Megève

Ski to lunch, stay for après, & repeat

Mar 26, 2026

As ski season starts to wind down, consider this your chic little guide to planning next year’s trip to Megève, France - a place I’ve been lucky enough to visit over the years.

Megève has that rare, storybook charm that somehow still feels under the radar. Originally developed in the 1920s as France’s alternative to St. Moritz, it’s equal parts old world alpine glamour and cozy, family-run charm. Think cobblestone streets, horse drawn carriages, and just the right amount of après.

My connection here makes it even more special as my aunt, uncle, and cousins live in Geneva and have a ski chalet in Megève, so I’ve made a few trips throughout the winter months (December through March). It’s become one of my favorite ski destinations.

This past Christmas, Garret and I made the trip out (his first time) and it fully lived up to the hype. While it recently made an appearance on Emily in Paris, Megève has long been a favorite for those in the know. It’s the kind of place where you get the first lift for a morning of runs, long lunches turn into sunset apéritifs and no one is in a rush to do anything except enjoy it.

How to Get There

By Plane - The easiest way to get to Megève is by flying into Geneva, which is about an hour away by car (give or take depending on traffic and snow conditions). From the airport, you can rent a car, arrange a private transfer, or book a shared shuttle - most hotels can help coordinate this seamlessly.
By Train - If you prefer not to drive, the train is also a great option. From Geneva, you can take a regional train to Sallanches-Combloux-Megeve station. The ride takes just over an hour, and from there it’s about a 20 minute taxi or hotel transfer up to the village.

Where to Stay

If you’re not renting a chalet (highly recommend the chalet route if you’re going with a group), there are so many incredible hotels that still give you that cozy alpine feel:

Hôtel Saint-Georges - Right in the center of town, super charming and walkable to everything. This boutique hotel feels like stepping into a Wes Anderson set.
Four Seasons Hotel Megève - For a more full service, luxe experience. It’s a bit outside the main village but has everything you could want (spa, ski concierge, multiple restaurants). There were rumors it might be featured in season 4 of White Lotus, but filming has since been confirmed for the French Riviera instead.
Les Cimes - A hidden gem if you want something more intimate. It feels like staying in someone’s chalet, and the lobby bar runs on an honor system (you just jot down what you take), which somehow makes it even more charming.

What to Do

Ski - Megève offers world class skiing across the French Alps, with multiple areas of the mountain to explore depending on your level and how ambitious you’re feeling that day. Megève was recently added to the Ikon Pass, which makes it even easier to plan a trip if you already ski in the U.S. However, the lift tickets are much more affordable here than the US (a daily lift ticket was 48 euros!). You can also purchase pedestrian passes if skiing isn’t your thing (or if you just want to prioritize lunch which, tbh I support). If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try ski paragliding off the mountain with a guide, equal parts terrifying but unforgettable experience.
Pro tip: If you need rentals, go through Ski Concept. They are reasonably priced and have overnight lockers, which means you can leave your boots and skis there instead of carrying everything back and forth (a game changer especially after après).
Winter Sports (Beyond Skiing) - If you’re not skiing every day, there’s still plenty to do. Snowshoeing is a favorite - you can hike up the mountain at your own pace and reward yourself with a long, leisurely lunch at the top.
There’s also snowmobiling, dog sledding, and ice skating in the village. And if you visit outside of peak winter, Megève completely transforms with tons of trails to hike and mountain bike.
La Luge 4S - Not going to lie, I was very nervous the first time I did this but it ended up being one of the most fun experiences. It’s essentially a mountain coaster where you control your own speed, so you can go as fast (or slow) as you want. You can ride solo or double and it’s one of those activities that feels equally fun for kids and adults.
Shopping - The village of Megève is as charming as it gets with cobblestone streets, horsedrawn carriages, and during the holidays, the most over the top Christmas tree (made up of dozens of smaller trees combined). You’ll find everything from Hermès, Moncler, and Dior to smaller, beautifully curated boutiques. A few favorites I always stop into:
- Big Boss - I’ve somehow made it a tradition to leave with a new pair of Moon Boots every trip.
- Kujten - The best cashmere bandana scarves (and much cheaper to buy here than in the US, just saying).
- Jimmy Fairly - Chic, affordable French sunglasses. I love my Halo sunglasses.
- Aallard - Credited with inventing the original ski pant - very cool heritage brand and window shopping is unmatched!
- Scarlett - A dreamy book and home store I genuinely wanted to move into.
- Pure Altitude Megève - Great for skincare (plant based products made locally!) and elevated alpine beauty finds (plus amazing selection of Call It By Your Name totes and pouches).
- French Pharmacies - honestly one of my most frequented stops in town. French pharmacies are in a league of their own. The pharmacists are incredibly knowledgeable and will help you find exactly what you need. Forgot your facewash? A quick analysis of your skin and you’re on your way with La Roche-Posay facewash plus an Embryolisse moisturizer and mask. Swollen ankles after a long ski day or caught the norovirus? They’ve got your back. It’s equal parts skincare heaven and lowkey lifesaver.
Friday Market - If you’re in town on a Friday, don’t miss the weekly market! Vendors bring in fresh seafood from the south of France and you’ll find endless stands piled high with olives, cheeses, and dried meats (literally say less). There are also stalls with the chicest winter accessories like fur hats, gloves, and coats. I’m guilty of buying a fur headband on sight. It’s the perfect place to wander, snack, and pick up something you didn’t plan on buying but absolutely need.

