In the authentic center of Megève, superb horses irremediably attract the eye. Towing one of the emblematic carriages of the village, the horse is the pride of the inhabitants. These beautiful frames are unlike any other. They have specific characteristics that enthusiasts strive to perpetuate.
The horse & Megève, a story of passion
The horse is undeniably part of the Megève decor. In the heart of the village, the splendid equines are everywhere with the beautiful carriages strolling on the cobblestones. They are also admired in the mountain pastures, or in the equestrian centers of the region. Horses are also in the spotlight during major summer events. THE International Jumping CSI*** Edmond de Rothschild or the Horse Festival, make the hearts of residents and visitors beat faster. This festival allows you to dive into a decor of yesteryear. Parade, carriages and equestrian show create an extraordinary atmosphere.
The day before, another unmissable event, the foal competition, organized for ages in Megève. The beautiful Comtoises, the splendid Franche-Montagnes stallions and the horses of Megève are scrutinized by a French and Swiss jury under the eye of a large audience. Crossbreeding of the two aforementioned species, the local production of horses is maintained thanks to the involvement of enthusiasts. “We want to perpetuate the heritage of our ancestors who owned small Comtoise mares,” explains the Haut-Faucigny Horse and Mule Union.
We wish to perpetuate the heritage of our ancestors.
The history and attachment of the people of Megève to their faithful mounts are such that this syndicate was among the first created in Rhône-Alpes, in 1913. Horses have always been the kings of field activities. Already used for transport, they served as the first ski lifts by towing the first skiers. They were really the cars and tractors of the time! Comtois mares, which adapted well to the needs of the inhabitants of Megève, were acclaimed. They produced mules and mules which were used for the pack and were sold to the army. Foals were also bred to renew their herd. Megève quickly became a place known to horse lovers.
Over the years and the rise of mechanization, these typical horses are used less and less. In 1995, passionate Megèves wanted to rediscover the characteristics of the horse of their ancestors: lighter and between 1,50 and 1,60 m tall. Versatile horses, cold and endowed with an excellent mind, which allow them to be used in the hitch as in the saddle. In connection with the National Studs of Annecy, a crossbreeding of Comtois horses and the Swiss Franches-Montagnes breed is developing.
Labeling is a long-awaited time. If this project does not succeed, the heritage of the elders and their horses remains very much alive in Megève. The Horse and Mule Union has a stallion in the Franches-Montagnes, a second is arriving this summer. Breeders from all over the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region come every year to have their mares bred by the Megève stallion. Irrefutable proof that the excellent reputation and the undeniable qualities of the Megève horse have survived the ages and are perpetuated.
Let yourself be tempted by a multitude of activities
Surrounded by grandiose panoramas inviting you to venture out, Megève varies the pleasures of the mountains by offering you experiences that are as unique as they are unusual. Astride a mountain bike, perched high in the trees, harnessed to a sled dog or equipped with a fishing rod, put on your shoes and set off to discover the incredible playground of Megève! So, ready for the big adventure?
