With its majestic lakes, limestone peaks, Savoyard traditions and festive spirit, Chambéry Montagnes is much more than a destination: it’s an immersion. A unique potion – the Elixir of Savoie – to be savoured all year round, with eyes wide open and a light heart.
Here are 10 compelling reasons to come and explore this land of contrasts in the heart of the Alps.
Welcome to the Cité des Ducs!
Stroll along the cobbled streets, cross the secret alleys and walk along the trompe-l’œil facades.
Admire the Fontaine des Éléphants (Elephant Fountain), known to the locals as the “Four with no arses”, a quirky and inescapable emblem.
Push open the doors of the Château des Ducs de Savoie, and be surprised by the Sainte-Chapelle and its mysterious past linked to the Holy Shroud.
And why not make a diversion to Saint-François-de-Sales cathedral? You’ll be dazzled by its monumental trompe-l’œil.
Straddling the Bauges and Chartreuse massifs, this is a destination set in a wilderness setting. Hiking is king here. Signposted trails lead you to ridges, silent forests and flower-filled mountain pastures. Watch the chamois, sleep in a refuge, share a hot soup under a starry sky.
We bet you’ll be back for more?
In winter, it’s all about skiing – downhill, cross-country or hiking – snowshoeing or biathlon. Discover our two mid-range mountain resorts in the heart of the Bauges, Savoie Grand Revard and Aillons-Margériaz.
In summer, slip on your trainers or hiking boots, get on your bike or mountain bike, or unfurl your paraglider. Here, outdoor sports are practised in 4-season mode.
The adventure starts here!
Epicureans take note: here, the terroir has character. Taste the Tome des Bauges PDO, the melting Matouille, the white wine diots and the mountain cheeses. Serve with a glass of Mondeuse or Roussette.
The hardest part? Resisting the urge to take it all home.
Between the peaceful shores of Lac du Bourget, France’s largest natural lake, the tranquil turquoise waters of Lac d’Aiguebelette, or the gentle waters of small Alpine lakes(La Thuile, Saint-André, Lescheraines), you’re spoilt for choice.
Kayak, paddle, laze on the beach… or simply take a dip in the refreshing water! We’ll let you choose your version of la dolce vita.
Here, authenticity is made by hand. Come and meet passionate craftsmen, visit a cheese factory, a brewery, a potter’s workshop or a cutler’s workshop… Whether in the heart of the Bauges mountains or in the cobbled streets of Chambéry’s historic centre, our craftsmen have talent!
Take home a souvenir made with love. You’ll see, it changes everything!
Whether you’re a weekend cyclist, a seasoned climber or a keen touring cyclist, this is the place for you!
The ViaRhôna, the Tour des Bauges, the Belle Via, the legendary climbs (Granier, Revard, Plainpalais…), or the green route that will take the whole family to the shores of Lac du Bourget.
There’s always a route to explore, a pass to climb or a view to enjoy. And for those with smaller calves, the VAE (electrically assisted bicycle) works wonders!
In the villages, the art of getting together is cultivated: village festivals, farmers’ markets, gourmet walks… Each event is an invitation to share, laugh and enjoy authenticity.
In Chambéry, culture is in full swing with the Festival de la BD, Chambéry Quelle Histoire andLes Estivales en Savoie. These events combine heritage, entertainment and discovery.
When it comes to sport, the atmosphere is just as good: follow our clubs in the national or European championships (handball, rugby, hockey, biathlon, etc.), or embark on an adventure with trail running, mountain biking or hiking. Thrills guaranteed!
GCAT_052059Take the time to lose yourself in the authentic villages in the heart of the Bauges. Wash-houses, bread ovens, traditional buildings and flower-filled meadows, local producers and genuine smiles. Away from the hustle and bustle, close to what’s essential.
At Chambéry Montagnes, you don’t tick off a destination on a map. You come back. For its soothing landscapes. For its welcoming people. For its inspiring traditions. For the freedom to experience everything at your own pace. Because you don’t visit a place like this. You come back. All the time.
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Bauges Autumn 2022
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Winter - Aillons-MargeriazHorizons to explore…
