For many of us, our four-legged friends are an equal part of the family. Therefore, it’s important to plan a pet-friendly holiday where they don’t miss out on all of the fun.
The Alps are the perfect playground for dogs. With vast open spaces, forests, lakes and rivers – there’s no end of exciting walks to be had. But, if you’re not familiar with mountain holidays, you may wonder “can I bring my dog to a restaurant in the Alps?” In short, the Alps are extremely welcoming of dogs, so you don’t have to look far to find dog-friendly restaurants and cafés nearby.
In this post, we highlight:
- The top dog-friendly cafés and restaurants in the Alps
- What to expect when bringing your dog to a ski resort
- Recommendations of places to stay
Dog-friendly ski resorts
On the whole, the French Alps are extremely accommodating towards dogs. In the majority of places, you’ll be able to walk your dog on a lead through the resort and there are numerous dog-friendly walks to enjoy as well.
For the most part, dogs are also welcome on public transport, as long as they behave calmly and don’t sit on the seats. And in some resorts, you may even be allowed to take your dog on some of the chairlifts at certain times, so you can take them for off-piste walks.
However, do note that dogs are not permitted on the pistes themselves and should be well-trained before being taken on a chairlift. Skiing with your dog running next to you may sound like the dream – but could result in serious injury for both of you.
Here are some other places your dog may not be able to accompany you:
- National parks and nature reserves,
- Some hotels, mountain refuges, hostels and B&Bs,
- Supermarkets and some boutiques,
- Cinemas, hairdressers and medical surgeries,
- Certain restaurants, cafés and bars which have a strict no-dog policy.
As you can see, the list is very similar to that of any town or village that is based outside the Alps.
Find dog-friendly accommodation in the Alps
Dog-friendly restaurants and cafés in the Alps
Restaurants, cafés and bars will have their own policy when it comes to dogs. The majority are dog-friendly, with many providing water bowls. Some may restrict you to the bar, have specific areas where dogs are not permitted or specify that only small breeds are allowed.
When making a restaurant reservation, we’d recommend calling in advance and asking about their pet policy. The likelihood is most places will be more than happy to accommodate your dog, as long as they’re aware in advance. And as a nation of dog lovers – most of the staff will provide five-star service to your pet too!
The top dog-friendly restaurants and cafés by ski area…
The Portes du Soleil
Hideout Hostel, Morzine
If you fancy straying from the traditional Savoyard specialities, then we’d highly recommend an evening at Hideout Hostel in Morzine.
Serving Asian street food-inspired dishes, this is easily some of the best food in Morzine.
Best of all – the team are big dog lovers and will happily provide water for them when required.
La Rotonde, Morzine
Our team has enjoyed a number of fantastic meals at La Rotonde in Morzine. Embracing local ingredients and seasonal produce, this is a great option if you want to enjoy a more high-end dining experience without leaving your pet at home!
Pet friendly chalets in the Portes du Soleil
The Aravis
La Cordée, La Clusaz
La Cordée offers casual dining in a laid-back setting where dogs are welcome. Burgers, salads and regional favourites all feature on the menu with an average price of 15-16 € per dish.
Lo Garâjo, Manigod
This contemporary concept café is another team favourite, located in a building that was once the garage of Manigod.
Serving drinks and snacks, as well as stocking beautiful handmade gifts and wine, it’s a must-visit spot!
Your dog will love sitting out on the shady terrace on warmer days, where you can admire the breathtaking views, or in winter, they can cosy up around the log fire inside. Discover more about Lo Garâjo here.
Find a pet-friendly chalet in the Aravis
Annecy
Annecy is a very dog-friendly city. The OVO Network team are based here and we regularly take our dogs to the numerous bars, restaurants and cafés with us.
Here are our favourite spots…
Haven, Annecy Old Town
Australian-inspired brunch, coffee and cake are all on the menu at Haven, which is located in the Old Town next to Monoprix.
The staff are so friendly and the ambience is modern and relaxed. Choose to sit inside or outdoors with your dog, but make sure to book ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Brasserie Saint Maurice, Annecy Old Town
Our team frequently visits Brasserie Saint Maurice, which offers a delicious range of European dishes for great value.
In summer, the terrace is the perfect lunch spot, overlooking the charming surroundings of the historical buildings whilst providing cool, shady spots for dogs.
Mont Blanc region
Moo Bar Cuisine, Chamonix
The staff at Moo Bar Cuisine welcome dogs with open arms, providing water bowls and ample space both inside and out.
Owners can enjoy the hearty dishes and lunchtime deals, or simply relax in the sun with a coffee or a beer.
Arctic Juice and Café, Chamonix
Located on Rue de Joseph Vallot, this is a great spot to enjoy organic juice, coffee, and snacks… or even the occasional dog treat if you’re lucky!
Other sites include La Clusaz, Val d’Isere, Annecy and Lausanne.
BJ’s Café, St Gervais
Another team favourite, BJ’s café in St Gervais is a casual venue serving drinks and no-fuss food. There’s plenty of space so it’s easy to relax with your dog by your side, plus keen motorheads can admire the stunning collection of classic cars!
Click here to view our dog-friendly partner properties in Megève / Evasion Mont Blanc and here for chalets which welcome pets in Chamonix.
The Grand Massif
Le Michet, Flaine
This restaurant is located in the heart of Flaine on the slopes, but this doesn’t stop you from getting there on foot with your dog for lunch or dinner.
Sample a broad range of dishes from Savoyard specialities such as Tartiflette to hearty comforts like pasta and burgers all the way to Poké bowls and Tuna Tataki.
La Reposette, Samoëns
If you’re looking for a cosy, laid-back vibe, then we’d recommend heading to La Reposette. Hearty French favourites such as fondue can be enjoyed alongside burgers and daily specials.
Dogs are welcome to accompany you inside, or if you prefer, on sunny days you can both enjoy the generous balcony.
Dog-friendly chalets in the Grand Massif
We hope you enjoy sampling some of the dishes at these wonderful dog-friendly cafés and restaurants!
If you enjoyed reading this, we also think you’ll love:
- Walking with your dog in the French Alps: what you need to know
- Travelling to France with a dog: what you need to know
And don’t forget to head over to our website to discover our fantastic range of pet-friendly partner properties across the Alps:
