

to the regional observatory of Alpine lakes and organises exhibits on local

archaeology, natural history and ethnology, etc.

Chambéry - Galerie Eurêka - Espace Montagne is Chambery’s “Centre for

Scientific, Technical and Industrial Culture”. In addition to permanent and temporary

exhibitions, it includes a gallery focusing on the mountain environment.

Chambery’s Architecture and Heritage Centre is also very popular with visitors.

Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne - Opinel knife museum, open all year. Located in the

old factory, the Opinel Museum tells the story of the Opinel family and the famous

Savoyard knife, and shows how the manufacturing process has evolved over the

centuries.

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YOUR HOLIDAY PROGRAMMES IN SAVOIE MONT BLANC Y

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DAY 1:

Cruise on Lake Geneva. See the whole

area in a glance: towns, villages,

châteaux, mountains.

Ripaille: visit the château and

vineyards plus wine tasting in the

winery. Walk in the arboretum.

Lunch by the lake

Guided tour of the historic town of

Thônon. Contemporary art exhibition at

the Chapelle de la Visitation.

Gourmet dinner

DAY 2:

Guided walk through Evian to see the

town’s spa architecture, the Cachat

spring and the Palais Lumière

(exhibitions).

Lunch in the restaurant at Evian Golf

course.

Visit to the Pré Curieux water

gardens by solar-powered boat.

Dinner by the lake

DAY 3:

Yvoire medieval village and castle.

Visit to the Garden of 5 Senses. Enjoy

a gentle stroll along flower-lined streets

to Rovorée-La Châtaignière, a

remarkable chestnut plantation.

Lunch

Afternoon at the Lake Geneva Eagle

Park, home to 120 species of bird of

prey. Spectacular shows held daily.

DAY 1:

Visit Chambery’s historic old town

with its colourful facades and trompe-

l’oeil paintings. Visit to the Fine Arts

Museum.

Lunch in town

Walk to Les Charmettes to visit the

former home of the philosopher Jean

Jacques Rousseau.

Gourmet dinner

DAY 2:

Cruise on Lake Bourget with a visit to

Hautecombe Abbey.

Lunch in a country inn beside the

Savières canal.

Stroll around the village of Chanaz and

visit its traditional oil mill.

Visit to the Chautagne cooperative

winery and tasting of local wines.

DAY 3:

Guided visit to the Musée Faure:

paintings and sculpture: impressionist

collection, Rodin collection. Gallery

dedicated to the romantic poet

Lamartine.

Lunch at the Grand Cercle Casino

Guided tour of Aix’s “Belle Epoque”

spa town: casino, luxury hotels,

gardens, etc.

Gourmet dinner

DAY 1:

Guided tour of Annecy on a market day

(Thursday, Friday, Sunday), including a

stop at the famous “Fromagerie Gay”

cheese shop.

Lunch beside the canal in Annecy’s old

town.

Visit to the Paccard Bell Foundry. See

bells being cast (Thursdays) or enjoy a

“Songs & Bells” concert (Fridays).

DAY 2:

Excursion to the Aravis Mountains –

home of Reblochon cheese.

Visit to a farm and its cheese cellars.

Wine and cheese tasting.

Lunch in a mountain village

Walk through a traditional village and

alpine pastures.

Return to Annecy and free time.

DAY 3:

Cookery lesson or excursion to Tamié

Abbey, where the monks make an

excellent cheese called “Tamie”.

Gourmet lunch

Visit to the château at Menthon

Dinner beside Lake Annecy or dinner

cruise

Parks and gardens… Fine art… Savoir-faire…

If you would like any further information, please contact us at:

international@savoiemontblanc.com 22

Savoie Mont Blanc is a superb outdoor sports playground, with activities

to suit all tastes, from swimming and golf to tree-top adventure courses,

hiking and paragliding, all in magnificent surroundings. Whether you are

looking for a thrilling adrenaline rush or more gentle activities, Savoie

Mont Blanc has lots to offer all year round.

