Burgundy, Annecy and Mont Blanc: wine, lakes and peaks

Beaune breathes wine and history. This picturesque town in Burgundy is world-famous for its vineyards and cellars, where you can taste the finest Burgundy wines. The iconic Hôtel-Dieu with its colourful tiled roof is a 15th-century architectural masterpiece. Wander through the cosy streets filled with wine houses, restaurants and boutiques. The medieval city walls and bastions tell stories from bygone eras. Beaune is also the perfect base for exploring the famous wine route. Here you'll enjoy authentic France at its best.

Nestled between the French Alps and the shores of Europe's cleanest lake, Annecy captivates visitors with its fairy-tale charm. The medieval old town enchants with pastel-colored houses, flower-lined canals, and cobblestone streets that lead to the iconic Palais de l'Isle. Lake Annecy's turquoise waters invite you to swim, sail, or simply relax on its beaches while soaking up mountain views. The surrounding peaks offer year-round outdoor adventures, from hiking and cycling to paragliding over the stunning landscape. Charming cafés and traditional Savoyard restaurants dot the town, serving local specialties like tartiflette and fresh lake fish. The weekly markets burst with regional cheeses, cured meats, and artisan crafts. Whether you're exploring the historic Château d'Annecy, strolling along the lakeside promenade, or cycling the scenic 42-kilometer loop around the lake, this Alpine gem promises an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Chamonix is a legendary alpine resort town situated in the French Alps, directly beneath Western Europe's highest peak, Mont Blanc. This charming destination combines traditional Savoyard architecture with a vibrant international atmosphere, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from around the globe. In winter, the extensive ski area features challenging slopes and off-piste terrain that appeals to experienced skiers, while the famous Aiguille du Midi cable car transports visitors to 3,842 meters for spectacular panoramic views. Summer transforms Chamonix into a paradise for hikers and mountaineers, with countless trails winding through pristine valleys and dramatic glaciers. The town center buzzes with cozy restaurants, stylish boutiques, and lively bars where you can relax after a day in the mountains. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or simply want to soak in the majestic alpine scenery, Chamonix delivers an unforgettable mountain experience. The blend of natural beauty, sporting excellence, and French alpine charm makes this destination truly special.

Albertville gained worldwide fame as host of the 1992 Winter Olympics, transforming this charming Savoyard town into a gateway to some of the Alps' finest ski destinations. The medieval quarter of Conflans, perched on a hilltop, enchants visitors with its cobbled streets, ancient ramparts, and stunning views over the valley below. Modern Albertville buzzes with life in its town center, where shops, restaurants, and the Olympic legacy create a vibrant atmosphere. The town serves as the perfect base for exploring nearby world-renowned resorts like Courchevel, Méribel, and Val d'Isère, all within easy reach. Summer brings opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and white-water rafting on the Isère River. Local markets showcase Savoyard specialties including Beaufort cheese, cured meats, and regional wines. Whether you're drawn by winter sports, medieval history, or Alpine adventures, Albertville offers an authentic taste of mountain life with excellent connections to the surrounding peaks.

Lyon enchants visitors with its unique blend of history, culture, and culinary excellence. The city's UNESCO-listed Old Town transports you back to Renaissance times with its traboules—secret passageways that wind through ancient buildings. As France's gastronomic capital, Lyon delights food lovers with traditional bouchons serving authentic Lyonnaise cuisine and innovative restaurants pushing culinary boundaries. The Presqu'île district offers elegant shopping streets and vibrant squares, while Fourvière Hill provides breathtaking panoramic views from its stunning basilica. Modern attractions like the Confluence Museum showcase Lyon's contemporary side, and the Fête des Lumières transforms the city into a magical light spectacle each December. With its perfect location between Paris and the French Riviera, Lyon serves as an ideal base for exploring the Rhône-Alpes region.