After two seasons of Chamonix I can never imagine being bored by its varied and steep terrain. After a week in Tignes I felt like I had covered almost every inch of the mountain even though it is obviously more interconnected.
I went to Annecy for a youth exchange -- it is beyond amazing! I will go again one day!
If it is on-piste boarding/skiing you are after, Chamonix may not be the place for you. I am halfway through a season here and am just beginning to discover that it is all about the off-piste. That is the big deal with Chamonix.
Vienne is a very interesting historical small town -- both ancient (Romans) and medieval city. There are many small restaurants, pizzerias, and small supermarkets open late at night. It's probably a good place to sleep if you have to stay in Lyons or go down to the South of France by the Rhone Valley.
What a beautiful city! I've been twice and both times it took my breath away. I recommend renting a small motor boat. Its a wonderful and extremely cheap way to get out on the lake. If you want to experience real french culture... get to Annecy!
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