Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Hotel du Mont-Joly, located in Saint-Gervais-les-Bains in Haute-Savoie, is an architectural testimony to the rise of Alpine tourism in the late 19th century. Located opposite Mount Joly (2525 m), it embodies the cross appeal for thermalism, mountaineering and winter sports, attracting an easy clientele. Its history reflects the evolution of tourism practices in the Alps, with a transformation into private residences in 1947, marking the end of its hotel use.

The building consists of three distinct parts, reflecting different eras and styles. The southern section, the oldest (first half of the 19th century), adopts a neoclassicism of Sardinian influence. The central part, with metal frame, illustrates an industrial eclecticism at the end of the 19th century, while the northern wing (1911) is part of Art Nouveau, with a desire to harmonize by architect Martin Augustyniak. The ensemble, originally designed by Célestin Longerey, was classified as a Historic Monument in 1997 for its facades and roofs.

The hotel welcomed notable personalities, symbolizing the prestige of Savoyard stations before its conversion. Its hybrid architecture, combining tradition and modernity, makes it a unique example of Alpine hotel heritage. Today, although closed to the public, there remains a major visual landmark of Saint-Gervais, linked to the history of tourism and mountain sports in Haute-Savoie.

The precise location of the building (412-448 Avenue du Mont-Paccard) and its inscription as historic monuments underline its heritage importance. The architects Longerey and Augustyniak left a lasting impression, combining technical innovation (metal frame) and Art Nouveau aesthetics, while preserving a visual unity despite successive additions.

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