A spa town that welcomed Queen Victoria on no less than three occasions. And each time she was amused. The hot springs and baths still provide hydrotherapeutic treatments. With its attractive streets, lakeside walks and opportunity to ‘take the waters’, you won’t need to go to the gym for a month.

This fine town enjoys one of the most picturesque vistas in the region with three superb lakeside beaches, cruises, plus particularly good shopping in town. The summer festivals are a must-see. In June, Annecy hosts the international film festival. And the Fête du Lac, in early August, sees the lake is illuminated with an enormous firework display.

The ancient seat of the Dukes of Savoy, Chambéry feels more Italian than French. The old town is dominated by the castle of the Dukes, while the ancient streets and imposing buildings make for fascinating exploring. Big on culture, Chambéry has five museums and one of the biggest clock chimes in Europe.

A short drive from Chambéry (but then a climb!), the spectacular location of the Chapelle du Mont-St-Michel provides wonderful views across the Chambéry Valley and the pointy bits of the distant Belledonne mountains.