What makes the Savoie department in France so special? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast , titled Best of the Savoie Department: Courchevel, Chambéry, Albertville, etc. , host Annie Sargent and co-host Elyse Rivin dive deep into the highlights of this beloved Alpine region. Get the podcast ad-free Savoie is famous for its majestic mountain views, ski resorts, and rich regional culture. Annie and Elyse talk about iconic destinations like Courchevel, a world-class ski resort that draws visitors from around the globe, and Chambéry, the historic capital of Savoie known for its charming old town and Italian-influenced architecture. They also cover Albertville, host of the 1992 Winter Olympics, and nearby attractions that are worth a visit even if you're not into winter sports. Beyond the ski slopes, the episode explores the region's food culture—think tartiflette, fondue, raclette, and delicious local wines. They talk about summer activities too: hiking, mountain biking, lake swimming, and exploring picturesque villages. Whether you're planning a ski trip, a summer vacation in the Alps, or just curious about French mountain culture, this episode gives you all the inspiration and practical tips you need. Annie and Elyse share personal stories, travel advice, and a genuine love for the region. Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast and never miss an episode full of French travel tips, cultural insight, and destination inspiration. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Introduction and Greetings — [00:00:31] Today on the podcast — [00:01:07] Podcast supporters — [00:01:40] The Magazine segment — [00:02:07] Annie and Elyse about History of Savoie and Haute-Savoie — [00:03:00] Geography and Key Locations — [00:04:42] Skiing in Savoie: Resorts and Activities — [00:06:11] Recent Events and News — [00:07:58] Upcoming 2030 Winter Olympics — [00:10:45] Travel Tips and Transportation — [00:11:49] Winter Tires for the car in the mountain area in winter months — [00:14:16] Local Culture and Traditions — [00:15:13] French Tradition of Social Security Health Care — [00:17:41] Distances from the Savoie Department to Various Locations in France — [00:20:21] National Parks and Summertime Activities — [00:22:53] Find Experiences in the Area on Komoot — [00:26:14] Charming Villages and Scenic Beauty — [00:28:05] The Tradition of the Transhumance — [00:29:14] Culinary Delights: Cheeses and More — [00:36:50] Conclusion and Recommendations — [00:37:41] Thank you, Patrons — [00:38:25] Tours Reviews — [00:38:40] Discount for Podcast Listeners — [00:40:54] Train and Road Work During Summer — [00:44:13] SNCF strikes — [00:45:16] Place de la République — [00:48:44] Next week on the podcast — [00:49:15] Copyright — More episodes about the French Alps
