Guided Tours & Cultural Experiences
A vibrant destination to explore – perfect for individuals and groups
There’s Annecy, but that’s just the beginning! There are so many wonderful places we’d love to share with you: well-known spots, of course, but also hidden gems. Charming villages, hamlets, and small towns… by a lake, at the foot of a mountain, tucked away in a secluded valley…
The Pays de Savoie has a rich history, shaped by its natural and cultural heritage. Want to discover it off the beaten path? We’ll guide you through unusual and authentic experiences across the region. We open doors, take back roads, meet locals… so follow us! Laurence, our guide and storyteller, will share her passion for the Alps and mountain culture—on foot and by bike.
Each tour can be turned into a private experience for families, small groups, or larger groups—children, teens, adults alike. Whether for a vacation, a corporate seminar, or an educational outing for school groups, anything is possible.
Custom pricing available upon request.
We also organize full-day excursions for groups.
Our Favorites
The History of Alpine Pastures – Heritage, Culture & Delicacies
On a gentle walk along the pedestrian trails, departing from Sommand or Praz de Lys (on request), I will guide you on a journey into the heart of the station’s history, alpine pastures, and mountain traditions that have shaped life here.
From the heights of the plateau, we will trace the evolution of Praz de Lys Sommand: from the first alpine chalets to the major summer grazing periods, from the development of the ski resort to its enduring connections with the Giffre and Brevon valleys. You will discover how the mountains were lived in, cultivated, and traversed long before the arrival of skis!
Through anecdotes, rural heritage, past ways of life, and local stories, this gentle walk becomes a true immersion into the identity of our mountains.
And because discovery also involves the taste buds, the outing will end with a gourmet break showcasing local flavors.
Why you’ll love it: A gentle and inspiring experience where nature, discovery, and winter ambiance come together harmoniously. Accessible to all—families, friends, curious explorers, or lovers of authenticity—this outing offers a peaceful and charming bubble in the heart of the mountains.
Program: Thursday afternoons: Meeting at 1:30 PM in front of Hôtel Les Roches 1500 / 2 Route de la Ramaz / Plateau de Sommand – Mieussy. Other dates available on request.
Highlights:
No particular physical difficulty – a route combining nature and local treats
Stunning scenery and a timeless moment
Requirements: Love history Enjoy blending into nature Take your time Appreciate disconnection Snow equipment: suitable shoes and clothing
Price includes:
Supervision by a guide (Laurence), specialist in local life, stories, and treats
Guidance and the snack
Rates: Adults: €25 Children 8–16 years old: €15
Reservation required by Wednesday evening.
For booking or more information: Contact us
L'histoire des alpages de Praz de Lys Sommand descriptif.pdf
The Treasures of Lake Annecy
With Poudre d’Escampette, discover the lakeside villages at a slow tourism pace—a travel approach that emphasizes taking your time to explore villages authentically, savoring the landscapes, local culture, and human encounters.
We’ll take you to Duingt and/or Talloires, charming villages that have preserved their authenticity. Stroll through narrow streets, admire traditional houses, castles, and abbeys… a peaceful atmosphere awaits.
By embracing slow tourism, you can fully enjoy the beauty and richness of Duingt and Talloires, living each moment to the fullest.
Half-day walking tour with tasting/snack included.
Price per person: from €39 per person
©Les Passagers du Vent – Lake Annecy Tourism
To book or for more information: Contact us
A Leisurely Walk in Old Annecy
With Poudre d’Escampette, strolling through Old Annecy is like stepping into a fairy tale, where every cobbled street tells a story. Colorful houses with flowered façades line the streets, creating a picturesque scene that delights at every turn. The gentle murmur of the canals, crossed by charming bridges, brings a unique sense of serenity, while artisanal shops and welcoming cafés invite you to relax.
Let yourself be guided by the timeless charm of the Palais de l’Île, the city’s emblem, and discover the hidden treasures of the small shaded squares. Old Annecy is a true jewel of beauty and tranquility, where time seems to stand still, offering visitors a moment of pure escape.
Join us!
