ABONDANCE

The origins of Abondance

Abondance is a mountain village in the Haute-Savoie department of the Rhône-Alpes region. This pretty commune in eastern France sits at an altitude ranging from 950 metres to 1730 metres. The town's name is thought to come from a Burgundian term (derived from the Germanic people), which translates as "summer house" or "mountain pasture". Abondance subsequently gave its name to the famous Abondance cheese - a raw cow's milk cheese made in Haute-Savoie - as well as to a breed of cattle. The inhabitants of this mountain village are also known as Abondanciers. It was in the 20th century that the village of Abondance enjoyed a certain success and saw its visitor numbers increase. This was thanks to the beauty of the scenery and the climate, which allowed visitors to rediscover the mountain scenery, embracing its natural beauty in both summer and winter. Socialites were also attracted by the comfortable guesthouses in the heart of Abondance - particularly the Hôtel des Alpes. The village of Abondance, at times snowy and at other times verdant, rapidly evolved and even became a forerunner of its time. In 1930, a ski club was set up for holidaymakers visiting the region. This same club also maintained the reputation of its activities, by programming written publications revolving around local tourism. Finally, in 1964, a cable car was built in this future ski resort. Today, the town of Abondance still bears its colourful coat of arms, yellow, red and green, featuring the Virgin and Child and a cornucopia supported by a mountain cut into three sections.

Must-sees in Abondance

Are you coming to the resort-village of Abondance? Live through the seasons in this small town in the Haute-Savoie department. If you're a winter sports enthusiast, you can make the most of the Abondance ski area in winter. The resort is ideal for family holidays, with ski slopes available for all abilities. Teach your children to be skiing pros at the Ludoffaz snow front, dedicated to teaching beginners how to ski and toboggan. You can also enjoy snowshoe trekking, a natural ice rink or a dog-sleigh ride. There are also several ski lifts in the Abondance area - Petit Covagny, Petit Fremoux, Grand Fremoux, Le Lac, La Corne, Les Follys and Brion. If you come in summer, you'll be able to enjoy the lush green landscape of the village and surrounding area. To make the most of this experience, there are numerous hiking trails available. Coming to Abondance also means discovering two of the village's must-see attractions. The Maison du Fromage d'Abondance takes you on an epic journey of taste and smell, tracing the history of this cheese and how it is made. There's also a tasting session for beginners and experts alike. Savour this delicacy made from Abondance cow's milk. A range of tours, activities and official events are planned at the Maison du fromage d'Abondance. After the cultural heritage, take time to discover the historical heritage of the village - in particular the Abbey of Notre-Dame de l'Assomption. This abbey was built at the end of the 13th century, and its trompe-l'œil decoration is a delight for young and old alike. Let yourself be transported to another time in this exceptional monument rich in history. Discover not only the church but also its cloister. In part of the former monastery, take a step back in time with the exhibition "From history to art: sacred heritage in the Vallée d'Abondance".

Living in Abondance

If you enjoy exceptional natural scenery, discover the village of Abondance. In the heart of Haute-Savoie in the Rhône-Alpes region, Abondance offers you its mountain scenery, sometimes snow-covered and sometimes lush green. This ski resort lies to the east on the map of France. Enjoy the charm of a village resort that combines tradition and modernity, with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Just a few kilometres from this village-resort at the entrance to the Portes du Soleil ski area, you'll discover Lake Geneva. Whether you're planning to live here as your main residence or as a second home, let yourself be seduced by the natural charm of this pretty Haute-Savoie village. In Abondance, you'll find everything you need for everyday life: a collège, a lycée, restaurants and a supermarket. The Evian-les-Bains train station is just 25 km from Abondance. Tourism is well developed in this département, so there are plenty of activities on offer. Skiing, tobogganing, snowshoe trekking or traditional hiking - enjoy unique moments in a breathtaking mountain landscape. And after all these activities, take the time to recharge your batteries in your chalet, house or flat. Living in Abondance means taking advantage of the peace and quiet of the mountains, the variety of scenery and the many activities available to occupy your days or relax on holiday. BARNES Portes du Soleil offers you the best accommodation for sale (chalet, house or flat) to make the most of your stay - whether short for a holiday or long to live in - in this region of France. Take a look at some photos of the Abondance area, a place frozen in time, and plan your visits to the abbey and the cheese house. The locals will tell you all about the good life in this charming commune of the Rhône-Alpes department, located at the entrance to the Portes du Soleil. The slopes are waiting for you.