Top 8 most beautiful villages in Savoie

5 min readPublished on 9 October 2026

In short

Eight authentic villages are worth the trip from our campsite: from Peisey-Nancroix to Bonneval-sur-Arc, with traditional chalets, baroque chapels and pastures in Beaufort, each shows a different face of rural Savoie, at various distances from the Tarentaise to the Maurienne.

Key takeaways

  • Peisey-Nancroix, 8 km from the campsite.
  • Hauteville-Gondon, 8 km from the campsite.
  • Villaroger, 16 km from the campsite.
  • Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise, 19 km from the campsite.
  • La Rosière (Montvalezan), 26 km from the campsite.
  • Val d’Isère (old village), 39 km from the campsite.
  • Arêches-Beaufort, 51 km from the campsite.
  • Bonneval-sur-Arc, 67 km from the campsite.

In the heart of Savoie, the Tarentaise valley is full of authentic villages where history, nature and culture blend harmoniously. Between traditional chalets, old lanes and lovely Alpine panoramas, these villages offer a unique immersion in Savoie's heritage.

Whether you love hiking, local food or simply exceptional landscapes, discover our selection of the 8 most beautiful villages in Savoie to visit, all close to our campsite in Savoie.

Peisey-Nancroix

Peisey-Nancroix is a charming Savoie village in the heart of the Tarentaise valley, offering a perfect mix of authenticity and unspoilt nature. Right next to the Vanoise National Park, the village is an ideal gateway to magnificent hikes and Alpine landscapes. Its traditional architecture in stone and wood, along with its typical chapels, adds to its rustic charm.

Not to be missed in Peisey-Nancroix:

  • The Notre-Dame des Vernettes sanctuary: a historic site perched at 1,800 metres, reached by a path with an exceptional panoramic view.
  • The Trinity church: famous for its bell tower, the tallest in the Tarentaise, and its Italian organ listed as a historic monument.
  • The Rosuel refuge: the starting point for many hikes to the surrounding lakes and passes, ideal for nature lovers.

8 kilometres from our campsite.

Hauteville-Gondon

Hauteville-Gondon is a typical Savoie village known for its rustic charm and peaceful atmosphere. In the heart of the Tarentaise, it appeals with its old lanes, its baroque church and its landscapes offering lovely views of the valley. It is a perfect place to discover the authentic life of Savoie's mountain villages.

Not to be missed in Hauteville-Gondon:

  • The baroque Saint-Pierre church: a well-known monument with its architecture and frescoes.
  • The panoramic walks: enjoy the paths overlooking the valley for restorative strolls.
  • The local markets: discover Savoie produce and traditional crafts.

8 kilometres from our campsite.

Villaroger

Villaroger is a charming village that ranks among the most beautiful villages in Savoie, in the Tarentaise valley. This haven of peace appeals with its unspoilt natural setting and traditional Savoie architecture. At the foot of the Aiguille Rouge, it offers privileged access to hikes in summer and ski slopes in winter, perfect for mountain lovers.

Not to be missed in Villaroger:

  • The trails towards the Aiguille Rouge: discover magnificent views of the Alpine peaks.
  • The local cheese dairies: savour Savoie specialities, including the famous Beaufort.
  • The religious heritage: typical chapels and oratories, witnesses to local history.

16 kilometres from our campsite.

Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise

Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise is a real treasure among the most beautiful villages in Savoie. This peaceful village combines rural charm and exceptional Alpine landscapes. Spared from mass tourism, it offers an authentic experience with its traditional chalets, old chapels and varied hiking trails, perfect for discovering the surrounding nature.

Not to be missed in Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise:

  • The chapels and religious heritage: a rich cultural legacy with several beautiful buildings.
  • The panoramic hikes: many trails from easy to difficult, some with lovely views of Mont Blanc.
  • Savoie specialities: taste local cheeses and dishes in the village's family restaurants.

19 kilometres from our campsite.

La Rosière (Montvalezan)

Montvalezan, with its resort of La Rosière, is recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in Savoie, combining Savoie authenticity with Italian influences. On the French-Italian border, the village enjoys exceptional sunshine and offers direct access to the vast Little St Bernard ski area. Its warm atmosphere and typical architecture make it a popular destination all year round.

Not to be missed in La Rosière:

  • The Franco-Italian ski area: enjoy varied slopes between France and Italy for unique sensations.
  • The local architecture: chalets and buildings blending Savoie and Italian styles.
  • The views of the Alps: admire lovely views of the surrounding massifs, especially from the pass.

26 kilometres from our campsite.

Val d’Isère (old village)

The old village of Val d’Isère, one of the most beautiful villages in Savoie, combines historic charm and mountain energy. Before becoming an internationally renowned resort, Val d’Isère was an authentic Savoie village whose cobbled lanes and traditional buildings have been carefully preserved. It is the ideal place to discover the soul of the Tarentaise away from the tourist bustle.

Not to be missed in Val d’Isère (old village):

  • The historic lanes: stroll among old stone and wooden houses with undeniable charm.
  • The baroque Saint-Bernard church: an architectural treasure not to be missed.
  • The traditional restaurants: savour local cuisine in an authentic atmosphere.

39 kilometres from our campsite.

Arêches-Beaufort

Arêches-Beaufort, one of the most beautiful villages in Savoie, is known for its mountain charm and its central role in producing the famous Beaufort cheese. In the Beaufortain massif, the village offers an idyllic setting with its typical wooden chalets and vast pastures. Whether for hiking in summer or ski touring in winter, Arêches-Beaufort appeals with its authenticity and vitality.

Not to be missed in Arêches-Beaufort:

  • A visit to the pastures and cheese dairies: discover how Beaufort, a treasure of Savoie cuisine, is made.
  • The hiking trails: discover varied landscapes between forests, mountains and pastures.
  • Ski touring: a must-visit spot for mountain enthusiasts in winter.

51 kilometres from our campsite.

Bonneval-sur-Arc

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Savoie, Bonneval-sur-Arc is a real Alpine treasure at the far end of the Maurienne valley. Listed as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France”, it charms with its cobbled lanes, its stone houses with slate-slab roofs and its authentic high-mountain atmosphere. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, it is the ideal starting point to discover the wild nature of the Vanoise National Park.

Not to be missed in Bonneval-sur-Arc:

  • Walks through the historic village: admire the traditional architecture and picturesque lanes.
  • Hikes into the Vanoise National Park: discover unspoilt nature and exceptional views.
  • A visit to the mountain pasture chalets: enjoy tastings of local produce in an authentic setting.

67 kilometres from our campsite.

SébastienSébastien’s tip

If you only have one day, choose Peisey-Nancroix and Hauteville-Gondon: just 8 km from the campsite, you can visit both villages without spending your time on the road.

Sébastien

Written by Sébastien - Owner of the Eden de la Vanoise campsite

since 1987Tarentaise, Vanoise, motorcycling

See all articles by Sébastien →