Price per person: €39, including a tasty break – 2.5-hour walking tour
To book or for more information: Contact us
Lake Annecy E-Bike Adventure – A Taste of History and Cuisine
With Poudre d’Escampette, embark on an e-bike journey to discover the lakeside villages at a slow tourism pace—a travel approach that emphasizes taking your time to explore villages authentically, savoring the landscapes, local culture, and human encounters.
Stroll through narrow streets, admire traditional houses, castles, and abbeys… a peaceful atmosphere awaits. By embracing slow tourism, you can fully enjoy the beauty and richness of Duingt and Talloires, living each moment to the fullest.
Half-day tour by e-bike, with a tasting/snack included.
Price per person: €90, including e-bike rental and gourmet break. Minimum 5 participants.
Group rates available upon request.
To book or for more information: Contact us
Exploring the Medieval Village of Yvoire – Lake Geneva
On the shores of Lake Geneva, the magnificent medieval village of Yvoire is best explored at a relaxed pace. Take the time to discover this beautifully preserved place together—a true jewel on the shores of the Franco-Swiss lake. Group rates available – optional coach accompaniment.
Price per person: €39, including a gourmet break – 2.5-hour walking tour – minimum 6 participants.
Group rates available upon request, with or without a gourmet break.
To book or for more information: Contact us
The Little Jacquemard Journey
This half-day journey takes you through the village center and historic hamlets to discover hidden gems and remarkable architectural heritage.
Theme: Cultural – Local Heritage Transport: On foot Location: Village of Taninges (outside the Chartreuse) Season: March to All Saints’ Day Audience: All ages
Program: Meeting point: Chapelle de Flérier
Welcome and introduction
Explore the hamlet of Flérier and its chapel – the village’s first church
Departure for the old town – Château Square – stroll through the park
Enter the historic village via the humpback bridge and wander through its preserved streets – fountains, chapels, “traboules,” montée du Char, Jacquemard trail, beautiful Renaissance buildings, and Rue des Arcades with old doors and shop signs
Visit the Heritage House to learn about traditional crafts and local trades
Stop at Saint-Jean Baptiste Church and enjoy a gourmet break
What you’ll love: Architectural richness, stunning views, wandering the streets, tasty treats, and discovering hidden corners off the beaten path.
Highlights: Easy walking – a mix of heritage and nature – beautiful scenery.
Gourmet break included (Savoyard cake, fruit juice, cheese): €20 adults / €10 children under 12 – Duration: 2h30
For bookings or information: Contact us
Summer 2025: The Little Jacquemard Journey
This half-day journey takes you through the village center and historic hamlets to discover hidden gems and remarkable architectural heritage.
Theme: Cultural – Local Heritage Transport: On foot Location: Village of Taninges (outside the Chartreuse) Season: March to All Saints’ Day Audience: All ages
Program: Meeting point: Chapelle de Flérier
Welcome and introduction
Explore the hamlet of Flérier and its chapel – the village’s first church
Departure for the old town – Château Square – stroll through the park
Enter the historic village via the humpback bridge and wander through its preserved streets – fountains, chapels, “traboules,” montée du Char, Jacquemard trail, beautiful Renaissance buildings, and Rue des Arcades with old doors and shop signs
Visit the Heritage House to learn about traditional crafts and local trades
Stop at Saint-Jean Baptiste Church and enjoy a gourmet break
What you’ll love: Architectural richness, stunning views, wandering the streets, tasty treats, and discovering hidden corners off the beaten path.
Highlights: Easy walking – a mix of heritage and nature – beautiful scenery.
Gourmet break included (Savoyard cake, fruit juice, cheese): €20 adults / €10 children under 12 – Duration: 2h30
For bookings or information: Contact us
Discover Chamonix Mont-Blanc, the World Capital of Mountaineering
At the foot of the giant of the Alps, Chamonix Mont-Blanc, the world capital of mountaineering, reveals itself with ease. This mountain town is full of charm. Its rich history of mountains and tourism, the birthplace of mountaineering, and the surrounding natural landscapes all deserve a special stop. Optional accompaniment to Montenvers / Mer de Glace. Coach accompaniment available.
Price per person: €39, including a gourmet break – 2.5-hour walking tour – minimum 6 participants.
Group rates available upon request, with or without a gourmet break.
