You simply cannot leave the Annecy Mountains without trying the inimitable Reblochon! Thônes Heart of the Valleys has a reputation, both locally and across France, for its famous PDO cheese, Reblochon de Savoie, produced by the region’s farmers. You can see how this ancestral cheese is made by visiting the dairies, on the mountain pastures in summer or down on the plain in winter, or the Reblochon cooperative dairy.
Thônes Heart of the Valleys is a central location surrounded by a wealth of natural heritage. At the starting point of a number of hiking routes, the region benefits from a varied network of trails to suit all levels and preferences. Between the GR96 long-distance itinerary, the Tournette-Aravis GRP trail, the Natura 2000 site and other protected areas, you’ll be able to reach iconic summits such as the Tournette or the Sulens, as well as the Beauregard Plateau. The magnificent Mont Charvin in the Aravis mountains, the highest summit in the Thônes Heart of the Valleys region, takes you to the heights, elevating you to 2,409 metres above sea level!
Thônes Heart of the Valleys is a great winter destination too, with snowshoeing, ice climbing, cross-country skiing and ski touring.
The Wood & Forestry Ecomuseum, the Apple & Biscantin Centre, the Resistance & Deportation Museum, the Glières Plateau, the Thônes Museum & Models Exhibition, the Tower Manor, and religious heritage in the form of churches, chapels and oratories… all bear witness to this region’s rich and diverse culture.
The central geographical location of Thônes Heart of the Valleys links 3 valleys that complement one another, those of the Fier Plain, the Bornes-Aravis mountain range, and the Sulens Valley. Go exploring all the secret nooks and crannies of this unique region, between 7 typical villages where you’ll take the time to simply enjoy life. Whatever the season, take a stroll, go shopping, and unwind in the bars and restaurants of Thônes.
