Summer Day Trips

Annecy

Annecy offers a full day out for all the family. Not only is it stunningly beautiful, but there is always plenty going on. Situated a 1:30hr drive away from Sainte Foy, the town sits on the shores of a beautiful lake that encompasses sailing, fishing, water skiing and swimming. There is also a cycle path that runs around most of the lake and a variety of boat cruises available.

Shopping in Annecy is diverse, from clothing boutiques to antique shops. Meanwhile, the local markets offer all the truly french flavours of local produce from food to art. All of this is enveloped by a selection of cafes, bars and restaurants that are surrounded by waterways and quaint foot bridges.

Day Trip to Italy

As the crow flies, Italy is right next door to Sainte foy and during the summer months the high mountain cols open, including the Col du Petit Saint Bernard which is a 20 minute drive away via La Rosiere. One can head over the col to enjoy the delights of Italy – pasta lunches Italian ice cream and limoncello. There’s also great shopping in picturesque towns like La Thuile. Pick up some Chianti, Italian cheeses & hams and other local produce.

Thermal Baths in Italy

For those that like to indulge in pampering, you can enjoy a complete day at Pre St Didier Thermal Spa in Italy which is just a 45 minute drive over the Col du Petit Saint Bernard. These natural thermal baths include a whole variety of waterfalls, bubbling pools, saunas, hammams, mud baths and grottos. A light buffet lunch is included, as are towels, robes and footwear.

Tour de France Cycle Routes

If you choose to base yourself at one of our chalets you will find an amazing array of day cycle routes that are varied and different. We offer a minibus service should you decide on a route that needs collection at the end of the day.

Come and stay for the few days beforehand to get acclimatised to the altitude, set up your bike and of course, pack in those all important calories beforehand.

The Triple Crown of famous Tour de France Cols

Not only are these 3 summits world renowned, they are all completely different whilst being challenging and rewarding. If you are a keen road biker, the triple crown is a must:

Le Col de l’Iseran – keep going once you hit Val d’Isere and complete the last 14km of spectacular riding to the col itself.

Col du Petit St Bernard set off from the resort, or From Sainte Foy main Town. For a more relaxed climbing ratio, you can also depart from Bourg St Maurice.

Cormet du Roselend – an absolutely stunning 20km cycle up through an enclosed valley from Bourg St Maurice. The views over the other side are breathtaking of the Roselend lake and the impressive dam.

If you are not quite up for such high altitude challenges there are plenty of smaller, lower and very pretty routes to enjoy in the area, including relatively flat cycle paths alongside the river which the whole family can enjoy.