SPORTS AND LEISURE ACTVITIES

Lake cruises: Lake Geneva – www.cgn.ch

Lake Annecy – www.annecy-croisieres.com

Lake Bourget – www.compagniedesbateauxdulac.fr or www.chanaz-

croisieres.fr

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Key facts:

• 90 lakeside beaches

• 7500 km of waymarked

hiking tracks

• 5426 km of cycling

itineraries

• 106 paragliding sites

• 50 via ferrata

• 13 golf courses (18-holes)

Close to the large lakes and at the foot of the mountains:

All our great cities are in exceptional locations beside or close to our large lakes and

never far from the mountains. It is easy to put together programmes including a

wide range of activities.

The lakes are at their best in summer, warming up wonderfully for bathing and water

sports such as sailing, windsurfing and water skiing. In addition, they have many

beaches on which you can lounge, admiring the mountain scenery reflected in the pure

waters.

Many of Savoie Mont Blanc’s lakeside resorts have been awarded the

“France Station Nautique” label. Combining all the advantages of a

waterside location with fabulous mountain views, they have no reason to

envy any seaside resort. Thonon-les-Bains on Lake Geneva, Aix-les-Bains

on Lake Bourget and Sevrier on Lake Annecy are extremely appealing spa

and sailing resorts.

23

Savoie Mont Blanc offers a full range of water sports, including

swimming, sailing, rowing and windsurfing on the large lakes. The

area’s rivers are a paradise for white-water canoeists and rafters.

SPORTS AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES

Take to the

WATER

Bourg-Saint-Maurice has a worldwide reputation for canoeing and white-water

rafting, as does the River Dranse, in the Chablais.

Further west, stretches of the Rhône and Guiers are well suited to flat-water canoeing

Some canoeing and rafting companies:

Most of the companies in this short selection work on several rivers.

River Isere: AN Rafting (www.an-rafting.com) , Annecy-Aventure (www.annecy-

aventure.com), Coureurs de Rivières (www.coureurs-rivieres.com) – several rivers

River Dranse and/or River Giffre: Aquarafting (www.aquarafting.com), AlpoViv

Rafting (www.alpovive-rafting.fr) and Eaux Zones (www.eaux-zones.com)

River Guiers (suitable for families): Pro Lynx (www.prolynx-sports.com) and

Vertes Sensations (www.vertes-sensations.com)

River Arve: Ecolorado Rafting (www.ecolorado-rafting.fr)

Takamaka - individual or corporate activities and events (www.takamaka.fr)

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Savoie Mont Blanc has thirteen 18-hole golf courses beside the lakes or

in the mountains. GOLF

The Must:

A round on the majestic Evian Resort golf course

www.evianresort.com

A round in Chamonix with Mont Blanc as a backdrop

www.golfdechamonix.com

A round in the wonderful mountain setting of Méribel

www.golf-meribel.com

Take the waters at a spa: end a day’s sport with a well-being break in one of

Savoie Mont Blanc’s seven spa towns:

Aix-les-Bains, Brides-les-Bains, Challes-les-Eaux, Evian-les-Bains, La Léchère, Saint-

Gervais-les-Bains, Thonon-les-Bains

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Take to the

MOUNTAINS

Some of the most famous multi-day treks: Tour of Mont Blanc

Tour of the Glaciers of the Vanoise

Mini tour of the Dents Blanches (4 days).

The Way of Saint James – GR 6, 3-day traverse

Tour of the Beaufortain (3 days)

Tour of Mont Thabor (6 days)

More suggestions and descriptions of hikes can be found on our website.

SPORTS AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES

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Climbing, hiking and walking Savoie Mont Blanc is a major centre for mountaineering, with the Mont Blanc Massif,

Vanoise National Park and numerous top-class rock climbing areas attracting alpinists and

rock climbers from all around the world. The area’s 50 via ferrrata use cables, walkways

and ladders to explore the vertical world. Although they require some technical skills, they

can be enjoyed by newcomers to mountaineering.

Of course, walking and hiking are also hugely popular. And, don’t forget, in summer, cable

cars, mountain trains and chairlifts provide easy ways to gain altitude.

