Haute-Savoie, Department of France in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, France
Haute-Savoie is an administrative department in eastern France that covers alpine peaks, prealpine lakes and border towns. The area runs from Lake Geneva in the north to the Mont Blanc massif in the south and holds wide valleys with spruce and fir forests.
The area shifted from Savoyard rule to France in 1860 through the Treaty of Turin. The border drawing followed a public vote and secured French control of alpine passes toward Italy.
The French name translates as Upper Savoy and refers to its elevated position compared to the southwestern neighbor department. Visitors notice bilingual town signs near borders and the use of regional products like Reblochon cheese in local dishes.
Travelers find four main towns that serve as starting points for hikes, ski trips and lake stays. Many roads run through narrow valleys with hairpin turns, so cautious driving is advisable during winter weather.
More than half of all municipalities sit above 600 meters (1,970 feet) in elevation, making snow clearing and winter services a year-round challenge. Some mountain villages remain accessible only by cable car or snowmobile in January and February.
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