Megève: A breathtaking Alpine heritage setting

Ah, Megève! This name instantly conjures up the image of a chic and trendy ski resort, doesn't it? But did you know that behind its snowy slopes and luxury boutiques lies a heritage of unsuspected richness? Come on, put on your après-ski (or your sneakers if you prefer), let's discover this alpine treasure!

The Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste: the beating heart of Megève since the 13th century

Let's start our walk with the jewel of Megève: the church Saint-Jean-Baptiste. It is impossible to miss it, its bell tower dominates the village like a lighthouse in the middle of the ocean. Except that here, the ocean is more like a sea of wooden chalets!

An imposing bell tower

Just imagine: this bell tower, visible from afar, has been there since the 13th century. Suffice to say that he has seen a lot of people come and go! Its shingle roof gives it a crazy charm, as if it were wearing a mountain hat.

Frescoes that are worth a visit

Mais le vrai trésor, il est à l’intérieur. Les fresques du 15 ème siècle qui ornent les murs sont de véritables témoins de l’histoire locale. C’est comme un livre d’histoire grandeur nature, sauf qu’ici, pas besoin de tourner les pages !

L’église Saint-Jean-Baptiste, édifice emblématique, trône fièrement au cœur du village de Megève.

Chapels and hamlets: faith anchored in the body (and in the landscape)

If you thought that Megève had only one church, think again! The village and its surroundings are dotted with small chapels, like so many exclamation points in the landscape.

Chapels on every street corner (or almost)

These chapels, scattered all over the place, are like the little sisters of the church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste. They bear witness to the deep faith of the inhabitants of Megève through the centuries. It's a bit as if each neighborhood wanted to have its own little corner of paradise!

The Calvary: a Way of the Cross with a view

Among these chapels, Calvary deserves special mention. This Way of the Cross leading to a chapel offers a panoramic view of the village. It is the ideal place to take to the skies (literally and figuratively) and admire Megève in all its splendour.

Hamlets that have kept their soul

And what about the surrounding hamlets such as Le Maz, Le Bettex and Demi-Quartier? These little gems have retained their rural character and authenticity. It's a bit like time has stopped, but better: we still have electricity and internet!

Farms and chalets: when Savoyard architecture puts on a show

Okay, now that we've done the tour of the churches, let's get down to business: the chalets! Because frankly, when you think of Megève, you inevitably think of chalets, don't you?

Traditional farms: the soul of Megève

The traditional farms of Megève are a bit like the grandmothers of the village: they have character, they are warm, and they have lots of stories to tell. Built in wood and stone, they are the epitome of Savoyard architecture.

Luxury chalets: tradition with a touch of bling

And then there are the luxury chalets. Ah, those famous chalets that make you dream! They have kept the spirit of traditional farmhouses, but with a little boost in comfort. It's a bit like taking a 2CV and transforming it into a Ferrari, while keeping the retro charm.

The luxury chalets have become the symbols of Megève's appeal to a wealthy clientele, combining architectural tradition and modern comfort.

Chalet Ararat: when luxury meets heritage

And since we're talking about luxury chalets, it's impossible not to mention the Chalet Ararat. This little gem of 600 m² (yes, yes, you read that right) is the perfect example of the mix between tradition and modernity that makes the charm of Megève.

Located a stone's throw from the slopes of La Princesse, Chalet Ararat offers a breathtaking view of the Aravis mountain range. It's a bit like taking the best of Megève and concentrating it in one place. Floor-to-ceiling windows to enjoy the landscape, fireplace for cocooning evenings, indoor swimming pool to play Olympic swimmer (or not)... In short, heaven on earth!

Did you know?

Chalet Ararat can accommodate up to 15 people in its 7 spacious bedrooms.
It has a private cinema room for popcorn nights with family or friends.
An elevator connects the four levels of the chalet, because even on holiday, why bother?
The cottage has been mentioned in several press articles, praising its luxury and convenient location.

The Megève Museum: when the past becomes a storyteller

After all this architecture, how about a bit of culture? Head to the museum of Megève! It's a bit like a time machine, except that here, you don't need a DeLorean.