Ask a mountain guide to draw up a programme for the kinds of activity you would

like to do.

Easy excursions to the foot of Mont Blanc from Chamonix and Saint Gervais: Montenvers

train to the Mer de Glace, Aiguille du Midi cable car, etc.

www.compagniedumontblanc.co.uk

We can help you:

international@savoiemontblanc.com

Get the most from your days by taking the earliest cable car to see the sunrise

or the last train to enjoy a mountain sunset.

Where to stay: There are many different types of accommodation in the mountains, including chalet-inns,

staffed and unstaffed mountain huts in isolated locations, and hostel-style self-catering

accommodation with a kitchen area for independent hikers (gîte d’étape). Book your night

in a mountain hut online:

www.refuges-vanoise.com - Vanoise

www.autourdumontblanc.com – Tour of Mont Blanc

www.refugesclareethabor.com – Tour of Mont Thabor

Let us know if you would like us to send you the full list of accommodation.

25

Mountain biking has become a major draw in Savoie Mont Blanc and

many resorts have opened their ski lifts to mountain bikers.

Bikers of all levels can now enjoy wonderful interconnected areas,

thanks to the development of GPS itineraries, electric-mountain bikes

and bike parks, etc. Savoie Mont Blanc’s largest mountain bike areas include: Chablais - Portes du Soleil – 600 km of trails

Val d’Arly – Espace Diamant – 250 km of trails

Tarentaise - 3 Valleys – 120 km of trails

Beaufortain – Arêches-Beaufort – 130 km of trails

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CYCLING

Chemins du Soleil:

A mountain bike itinerary across the prealps from Thonon/Lake Geneva to

Nice/Mediterranean www.cheminsdusoleil.com

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One of Savoie Mont Blanc’s greatest features is the diversity of its landscapes,

which means that cycle tours are extremely varied in terms of both difficulty and

scenery.

The challenging “Route des 100 cols” covers 2,000 km and 45,000 m of height gain

and includes all the area’s most famous Tour de France passes (Col de l’Iseran, Col

de la Madeleine, Col des Aravis, Col du Galibier, etc.).

It is also easy to organise very gentle rides beside a lakeshore or along country

lanes, with outings varying in length from two hours to several days.

More than 250 cycling friendly accommodation providers

Special programmes, with or without a guide, with or without luggage transfers, can

be drawn up for groups of cyclists of any level

Cyclomundo:

Cycle-tour organiser providing all the services required by your clients -

www.cyclomundo.com

ViaRhona:

A 700-km cycle route from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean: www.viarhona.com

Novel ideas:

A half-day, electric-bike cycle tour (beside a lake, through the vineyards) starting in a city

centre. Bikes can be rented in many places, making it easy to to organise cycle tours for

groups.

Bicycles are carried free of charge on regional trains (TER trains). Bikes can also be taken on

some lake cruise boats. Check availability for groups before travelling.

www.cyclo-maurienne.fr provides all the information

needed to organise cycle tours in the Maurienne area

26

Hot-air ballooning:

Two companies specialize in hot-air balloon flights:

Near Lake Annecy: www.compagniedesballons.com

At the foot of Mont Blanc: www.alpes-montgolfiere.fr

The sport of paragliding was born in the French Alps. Savoie Mont Blanc now has

more than 100 take–off sites from which to soar over the lakes and mountains.

Introductory tandem flights do not require any special abilities and can be done with a

paragliding instructor.

We can put you in touch with state-registered paragliding schools.

Light aircraft and glider flights over Mont Blanc:

Aerodromes:

Challes-les-Eaux - www.planeur-challes.fr

Courchevel - www.aeroclub-courchevel.com

Megève - www.aerocime.com

Méribel - www.ac-meribel.com

Aix-les-Bains - www.aeroclub-savoie.com

Annecy - www.aeroclubannecy.com

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FAMILLE PLUS Label

Famille Plus is a national label awarded to tourist destinations that provide specific

facilities and services for families with children.

