Ideas for activities for the May bank holidays

The long weekends in May offer the perfect opportunity to get away from it all and discover the natural and cultural wonders of the Léman Mountains Explore region. From hiking and water sports to culinary delights and local events, here are a few suggestions for making the most of spring in Haute-Savoie.

1. Walks and breathtaking views

The mild temperatures and lush green landscapes of spring make this the ideal time to go hiking. Here are a few routes you won’t want to miss:

The Col and Lake d’Arvouin: a hike accessible from La Chapelle-d’Abondance, offering spectacular views of the Chablais mountains and the chance to spot herds of Abondance cows in their mountain pastures.

Les Mémises: accessible from Thollon-les-Mémises, these ridges offer splendid views and make for a perfect family outing.

The banks of the Dranse: a gentler route, perfect for a walk or a cycle along the river.

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2. Water sports on Lake Geneva

With the return of fine weather, Lake Geneva becomes a fantastic playground for water sports enthusiasts:

Stand-up paddleboarding in Publier: relax as you glide across the water whilst admiring the mountains.

Kayaking and sailing: several water sports centres offer equipment hire so you can explore at your own pace.

Freshwater diving: explore the depths of the lake and its underwater wildlife.

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3. Cultural and culinary discoveries

The region is brimming with cultural and gastronomic treasures:

A visit to Abondance Abbey: a journey back in time to the heart of a medieval site steeped in history.

Local cheese tasting: don’t miss the chance to sample the famous Abondance cheese straight from the producers.

Explore the Savoyard villages: discover local traditions through the markets and spring festivals.

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4. Family activities: thrills and adventure

The long weekends in May are also the perfect opportunity for some fun and different activities with the children:

Pony rides: rides suitable for very young children, offering them the chance to enjoy the great outdoors.

Tree-top adventure courses: thrills guaranteed with high-altitude courses suitable for all ages.

Outdoor escape games: a fun and immersive experience set against a backdrop of stunning natural scenery.

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5. Attend local events

Throughout May, the region hosts a wide range of cultural and festive events. To view the full calendar of events (markets, festivals, sporting competitions, etc.).

Not to be missed: the Escale Gourmande in Neuvecelle, a spring event celebrating local produce from the Chablais region. This festive weekend brings together producers, artisans and chefs from both the Savoie regions and Switzerland, featuring cookery demonstrations and a gourmet market.

Guest of honour in 2025: chef Marc Veyrat, ambassador for mountain gastronomy.

Events Calendar

Whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill-seeker or simply looking to relax, Léman Mountains Explore offers a wealth of opportunities for an unforgettable break over the May bank holidays.