North Alps Road Trip

The North Alps Road Trip is an unforgettable adventure that takes you through the stunning French Alps. Starting in the picturesque town of Yvoire, the 373km journey takes you through Chamonix, Megeve and Val d'Isere before ending in Saint Michel de Maurienne. The best time of the year to drive this route is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and the views are at their best. Along the way, you will be treated to breathtaking landscapes, including majestic mountains, lush green forests and crystal clear lakes. The roads are generally in good condition, though some sections may be narrow and winding, and seasonal road closures due to weather conditions may occur. Although the North Alps Road Trip requires a relatively high budget, it is an experience that will remain with you for many years to come, and is suitable for drivers of all levels.

Yvoire is an idyllic destination situated in the South of France, on the northern end of Lake Geneva. Located on the famous 'North Alps Road Trip', Yvoire offers travelers an unforgettable experience. A quaint village with winding cobblestone streets and picturesque architecture, Yvoire is a must-see for those looking for a charming French getaway. Visitors to Yvoire will find plenty of things to do and see. The village boasts a beautiful harbor, with boats docked that can be rented for exploring the lake. Yvoire is also home to a variety of charming shops and restaurants, as well as a stunning castle dating back to the 13th century. Other attractions include a 13th century church, a historic town hall, and a beautiful botanical garden. For those traveling to Yvoire by air, the closest international airport is Geneva Airport (GVA). From there, visitors can easily rent a car and begin their journey along the 'North Alps Road Trip'. Along this route, travelers can explore the magnificent Lake Geneva, as well as the French Alps, with its majestic mountain peaks and stunning alpine scenery. Yvoire is a wonderful starting point for a road trip along the 'North Alps Road Trip'. With its beautiful harbor, charming shops and restaurants, and stunning castle, Yvoire is sure to be a memorable part of any traveler's journey.

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Yvoire, France to Chamonix! This 140km journey will take you less than 3 hours and will show you some of the most beautiful sites in the region. Start your trip in Yvoire, a picturesque medieval village situated on the shores of Lake Geneva. From there, you will drive to Evian les Bains, a beautiful spa town with stunning views of the lake. Continue your drive to Morzine, famous for its ski resorts and breathtaking mountain scenery. Finally, you will arrive in Chamonix, the gateway to Mont Blanc. Along the way, you will be able to admire historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. Please be aware that some sections of the route may be inaccessible to cars with camper trailers, and some sections may be closed seasonally. Additionally, you will encounter steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow roads. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on an exciting road trip from Chamonix to Megeve, passing through Saint Gervais les Bains. The journey is only 32km and should take less than an hour to complete. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the French Alps, and while some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, you’ll still be able to take in the sights of the steep ramps and winding roads. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for some of the most interesting attractions, such as the alpine meadows and the glacial lakes. If you’re looking for a place to stay, there are plenty of accommodation options in each of the three locations. You can also find recommended restaurants and campsites in the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, take your time and enjoy the journey – you’re sure to have a great time!

Embark on a 112 km road trip starting in Megeve, France and ending in Val d'Isere. Along the way, be sure to stop in Beaufort to take in the sights. This journey should take no more than 3 hours, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the scenic views. As you drive, keep in mind that some sections of the route may be inaccessible to cars with camper trailers, and some sections may be closed seasonally. There will be steep ramps and sections of the road that are very winding, as well as sections that are quite narrow. Make sure to take your time and be aware of your surroundings. Be sure to stop in Beaufort and take in the sights of this charming mountain village. Val d'Isere, the final destination, is a beautiful ski resort town with plenty to see and do. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

Embark on a magical 89 km road trip from Val d'Isere to Saint Michel de Maurienne, taking in some of the most beautiful scenery in the French Alps. This journey, which takes just under 2 hours, will take you through the picturesque village of Bonneval sur Arc, where you can explore the local church and take in the stunning views of the valley. As you drive, keep an eye out for the breathtaking views of the mountains and the winding roads. Be aware that there are some sections of the route that are inaccessible to cars with camper trailers, as well as some sections that may be closed seasonally. You will also encounter some steep ramps and narrow roads, so make sure you take extra care when driving. When you arrive in Saint Michel de Maurienne, don’t forget to explore the old town and enjoy the local cuisine. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage.

Saint Michel de Maurienne is an ideal destination to end your North Alps Road Trip. Located in the Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, this town is nestled in the Maurienne Valley and surrounded by the French Alps. It's a great place to explore the beauty of the region and enjoy some of the best scenery in France. When you arrive in Saint Michel de Maurienne, you'll want to explore the old town. The architecture here is a mix of traditional and modern styles, and you'll find plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to enjoy. One of the most popular attractions is the Musée des Traditions Populaires, where you can learn about local culture and history. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, head to the nearby Col du Télégraphe. This mountain pass is an excellent spot for hiking, mountain biking, and even skiing in the winter. Or take a drive to the nearby Mont Cenis Lake, where you can relax by the water and take in stunning views of the alpine landscape. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is located in Geneva, Switzerland (IATA code GVA). From there, you can easily access Saint Michel de Maurienne by car. At the end of your North Alps Road Trip, you’ll find plenty to do in Saint Michel de Maurienne. From exploring the old town to enjoying outdoor activities, it’s an ideal destination for your French getaway.

Before you set off

The North Alps Road Trip is an enchanting 373km journey that takes you through the heart of the French Alps, starting from the floral village of Yvoire on the shores of Lake Geneva to the historic Saint Michel de Maurienne. This route is a visual treat, offering a tapestry of alpine landscapes including majestic mountains, verdant forests, and serene lakes.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Yvoire: This well-preserved medieval town is celebrated for Labyrinthe - Jardin des Cinq Sens, a garden designed to stimulate all five senses, and its stunning lakeside views.
• Chamonix: Nestled at the base of Mont Blanc, the highest summit in the Alps, Chamonix is a mecca for climbers and skiers and hosts the famous cable car ride to Aiguille du Midi, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
• Megeve: Established by the Rothschild family as a ski resort in the early 1920s, Megeve exudes elegance with its upscale boutiques, refined dining, and charming cobblestone streets.
• Val d'Isere: Known for its world-class ski terrain, this resort transforms into a bicyclist's paradise in the summer with routes like the Col de l'Iseran, the highest paved pass in the Alps.
• Saint Michel de Maurienne: The gateway to the spectacular Vanoise National Park, a natural habitat for a rich variety of flora and fauna, including the ibex and golden eagle.

Best Time to Go:

While summer (June to September) is perfect for hiking and enjoying the alpine meadows in full bloom, winter (December to April) offers a snowy wonderland with some of Europe's best skiing conditions.

Potential Risks:

• The mountain Roads are often narrow, and twisty, and may involve steep climbs, requiring attentive driving.
• Unexpected Road closures can occur, particularly in winter or early spring, due to heavy snowfall or the risk of avalanches.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The route can be a showcase of alpine culture, with opportunities to sample regional cuisines, such as raclette and tartiflette, in the cozy mountain villages.
• The Road Trip is accessible to drivers of varying expertise, but an adventurous spirit and appreciation for nature enhance the experience.
• The area boasts a rich Olympic legacy, with Chamonix hosting the first Winter Olympics in 1924 and Albertville in 1992, which included events in Val d'Isere.

A good choice for:

Immersive and luxurious, the North Alps Road Trip is an unforgettable exploration that combines natural wonder, cultural richness, and a touch of glamour. It's an extraordinary journey for those seeking dramatic landscapes, outdoor adventures, and the charm of alpine tradition.