To obtain the Famille Plus label, a resort must offer attractive prices and ensure every

family receives a personalised welcome. In addition, it must provide activities adapted

to all ages and professional supervision for children. A full range of shops and services

must be close at hand.

24 resorts in Savoie Mont-Blanc have been awarded the Famille Plus label. For a full

list of Famille Plus resorts, go to: www.savoie-mont-blanc.com

SPORTS AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES ©

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Multi-pass and summer activity passes

Summer activity passes giving unlimited access to leisure facilities have been

introduced by many mountain resorts, including La Plagne (Pass’Plagne), Tignes

(Sportignes), Portes du Soleil (Multi Pass), and the Aravis (Pass Loisirs). These passes

are an excellent deal for families and holidaymakers spending several days in the same

resort.

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EVENTS

SAVOIE MONT BLANC IN SUMMER

Savoie Mont Blanc’s cultural diary includes all kinds of events: folklore,

gastronomy, exhibitions, theatre, etc. A wide range of concerts and

international sporting events round off the programme. Whether you are

with friends, family or or on your own, you are sure to find an event that will

interest you.

FESTIVALS:

May 2015

Andilly Grand Mediaeval Festival

Andlly Fourteen hours of entertainment every day

in nine different areas. Along the way you

can watch jousting on horseback, falconry,

battles, acrobats, jesters, folk tales,

legends, fencing, dancing, fireworks and

much, much more!

July - August 2015

Bauges Music and Nature Festival

Le Châtelard Classical music concerts in churches in the

Bauges Regional Park. Many of the

concerts are by internationally renowned

artists. Thrill to the sounds of the piano,

viola de gamba, violin and many more.

July 2015

Les Estivales du Château

Chambéry A varied programme of concerts (soul,

jazz, funk, pop, etc.) and shows

(contemporary dance, theatre, lyric

creations, etc.) held in Chambery’s historic

centre.

19 July – 2 August 2015

Académie Festival Concert

Les Arcs Talented young artists come together to

improve their skills and perform classical

concerts. Free admission.

23-28 August 2015

23th Au Bonheur des Mômes Festival

(Fun for Kids Festival)

Le Grand-Bornand Shows, workshops, exhibitions, giant games,

books for kids and many other activities. Six

days of dreams and delights for all the family.

26-28 September 2015

International Freeski Film Festival

Annecy The world’s leading skiing film festival

showcases the best freeski movies and

provides an annual meeting point for skiers.

September - October 2015

Romantic Nights Festival

Aix-les-Bains A wonderful opportunity to enjoy classical

music on the shores of Lake Bourget.

11-12 October 2015

18th Gourmet Salon

Arêches-Beaufort The salon brings together top-quality food

producers from across France. Presentations,

tastings and sale of products. Restaurants,

special events and visits, with a gala evening

on Saturday.

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SPORTS EVENTS:

7 June July 2015

Time Megève Mont-Blanc

Cyclosportive

Megève A great event for cyclists who love the

high mountain passes. Starting in

Megève, three routes allow cyclists of

different levels to explore the most

beautiful roads of the Beaufortain

Mountains.

26-28 June 2015

The MTB Pass'Portes du Soleil

Portes du Soleil A mountain-bike trek along the

fabulous MTB trails of the Portes du

Soleil, set against magnificent

scenery and leap-frogging over the

Franco-Swiss border. The 80-km

circuit uses 15 ski lifts. Mountain

bikers can choose from several

different variants.

TRADITIONAL EVENTS :

August 2015

Alpine Pastures and Mountain

Guides Festival

Pralognan-la-Vanoise A not-to-be-missed village fête.

Procession, local crafts, folklore and

music. Come and share our traditions!

Mid-August 2015 Mountain Guides Festival

Chamonix

July 2015

3 Vallées Discovery - MTB outing

Les Menuires A wonderful way of exploring the 3

Valleys (Courchevel, Méribel, Val

Thorens) via a fun ride that can be

done alone, with family or with friends.

