Megève is a well known ski resort in the French Alps, about 34 kilometers (22 miles) from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc (map). Don't be fooled by the short distance, however; over mountain roads it will take at least 40 minutes.

Megève was developed in the early 20th century to be a posh resort in a beautiful setting. Although experts might consider the skiing less challenging than at some other parts of the Alps, there are nonetheless many opportunities for skiing, including a télécabine (gondola) right in the center of town.

The charming downtown is centered around the church and the Mairie, or town hall. It is largely a pedestrian zone, with shops and restaurants.

In fact, if you like shopping, Megève is the place for you. Hermès is nestled up right next to the church, while shops like Blu & Berry carry the likes of Gucci, Valentino, and Ralph Lauren, and Zilli provides menswear. Jewelry stores, antique shops, and galleries round out the offerings.

You can stroll and look in windows, admire the stream that runs through town, and see the lovely Office du Tourisme, bedecked with flowers in season.

Be sure to stop in at the Church St-Jean-Baptiste, established by the Benedictines in the 11th century. Although the building has been modified over the centuries, it retains its historic character and is topped with an "onion dome" characteristic of Savoyard churches.

	Church tower and shops, Megève.

The Megève Museum (free, with limited opening hours) presents exhibits on the history of skiing and winter sports in the area.

Megève is about 40 minutes from Albertville, site of the 1992 Olympics, and about an hour and a half from the ski resort of Courchevel.

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Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Albertville The French Alps