From Annecy to Chamonix

The charming village of Menthon-Saint-Bernard will be your first stop of the day, right after half-an-hour scenic drive along the lake. You will enjoy the pedestrian promenade of the port. You can even have a morning swim if you are up to, at the beach of Menthon.
There is an impressive medieval castle at the top of the village. Unfortunately, it doesn't open before 12 or 14, so you won't be able to visit inside in the morning, but you can have a look from outside.

Located in a magnificent traditionnal chalet in La Clusaz, le Hameau des Alpes is a great local museum, perfect to discover Alpine traditions. You will learn everything about the "Reblochon fermier", one of the most popular cheese of Savoy. There is also a nice exhibit about winter skiing and how La Clusaz became a ski resort. The museum is really suitable for children.
Open Hours Monday: closed Tuesday - Sunday: 10:00 - 13:00, 14:00 - 18:00

After La Clusaz, get ready for the tough climb to col des Aravis, made famous by the cycling race of the Tour de France. At 1487 metres high, enjoy the stunning view of Mont Blanc towards the East. You will find a couple of gift shops and encounter peaceful alpine cows. Don't miss the nice little chapel, typical of the French Alps.

Have lunch at this typical restaurant with a breathtaking view. Very warm welcome and generous cuisine.
Open Hours Monday - Sunday: 09:00 - 23:00

If you are interested in religious architecture, the church of Saint-Nicolas-de-Véroce is worth a stop on the road to Chamonix. It is one of the crown jewels of Alpine Baroque Art. Built in the 18th century, you will be amazed by its colorful and shimmering interior decoration. It is known for its "Saint-Nicolas blue" painted on the vaults.
Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 09:00 - 19:00

You have arrived in Chamonix. You can park your car and check-in at your hotel before visiting the place.

Before wandering around Chamonix, take some time to visit this little crystal museum. The exhibition offers an immersion in the mineralogy of the Alps, France and the world. You will discover the old tradition of quartz harvesting in the Mont-Blanc area which is still alive today.
Open Hours: Monday: closed Tuesday - Sunday: 10:00 - 12:00, 14:00- 18:00

Now it's time to stroll around Chamonix old town, which is a very charming alpine city with authentic character and lots of colourful flowers in summer time. Don't miss the Jacques-Balmat square and the Docteur-Paccard street, both named after the two first climbers of the Mont Blanc in 1786. At the center of Chamonix pedestrian area, there is a lovely Baroque church, the church of St-Michel, housing beautiful paintings.

Have dinner at this nice restaurant with a lovely view on the Mont Blanc. The interior decoration is very nice with old style telecabins made into tables. You can book a table on their website.
Open Hours: Monday - Sunday 12:00 - 23:00

After this long day, it is time to rest in this charming hotel. Don't go to bed too late because a big day awaits you on the following day!