To book or for more information: Contact us
Chamonix Mont-Blanc, Capital of Mountaineering and the Mer de Glace
Spend a full day immersed in this unique town, dominated by peaks and domes reaching over 4,000 meters. The goal of our guided tour is to start in the morning off the beaten path, sharing our knowledge of the town, its history, the history of mountaineering and mountain tourism, its cultural and natural heritage, and its geography. Learn about its origins, outdoor activities, and the remarkable feats and challenges of men and women throughout its history.
In the afternoon, access the Mer de Glace via the Montenvers train, climbing to nearly 2,000 meters, with insights on the direct effects of climate change. Optional visit to the Crystal Museum.
Price: available upon request, depending on group composition.
To book or for more information: Contact us
Discover the Mélan Charterhouse with a taste of local delights
The Mélan Charterhouse in Taninges is one of the most beautiful witnesses to the history of the Montagnes du Giffre. Explore the 13th-century church and the 16th-century cloister, still well preserved. Stroll through an exceptional monumental sculpture park, take your time to pause, and savor local Savoyard treats.
Theme: Cultural – local heritage – gastronomy
Transport: On foot
Location: Taninges – Mélan Charterhouse site
Season: April to All Saints’ Day
Audience: Suitable for all
Program
Meeting point: Mélan Charterhouse parking lot
Welcome – introduction to the site and the Montagnes du Giffre
Discover this landmark of the valley – over 700 years of history. Learn about Béatrix de Faucigny and the pastures of Praz de Lys
Walk through the monumental sculpture park
Gourmet break
What you’ll love
A place full of history, an inspiring site! Cultural immersion in the heart of the church and cloister, the great bench, and Gâteau de Savoie.
Highlights:
Easy, accessible route
A journey combining heritage and nature
Inspiring surroundings
Prerequisites:
Love for historic architecture
Desire to disconnect and unwind
Gourmet break (Gâteau de Savoie, fruit juice, cheese): €20 adults, €10 children under 12 – Duration: 2 hours
©Marion Carcel Foehn Photographie – CCMontagnes du Giffre
To book or for more information: Contact us
Mélan Charterhouse and gourmet break
The Mélan Charterhouse in Taninges is one of the finest witnesses to the history of the Montagnes du Giffre. Discover the 13th-century church and the 16th-century cloister, still beautifully preserved. Stroll through an exceptional monumental sculpture park, take your time to pause, and savor local Savoyard treats.
Theme: Cultural – local heritage – gastronomy Transport: On foot Location: Taninges – Mélan Charterhouse site Season: April to All Saints’ Day Audience: Suitable for all
Program
Meeting point: Mélan Charterhouse parking lot
Welcome – presentation of the site and the Montagnes du Giffre
Discover this landmark of the valley – over 700 years of history. Learn about Béatrix de Faucigny and the pastures of Praz de Lys
Walk through the monumental sculpture park
Savoyard tasting
Highlights
A place full of history, an inspiring site! Cultural immersion in the heart of the church and cloister, the great bench, and Gâteau de Savoie.
Extras:
Easy route – suitable for all
Combines heritage and nature
Inspiring surroundings
Prerequisites:
Love for historic architecture
Desire to disconnect and unwind
Price per person: €39 – €20 for children
©Thomas Garcia / ©Marion Carcel Foehn Photographie – CCMontagnes du Giffre
To book or for more information: Contact us
Two days of little wonders and hidden treasures
Step into a timeless journey through the Montagnes du Giffre. Ride from Mieussy to Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, climbing gently toward the sources of the Giffre River in the heart of the exceptional natural site of the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval. Along the way, discover beautiful traditional villages, little-known historic towns, and hidden corners, all set against a backdrop of generous and unspoiled nature.
A 2-day itinerary from Mieussy to Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval.
What you’ll love
An inspiring experience at your own pace, uncovering the hidden treasures of the Montagnes du Giffre. A balanced mix of walking and cycling routes. Gourmet breaks featuring local products. Time to unwind and reconnect—with yourself and with nature—in a preserved environment.
Highlights
• Route adapted to your physical level • Tasting of local specialties • Relaxing moments by the water • Immersion in authentic villages off the beaten path • A true return to the essentials
Full technical details available upon request.
Price per person: from €280, depending on accommodation type.
