In Roman times, the people who lived on the Massif made good use of its natural treasures and the abundance and diversity of its animal and plant life. Throughout history, Man has developed the area as an agricultural and pastoral economy, adapting to climate and altitude, creating meadows, building chalets for alpine pastures, sheepfolds, etc.

He has also adapted to successive forms of government; it was not until 1860 that the region became part of France following the Treaty of Turin. Prior to this, the Massif des Aravis had been savoyard.

Today, the ancestral skills of its inhabitants continue and develop: for example, many dozens of tonnes of Reblochon cheese are produced in the Aravis every year.
Tourism began slowly in the early 20th Century; holidaymakers were initially only attracted by summer and greenery, but winter tourism then took off.

The region is very dynamic and hosts major events every year, such as:

The “Candide Invitational”:
Europe’s top riders join Candide Thovex at La Clusaz in March.

“Défi Foly”:
Every April, a group of brave hearts set off on skis, monoskis, surfboards and even bath-tubs and car bonnets down a snow-covered slope leading to the icy waters of the Lac des Confins.

“Le Bonheur des Mômes”:
In August in Le Grand Bornand, a week of theatre, exhibitions, activities and workshops, with a hundred companies that use their talent to excite, amuse and fascinate children and their parents!

Once you’ve tasted the charms of the Massif des Aravis, will you be able to say goodbye, or “arvi” in the Savoyard dialect? We doubt it!