Savoie, Department in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Description
Savoie is an administrative territory in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, stretching between the French and Italian Alps and shaped by valleys, lakes, and peaks. The capital Chambéry sits in a broad valley, while towns like Aix-les-Bains rest on the shore of Lac du Bourget, France's largest natural lake.
History
This territory became part of France in 1860, when the Duchy of Savoy was divided into two administrative units following the Treaty of Turin. Centuries earlier, the region served as an important link between the Mediterranean and central Europe, with mountain passes guiding traders and armies across the peaks.
Culture
Traditional cuisine here centers around dishes like tartiflette and fondue savoyarde, served in restaurants and mountain chalets throughout the territory. In the higher elevations, cheesemakers work in small huts during summer months, producing varieties such as Beaufort and Reblochon using methods passed down through centuries.
Practical
Mountain villages and ski resorts are best reached by car, though buses link the main resort towns during winter. Many roads wind through steep passes that can close during heavy snow, so carry chains in winter months.
Did you know?
The Col de l'Iseran, which runs through this territory, stands as the highest paved mountain pass in the Alps at over 2,764 meters (9,068 feet). Cyclists in the Tour de France tackle this route when the race schedule brings them through the region each year.
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Mont Blanc
49.8 km
Alpe d'Huez
58.7 km
Lake Annecy
32.4 km
Tour du Mont Blanc
54.1 km
Lac du Bourget
40 km
Aiguille du Midi
54.2 km
Les Arcs
37 km
Great St Bernard Pass
72.4 km
Les 3 Vallées
33.3 km
Lac d'Aiguebelette
41.9 km
Route des Grandes Alpes
57 km
Mer de Glace
59.8 km
Grande Chartreuse
48.7 km
Col de l'Iseran
57.5 km
Hautecombe Abbey
42.9 kmTarentaise Valley
25 km
Vanoise National Park
47.9 km
Elephants Fountain
32 km
Tignes Dam
47.7 km
Roselend Dam
24.7 km
Vallée Blanche Aerial Tramway
54.2 km
Grandes Jorasses
59.6 km
Rotonde ferroviaire de Chambéry
32.5 km
Château de Vizille
71.6 km
Museum of Grenoble
63.9 km
Great St Bernard Hospice
72.4 km
Rocciamelone
71.9 km
Bastille
64 km
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