©Gilles Piel – Alexandre Compain – Thomas Garcia – CCMontagnes du Giffre
To book or for more information: Contact us
Summer 2025: Mélan Charterhouse – A culinary and cultural experience
Every Thursday from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, from 10/07 to 21/08 Except 24/07 and 14/08
The Mélan Charterhouse in Taninges is one of the finest witnesses to the history of the Montagnes du Giffre. Explore the 13th-century church and the 16th-century cloister, still beautifully preserved. Stroll through an exceptional monumental sculpture park, take your time to pause, and enjoy local Savoyard treats.
Theme: Cultural – local heritage – gastronomy Transport: On foot Location: Taninges – Mélan Charterhouse site Season: April to All Saints’ Day Audience: Suitable for all
Program
Meeting point: Mélan Charterhouse parking
Welcome – presentation of the site and the Montagnes du Giffre
Discover this landmark of the valley – over 700 years of history. Learn about Béatrix de Faucigny and the pastures of Praz de Lys
Walk through the monumental sculpture park Savoyard tasting
What you’ll love
A place full of history, an inspiring site! Cultural immersion in the heart of the church and cloister, the great bench, and Gâteau de Savoie.
Highlights:
Easy route – suitable for all Combines heritage and nature Inspiring surroundings
Prerequisites:
Love for historic architecture Desire to disconnect and unwind
Gourmet break (Gâteau de Savoie, fruit juice, cheese): €20 adults, €10 children under 12 – Duration: 2 hours
©Thomas Garcia / ©Marion Carcel Foehn Photographie – CCMontagnes du Giffre
Adventure along the Giffre River
A Unique Day Discovery of the Giffre Valley
Embark on an unusual full-day exploration of the charming traditional villages and hidden corners of the Giffre Valley, with the Giffre River—originating in the exceptional natural site of the Cirque du Fer à Cheval—guiding your journey.
The route takes you between Mieussy and Morillon-Verchaix, combining cycling and walking, with gourmet breaks featuring local products.
Highlights:
Inspiring experience at your own pace
Discover hidden treasures of the Montagnes du Giffre
Mix of walking and cycling sections
Gourmet tastings of local products
Relaxing moments by the water
Immersion in villages off the beaten track
Theme: Heritage, Nature, Local Products Transport: E-MTB, MTB, hybrid bike or car option Departure Point (Round trip / Loop): Mieussy, Salle des Fêtes Season: March to All Saints’ Day
Program:
Departure from Mieussy, Salle des Fêtes – welcome drink
Discover the Viaduct / History of the Valley and the CEN train
Short walk along the Giffre – Pont du Diable – Gorges du Giffre
Explore the village center on foot and bike to reach the classified site of the church, Maison des Sœurs, Presbytery, and first Mont-Blanc panoramas – traditional habitat, agropastoral life, and introduction to the Mieussy cheese dairy
Depart for Taninges, passing by Arno’s Escargotière – tasting stop
Explore the hamlet of Flérier in Taninges, the first historic village center
Pass by Flérier Lake and start the Au Fil du Giffre Greenway to Taninges
Discover Taninges old town: Middle Ages, Renaissance, Jacquemard trail, “traboules,” waterwheel, Sainte-Anne chapel. Learn the village’s history and its link to Praz de Lys via the Pavés. Visit Saint-Jean Baptiste Church
Chartreuse de Mélan: picnic in the park
Visit the monumental sculpture park and the Chartreuse (depending on opening dates)
Greenway to Morillon with a gourmet break by the Giffre River
Return to Taninges via the right bank of the Giffre / Verchaix – discover the traditional hamlet of Jutteninges Le Grand
Cross Taninges and climb Les Suets d’En Haut for a stop at Vers Château (medicinal & aromatic plants) – herbal tea tasting
Return to Mieussy with cheese tasting and meet the Thônes and Marthod sheep herd above the church, with refreshments, Mont-Blanc views, and end of the day
Price per person: €120 From age: 12+
©Alexandre Compain – Thomas Garcia – Gilles Piel / CCMontagnes du Giffre
For bookings or information: Contact us
FP n°1 Au Fil du Giffre Mieussy à Morillon - Poudre d'escampette.pdf
The Jacquemard Village Tour – Full Day
Explore the village of Taninges in the Giffre Mountains on foot and/or by bike during a full-day cultural adventure.
