Holiday rentals Savoie

Three iconic places to discover in Savoie

Savoie is home to some of the most beautiful heritage sites in the French Alps. Combining medieval history, unspoilt nature and majestic lakes, these three destinations embody the spirit of the department and are all essential stops on your trip.

1. Castle of the Dukes of Savoy

In Chambéry, the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy remains the historic heart of the old town. Once the seat of ducal power, this Gothic fortress overlooks the picturesque streets of the town centre and tells the story of several centuries of Savoyard history. Inside, the Sainte-Chapelle impresses with its stained-glass windows and refined architecture, whilst the Archives Tower carefully safeguards the duchy’s documentary treasures. Now the department’s administrative headquarters, the castle remains open to visitors wishing to explore its inner courtyards and sculpted façades.

2. Vanoise National Park

Established in 1963 as France’s first national park, the Vanoise protects an area of over 530 square kilometres stretching between the Tarentaise and Maurienne valleys. This alpine sanctuary is home to exceptional wildlife, notably a large population of Alpine ibex that inhabit the rocky ridges. Glacial lakes, flower-filled mountain pastures and snow-capped peaks make up a spectacular landscape where hikers and nature lovers can enjoy themselves whatever the season. The Vanoise embodies the ecological richness and raw power of the French Alps.

3. Lake Bourget

Lake Bourget is France’s largest natural body of water, stretching 18 kilometres in length within a preserved mountainous setting. Its shores are home to Aix-les-Bains, a spa town renowned since ancient times, and the Royal Abbey of Hautecombe, an architectural masterpiece reflected in the calm waters. The lake inspired the famous poet Lamartine, whose verses extol the beauty of the area. Today, its shores are perfect for relaxation, pleasure boating and contemplative walks.

These three destinations embody the diversity of Savoie: its princely past, its alpine landscape and its lakeside heritage. A holiday in a holiday rental in Savoie allows you to explore them at your own pace and fully savour all that the department has to offer.

The ideal time of year to book a holiday rental in Savoie

Each season transforms the landscape of Savoie and offers a different experience. Snow-capped mountains, flower-filled mountain pastures, forests ablaze with autumn colours or crystal-clear blue lakes: the region offers scenery that changes with the passing months. The choice of when to visit depends above all on your preferences and the type of holiday you have in mind.

Spring brings life back to the Savoyard valleys. The snow gradually melts, revealing alpine pastures where daffodils and rhododendrons are in bloom. Temperatures rise gently and the days grow longer. This is the time when the lakes begin to warm up and hikers return to the trails. A holiday rental allows you to take your time enjoying this reawakening of nature, whilst adapting to the changeable weather typical of this transitional period.

Summer is the peak season in the mountains. The mountain pastures are at their most splendid, the lakes are a pleasant temperature for swimming, and there’s a wealth of outdoor activities on offer. The mild temperatures at altitude make for perfect days for hiking, cycling or simply enjoying picnics in the mountains. Holiday accommodation offers the flexibility to organise your days without the constraints of fixed timetables.

Autumn paints the forests in flamboyant colours. The mountain pastures are dotted with yellow and orange, the nights turn cool whilst the days generally remain clear. It is a quiet, less crowded season, ideal for contemplation and peaceful walks. A holiday rental guarantees the space and privacy to savour this transition in complete tranquillity.

Winter transforms Savoie into a snow-covered mountain destination. The peaks are blanketed in white, the ski resorts open their slopes, and a magical atmosphere takes hold. Temperatures drop, but sunny days are frequent. Renting a holiday home allows you to enjoy a genuine mountain setting without the constraints of a hotel stay.

A holiday home remains the most flexible option: it adapts to every season, to your own pace, and to your desires at any given moment.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Savoie

Savoie offers an exceptional playground for lovers of the mountains and the great outdoors. With snow-covered slopes, alpine trails and crystal-clear waters, there are countless ways to make the most of a stay in holiday accommodation. Here are three unmissable experiences that are a highlight of visitors’ holidays.

1. Skiing in the Trois Vallées ski area

The Trois Vallées ski area is one of the largest networks of slopes in Europe. Slopes suitable for skiers of all abilities sit alongside technical runs that are a delight for seasoned skiers. In winter, holiday rentals in Savoie become the ideal base from which to explore this vast network of ski lifts and slopes.

Address: Les Trois Vallées, 73120 Courchevel.

2. Hiking in the Vanoise National Park

As soon as the warmer weather arrives, the trails of the Vanoise National Park come to life. Larch forests, flowering mountain pastures and glacial lakes line the hiking trails. Walkers may spot ibex and marmots in their natural habitat. A holiday rental in the mountains allows you to use this flagship destination as a base and combine several days of exploring the park.

Address: Maison du Parc National de la Vanoise, 135 rue du Docteur Julliand, 73000 Chambéry.

3. Take a cruise on Lake Bourget

France’s largest natural lake offers different views depending on the season. In summer, a cruise on its tranquil waters allows you to discover the wooded shores and rocky cliffs from a new perspective. Lake Bourget captivates with its shades of blue and the serenity it inspires. Visitors can easily access this activity from their nearby holiday accommodation.

Address: Grand Port, 73100 Aix-les-Bains.

Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in Savoie

When booking a holiday rental in Savoie, the comfort of the accommodation is just as important as its location. With the harsh winters and mild summers of the Savoy mountains, travellers look for facilities that allow them to make the most of their stay, whether it’s warming up after a day’s skiing or relaxing after a hike. Good facilities transform a simple accommodation into a genuine mountain retreat.

• Efficient heating: in Savoie, winter temperatures require a reliable heating system to ensure comfortable nights and a cosy atmosphere during your stay.
• Fully equipped kitchen: having a functional kitchen means you can prepare your own meals and sample local specialities without having to rely on restaurants.
• Modern bathroom: after physical exertion, a refreshing shower or a nice hot bath means a lot to holidaymakers.
• Washing machine: this facility makes extended stays easier and is particularly handy for families with children.
• Wi-Fi connection: even in the mountains, staying connected allows travellers to share their experiences and manage their affairs.
• Terrace or balcony: a private outdoor space offers views of the peaks and moments of relaxation in the fresh air.
• Secure parking: in mountain areas, having a private or covered parking space protects your vehicle from frequent winter weather.
• Television: evenings in the mountains are made even more enjoyable with the comfort of video entertainment.
• A good-quality bed: a good night’s sleep is essential after a day of activities at high altitude.

Choosing a well-equipped holiday rental in Savoie ensures a stay that’s suited to the number of people, the type of activities planned and your budget. Accommodation designed with comfort in mind makes every day more enjoyable and creates more memorable experiences.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in Savoie?

Prices for holiday rentals in Savoie vary considerably depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. A small studio or one-bedroom flat generally costs between 40 and 80 euros per night in the low season, whilst a family property with three or four rooms costs between 70 and 150 euros per night. More spacious houses or flats, particularly those offering high-end facilities or a prime location, often exceed 150 euros per night.

Several factors influence these price ranges. Location plays a key role: a rental close to ski resorts or in the heart of a tourist village commands higher prices than a secluded house in a rural area. The season also makes a big difference. In summer and during school holidays, rates rise by 20 to 40 per cent compared with the low season. Stays of one or two nights cost more per night than weekly rentals, where sliding-scale rates often reduce the overall cost by 10 to 15 per cent.

To fine-tune your budget, check the terms and conditions for each accommodation: some properties offer discounts for long stays or early bookings. Reading reviews from previous guests will help you assess the true value for money. Booking several weeks in advance remains the best way to secure the best deals, especially in high season.