Peisey-Vallandry is a traditional picturesque Savoyard village with its roots in agriculture and mining. Lead and silver mining was carried out in the area until as late as the 1960’s. Some of the old mines are still open to visitors.
Agriculture remains an important part of life in the mountains in the summer, and Peisey-Vallandry is home to one of the finest cheeses produced in France. Beaufort cheese can be brought directly from the farm shop in the village and the Beaufort Cheese Discovery brings people together for tasting sessions, guided tours and more.
The area is renowned for its Baroque churches and Peisey-Vallandry enjoys its own beautiful church in the village and the well known Notre Dame de Vernette is just an hour’s walk from the chalets.
A free local bus connects the various villages of Peisey, Nancroix, Vallandry and Plan-Peisey.
Bourg St. Maurice
Bourg St. Maurice is the main town in the area and is situated in the valley. The town has a pedestrian area with many shops and a large supermarket. The town hosts a number of cultural events during the summer and also has a large open air swimming pool, tennis courts and a championship canoeing centre.
The TGV express train comes into Bourg directly from Paris, London and Brussels.
Annecy
Annecy is one of the most beautiful towns in France. Situated on shores of the Lac Thiou, “modern” Annecy was formed in the 13th century although the original settlements go back as far as 3100 BC. The old town is beautifully preserved with old cobbled streets and the lake as the centre for water activities. The fresh, clear water runs down from the mountains and a delight to swim in. Boat tours around the lake are popular in the summer so choose your time to visit with care!
Annecy is one of the cultural centres of the Savoie and hosts the famous Music festival in August, culminating in the music and firework display on the lake on August 8th 2009. This is well worth a visit.
