What’s New In Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc This Summer

Framed by crystal-clear lakes, soaring Alpine peaks and the iconic Mont Blanc, the region of Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc offers a compelling mix of outdoor adventure, culture and gastronomy. As spring gives way to summer, the region’s landscapes come alive, with hiking trails emerging through unspoilt scenery, cyclists taking on legendary climbs and visitors gathering on the shores of its famous lakes.

Alongside its natural beauty, Haute-Savoie Mont Blanc is home to authentic villages, local markets, festivals and some of the world’s most prestigious sporting events. From the Tour de France and UTMB to internationally renowned music and animation festivals, summer 2026 promises plenty to discover.

What’s New for Spring-Summer 2026

Tramway du Mont Blanc reopens with new extension

Following three years of construction, France’s highest cog railway will reopen with an extension to the Nid d’Aigle refuge at 2,394m, the traditional starting point for ascents of Mont Blanc. As well as offering one of the Alps’ most scenic journeys, the Tramway plays an increasingly important role in supporting sustainable mobility and preserving Alpine rail heritage.

NEWTramway Mont-Blanc_©Fabian Bodet

Mont-Blanc Museum reopens in Chamonix

The Mont-Blanc Museum in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, formerly known as the Musée Alpin, will reopen in July 2026 following a complete refurbishment. Dedicated to the relationship between people and the mountains, the museum will feature immersive exhibitions exploring mountaineering, Alpine history and landscape heritage.

Western riding in the Aravis

Visitors looking for a different mountain experience can head to Flo Little Ranch in Saint-Jean-de-Sixt. Founded by barrel-racing champion Florence Pessey, the ranch offers trail rides and Western-style riding lessons for all abilities.

Dog-friendly tourism expands in Haut-Giffre

Awarded the French “Toutourisme” label in 2026, the Haut-Giffre Valley is expanding its dog-friendly tourism offer. New experiences include doga (yoga with dogs) and cani-balades alongside Nordic dogs.

More Michelin-starred dining

Haute-Savoie continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading gastronomic destination, with 21 Michelin-starred restaurants across the region. In 2026, La Table d’Armante in Saint-Nicolas-de-Véroce and Chalet Flachaire in Abondance join the prestigious list.

ViaRhôna cycling route expands

The ViaRhôna cycling route continues to develop across Haute-Savoie, offering leisurely rides along the Rhône and Lake Geneva. New greenway sections between Sciez and Excenevex, together with redesigned cycling routes around the Monts du Genevois and Thonon-les-Bains, make exploring the region by bike easier than ever.

Samoëns becomes a cycling hub

From 5–7 June 2026, the inaugural Baroudeurs des Alpes event will transform Samoëns into a cycling hotspot. The programme includes mountain-bike challenges and Gran Fondo road cycling events on legendary Alpine routes.

Spartan Ultra World Championship, Morzine

From 3–5 July 2026, Morzine will host the Spartan Ultra World Championship, bringing together elite obstacle-course racers from around the world in a test of endurance, strength and mental resilience.

Tour de France returns

Haute-Savoie will take centre stage during the Tour de France from 19–21 July 2026, hosting two major stages and a rest day. Highlights include a mountain stage finishing on the Solaison Plateau and an individual time trial between Évian-les-Bains and Thonon-les-Bains along the shores of Lake Geneva.

UCI Enduro World Cup, Morillon

Morillon will host the UCI Enduro World Cup for the second consecutive year from 15–16 August 2026. Riders will tackle the technical trails of the Giffre Valley in a competition that rewards precision, commitment and endurance.

UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, Les Gets

From 21–23 August 2026, Les Gets will welcome the sport’s top international riders for a round of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, reinforcing the resort’s reputation as a leading mountain biking destination.

UTMB returns to Chamonix

From 24–28 August 2026, the UTMB will once again bring together the world’s best trail runners in Chamonix. Recognised as one of the most prestigious endurance events in the world, the race attracts elite athletes and spectators from across the globe.

Annecy cycle route at Angon: Credit Philipe Royer

Summer Culture Highlights

Annecy International Animation Film Festival

From 21–27 June 2026, Annecy will once again welcome the global animation industry for its renowned Animation Film Festival. The event coincides with the opening of the Cité Internationale du Cinéma d’Animation, further strengthening Annecy’s position as a world centre for animation.

Rencontres Musicales d’Évian

Taking place from 24 June–5 July 2026, the Rencontres Musicales d’Évian brings internationally acclaimed artists to La Grange au Lac on the shores of Lake Geneva. Summer 2026 also sees the opening of a new chamber music venue in Évian-les-Bains, designed to deliver exceptional acoustics.

Cosmojazz Festival

From 20–25 July 2026, the Cosmojazz Festival returns to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Curated by André Manoukian, the festival combines music and mountain scenery through concerts staged in natural locations around the valley.

Image top: Tour Des Dents Blanches ©Christian Martellet

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