August 2015

Summer Ski-jumping World Cup

CourcheveL Spend a day with your head in the

clouds! Eighty of the world’s best ski

jumpers will compete on Courchevel’s

Olympic ski jumps. Other highlights

organised around this huge sporting

event include base-jumping

demonstrations, concerts and fireworks.

24-31 August 2015

The North Face Ultra-Trail du Mont-

Blanc

Chamonix Starting from Chamonix, 2300 athletes

will set off to cover a distance of 168 km

and 9,600 meters of height gain with

minimal outside support.

10-13 September 2015

The Evian Championship (Evian

Masters)

Evian-les-Bains The world’s number one women's golf

tournament, featuring the 90 best

international golfers from five

continents. The event is broadcast live

in 110 countries.

August 2015

Reblochon Festival

La Clusaz A parade of floats, “tableaux vivants”,

bread making and folk dances: a day to

celebrate local crafts and farmers

August 2015

Shepherds’ Festival

Séez A traditional festival celebrating the long

history of trade between the people of

the Tarentaise and the inhabitants of

the Aosta Valley. The festival includes

open-air folk concerts, an al-fresco

meal, local produce and traditional

crafts.

October 2015

Return from the Pastures

Annecy This great festival celebrates local

traditions: craft events, demonstrations

of traditional skills, parade of cows

coming down from the Alpine pastures,

folk groups, tastings of local products.

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E-learning:

Savoie Mont Blanc has set up an e-learning tool to explain our mountain-tourism

offer to counter staff throughout the year. Its objective is to enable counter staff to

become ‘French Mountain Holiday Experts’. What is more, every month, the names

of all the experts who successfully complete the course are entered into a draw to

win a ski holiday.

French, English and Russian versions are available www.e-montagne.fr

Savoie Mont Blanc Tourism has worked in partnership with travel

organisers for many years.

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SERVICES

Find out more about the region, its activities, its tourism industry and its tourism

offer.

Trips can be organised to help you put together future holiday programmes and find

out about new products.

“A la carte” educational tours can be organised to improve your sales staff’s

knowledge of your programme.

Know everything there is to know about our destination

For Dutch travel agents, Savoie Mont Blanc has developed an e-learning course

that focuses on the summer offer. The course can be found at

www.travecademy.nl

Plus the names of all the travel agents who successfully complete the course

are entered into a draw to win a summer holiday and a number of gadgets.

Educational trips

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Organise press coverage…

Different kinds of partnerships can be arranged. If you can provide travel tickets or

accommodation for a press visit to Savoie Mont Blanc, we can help you organize a

tailor-made programme.

Please contact us.

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Use our database to feed your website (up-to-date information, photos, videos, etc.)

Direct link to the Savoie Mont Blanc photo gallery: pictures can be downloaded free

of charge from our website: www.phototheque.savoiemontblanc.com

Our webTV offers around 50 films in English covering nearly all the activities available

in Savoie Mont Blanc, for example, marmot watching, presentations of golf courses,

cruises on the lakes, snowshoeing in Courchevel and Avoriaz’s beginners’ snow park,

etc.

A good way of whetting your client's appetite for our destination.

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Brochures

We can provide a range of brochures for your clients (maps of Savoie Mont Blanc,

cycling maps, Savoie Mont Blanc summer magazine, guide to walks and hikes in

Savoie Mont Blanc, etc.).

If you require large quantities, please contact us: +33 820 00 73 74

Order form: info@smbtourisme.com

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Contact us at:

international@smbtourisme.com

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SAVOIE MONT BLANC TOURISME

Corinne RAÏH

+ 33 (4) 79 85 92 16 - + 33 (6) 71 71 65 29

corinne.raih@smbtourisme.com

Céline Guillermin

UK Market – press and promotion

+ 33 (0)4 79 85 96 99 - + 33 (0)6 83 13 36 07

celine.guillermin@smbtourisme.com

Véronique BALLANFAT

Tel +33 4 79 85 92 17

veronique.ballanfat@smbtourisme.com

www.facebook.com/Savoie.Mont.Blanc

Twitter: @SMBlntl

Pictures can be downloaded from

www.phototheque.savoie-mont-blanc.com

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