Savoie

Savoie is a department in eastern France, part of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It is named after the historic Savoy region (the Duchy of Savoy) and has Chambéry as its prefecture. The department borders Italy to the east and several other French departments to the north, west and south.

Geography: It lies mostly in the French Alps, with alpine valleys such as Tarentaise and Maurienne. The Mont Blanc massif forms part of its eastern border with Italy. The department includes parts of Lac du Bourget and Lake Annecy. The climate ranges from alpine in high elevations to temperate in the valley floors.

History: Savoie corresponds to part of the borders of the former Duchy and later Kingdom of Savoy. It was annexed by France in 1860 under the Treaty of Turin and organized as a department of France. Its identity reflects a blend of Savoyard and French influences.

Economy and culture: The economy benefits from tourism—skiing and summer hiking are prominent—plus agriculture and small industry. The area is known for Savoy cheeses such as Beaufort and Tomme de Savoie, and for wines such as Roussette de Savoie. Cultural heritage includes Chambéry’s Château des Ducs de Savoie and traditional Savoyard architecture.

Nature and administration: The department encompasses parts of the Vanoise National Park and major ski areas, including portions of Paradiski and the Three Valleys. It is divided into three arrondissements: Chambéry, Albertville and Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, with Chambéry as the administrative center.