Saint-Julien-en-Genevois

Saint-Julien-en-Genevois is the first significant locality that the pilgrim of the Via Gebennensis encounters after crossing the border from Switzerland to France. Its main role on the Jacobean route is that of a functional service center and a transition point. For the walker who has left Geneva, this small town in Haute-Savoie offers the first opportunity to immerse oneself in everyday French life. Although it does not have a great monumental heritage, it provides all the necessary services for the pilgrim: accommodations, supermarkets, and restaurants. Its proximity to Mont Salève, "the mountain of Genovese", offers stunning views of Geneva and Lake Lemán. On the Way of St James, Saint-Julien-en-Genevois is a practical stopping point, a place to rest after the first day, adapt to the change of country, and prepare for the following stages that will venture into French countryside and pre-Alps. It is the true beginning of the journey through France for many pilgrims.