From farming village to popular ski resort

The museum traces the fascinating evolution of Megève, from its past as a modest farming village to its current status as a posh ski resort. It's a bit like the museum equivalent of the "before/after" of makeover shows, but in a whole village version!

Objects that speak

The museum's collections are filled with objects that each tell a part of the history of Megève. From agricultural tools to the first skis, including traditional costumes, each piece has a story to tell. It's as if objects could talk... And believe me, they have things to say!

The Palais des Sports: when modernity invites itself to the party

Okay, enough about the past, let's talk a little about the present and the future! And for that, there is nothing better than to take a tour of the Palais des Sports.

A complex that doesn't do things by halves

The Palais des Sports is a bit like the Swiss Army knife of Megève. Swimming pool, ice rink, fitness room... You can find everything there! It is the ideal place for those who want to do sports... or just watch others make it while sipping hot chocolate.

Events galore

But the Palais des Sports is not just about sport (phew!). It also hosts competitions and cultural events throughout the year. Concerts, exhibitions, shows... There is something for everyone. It's a bit like if Broadway had decided to take a vacation in the mountains!

The International Jazz Festival: when Megève swings

Among the events that enliven the cultural life of Megève, the International Jazz Festival deserves a special mention. Just imagine: the biggest names in jazz who come to make the mountains swing... It's as if New Orleans had moved to the Alps for a festival!

Stroll in the heart of Megève: a village that has (sledding) dogs

To finish our tour of Megève's heritage, there's nothing like a short walk in the centre of the village. Get ready to be amazed (and maybe also in your wallet)!

A pedestrian centre that invites you to stroll

The centre of Megève is entirely pedestrianised. It is a paradise for walkers and strollers. No cars, no horns, just the sound of your footsteps on the cobblestones and the tinkling of cowbells in the distance (well, okay, maybe not in the middle of the city, but let me dream).

The Place de l'Eglise: the beating heart of Megève

The Place de l'Eglise is a bit like the heart of Megève. That's where everything happens, where everyone gets together. It's like the village square in Asterix, except that here, instead of wild boars, we eat fondue instead!

Cobblestone streets with stories to tell

Megève's cobbled streets are lined with traditional chalets and luxury boutiques. It's an amazing mix between old-world charm and modern glamour. It's a bit like if your grandmother was dressed at Chanel: a perfect mix between tradition and elegance!

Charming hotels for dream nights

Megève is full of charming hotels that combine modern comfort and Savoyard architecture. It is the perfect place to rest after a day of skiing or heritage visits. And then, frankly, who hasn't dreamed of sleeping in a chalet worthy of a fairy tale?

The market: when the taste buds celebrate

The weekly market in Megève is a must. It is an opportunity to discover local products and taste Savoyard specialities. Cheeses, charcuterie, honey... Your taste buds will be waterskiing in your mouth!

Une ambiance conviviale et familiale

Despite its status as a posh resort, Megève has managed to preserve a friendly and family atmosphere. That's what makes it so charming. It feels like home, but better (unless your house is already a luxury chalet in Megève, in which case... Can you invite me?)

Chalet Ararat: your gateway to Megève's heritage

What if, to really experience the heritage of Megève, you put your suitcases down at Chalet Ararat? It's not just a luxury chalet, it's a real immersion in the soul of Megève.

A perfect balance between past and present

What really makes Megève so charming is this subtle balance between its rich past and its dynamic present. It is as if the village has managed to keep one foot in each era, skilfully juggling between tradition and modernity. And frankly, hats off, because it's not given to everyone!

An invitation to explore

So, whether you are a history fan, an architecture lover, or simply curious to discover a piece of alpine paradise, Megève is waiting for you. It is an invitation to explore, to discover, and why not, to a little journey through time.

Chalet Ararat: your base for adventure

And if you really want to live the Megève experience to the fullest, why not put your bags down at Chalet Ararat? It is the ideal place to immerse yourself in the heritage of Megève while enjoying a comfort worthy of a maharaja. After all, who says you can't explore history in style?

So, what are you waiting for? Megève and its heritage are waiting for you. Who knows, maybe by walking through its cobbled streets, admiring its centuries-old church or enjoying a fondue in a traditional chalet, you too will write a little page in the history of this extraordinary village. And if so, don't forget to invite me to tell it!