Where to Eat & Drink

On the Mountain & Après

La Folie Douce - Hands down one of my favorite places. The live performances (Will Diamond is iconic IYKYK), the music, and the energy is unmatched. Just remember: you do have to ski down after so plan to leave a few songs before closing. You won’t want to, but your future self will thank you when you avoid the chaos and yardsales on the slopes. (Beli rating: 10)
La Fruitière - Right next door. Come for a long lunch with insane views, then head straight into Folie Douce to dance it off. (Beli rating: 8.4)
La Petite Fontaine - Casual, delicious paninis and the best lounge chairs to soak up the sun. (Beli rating: 8.7)
Chalet Lupo - located at the top of the Petite Fountaine chairlift. The views and setup are incredible. The food made this one of my favorites of the trip! (Beli rating: 9.6)
L’Alpette - A place where you could easily spend the entire afternoon. Go for the French onion soup and steak tartare. You can also snowshoe here, which makes it feel extra earned. (Beli rating: 9.3)
Le Super Megève - Home of a great burger and is also accessible via pedestrian pass, so is a great spot for skiers and non-skiers to meet. (Beli rating: 8.6)
Chalet Sauvage - Took over my family’s longtime favorite (Les Mandarines RIP), but it’s supposed to be a really fun scene with live music and entertainment. On my list for next time!

In Town Dinner & Dancing

Le Refuge - For a classic fondue night. Expect a bit of a trek uphill but that justifies the meal. Bonus points if you bring a sled to get down after. (Beli rating: 9.2)
Chacha Megève - Asian fusion with a party atmosphere. Book the later seating -the music gets louder, the energy picks up, and it usually turns into a full night out. (Beli rating: 8.9)
La Ferme Saint-Amour - Dinner that turns into a full performance. Staff break into song while everyone else dances on tables. It’s a dinner to remember (Beli rating: 8.9)
La Sauvageonne - Another dinner to dance situation. Great food, fun crowd, and expect costumes & more table dancing. (Beli rating: 8.7)
Le Bistrot de Megève - Perfect for a vin chaud in town when you want something low key and cozy. (Beli rating: 8.4)
Amore Hibou - Fun après in town with a DJ and ice skating nearby. (Beli rating: 7.9)
Les 5 Rues - Really fun jazz bar with live music and a very good mojito. (Beli rating: 9.2)
Le S Bar Megève - Fun cocktails and a DJ booth made out of Moon Boots (iconic). (Beli rating: 8.2)
Le Rooftop Bar - Go to the top of the Grand Hotel Soleil for a drink with a view. On my list for next time!

Casual/Quick Bites

La Petite Crêperie - Tiny, no frills, and so good. Just don’t go if you’re in a rush. (Beli rating: 8.3)
O’Dahu - The closest thing to the beloved OK Burger (RIP). Casual and easy. (Beli rating: 8.5)
Du Sel au Sucre - Perfect post-ski panini stop in town when you just need something quick and satisfying. (Beli rating: 7.8)
McDonald’s - believe it or not, but there’s a McDonald’s in Megeve. I really wanted to try the McFondue and/or the McRaclette so I guess I’ll have to go back :)