Travel through the historic town center, charming hamlets, and the Mélan plain to discover hidden gems and remarkable heritage sites.
Highlights:
Architectural richness and beautiful panoramic views
The Chartreuse de Mélan and its monumental sculptures
Gourmet breaks and local tasting experiences
Off-the-beaten-path discoveries and authentic encounters
Extras:
No special fitness required
A perfect mix of cultural heritage and nature
Stunning scenery
Program:
Departure from Flérier Chapel in Taninges – welcome drink
Introduction to the Flérier hamlet and its chapel – the village’s first church
Explore the old town – Château Square and park
Enter the historic town via the arched bridge, walking through preserved streets
Visit the Heritage House to learn about old trades and local crafts – secret tasting included
Saint-Jean Baptiste Church – Neo-classical Sardinian style
Departure for the Chartreuse de Mélan – picnic in the sculpture park, relaxation, and landscape observation
Discover over 700 years of local history – Béatrix de Faucigny and the Praz de Lys alpine pastures
Return to Flérier for a sweet treat. Optional: wood painting workshop and visit to an aromatic and medicinal plant workshop at Vers Château
Price per person: €120 (on foot option: €80 per person) Age: From 12 years
©Thomas Garcia – CCMONTAGNES du Giffre
FP n°5 Le Voyage Jacquemard - Poudre d'Escampette.pdf
For bookings or information: Contact us
The Little Jacquemard village tour & snack – Half Day
Explore the village of Taninges in the Giffre Mountains on foot. This half-day journey takes you through the town center and historic hamlets, uncovering hidden gems and remarkable heritage.
Theme: Cultural – local heritage Transport: On foot Location: Taninges (excluding the Chartreuse) Period: March to All Saints’ Day Audience: All ages
Program:
Meeting at Flérier Chapel – welcome drink
Explore the Flérier hamlet and chapel – the village’s first church
Walk to the old town – Château Square and surrounding park
Enter the historic town via the arched bridge and wander through preserved streets – fountains, chapels, “traboules,” Montée du Char, Jacquemard path, beautiful Renaissance buildings, Arcades street with old doors and signs
Visit the Heritage House – discover traditional trades and local crafts
Saint-Jean Baptiste Church – Sardinian neo-classical style
Return to Flérier for a snack
Highlights:
Architectural richness and beautiful panoramas Wandering through charming streets Tasting local specialties Off-the-beaten-path discoveries
Extras:
Easy walk, suitable for all Combines heritage and nature Stunning scenery
Price per person: €39 adults / €20 children
For bookings or information: Contact us
Le Petit Voyage Jacquemard et Goûter - Poudre d'Escampette.pdf
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Your opinion counts
Lindsay Cambervelle
Thank you, Laurence, for this wonderful discovery of Samoëns, which I will be happy to revisit after this very enriching tour! Thank you for all the shared insights and this immersion into the history of Haute-Savoie.
Virginie L.
Wonderful tour with our guide, Laurence: an e-bike journey discovering the heritage of the Giffre Valley. Everything was perfect—the stops, the explanations, the bikes, the pace (Laurence adapted perfectly to our leisurely rhythm!), the safety, the cheerfulness, the attentiveness… and even the rain spared us! In short: responsible tourism, blending nature and culture; a unique and memorable experience that changes the way you see things. Tourism as we love it and as there should be more of.
Catherine Paquette VASSALLI
Fantastic experience with Poudre d’Escampette! Our guide was amazing: passionate, attentive, and always smiling. Thanks to her, the tour was very enjoyable and enriching. Highly recommended!
Ilhem Laid
We spent two wonderful days with Laurence, a wonderful person and very professional. Thank you!
Anne-Marie Schnellmann
A wonderful e-bike ride on very pleasant trails, without difficulty, with some passages above the Giffre. A great way to discover the Giffre Valley with stunning mountain views. Visited Taninges and Samoëns. Friendly guide with clear explanations and excellent organization
Luis t.
Thank you for this rediscovery of Samoëns, both historical and cultural. You think you know it, but nothing beats a great guide!
Agnès Bertrand
Many thanks to Laurence for this visit. See you again very soon, for sure!