Alpine lakes around Chambéry Montagnes

At the gateway to Chambéry and the Bauges massif, nature has created a magical setting. Here, the Alpine lakes promise gentle adventures and precious moments… From the vast Lac du Bourget to the intimate Lac Saint André, from the pure waters of Annecy to the gentle waters of Aiguebelette, each body of water is an invitation to slow down, breathe and contemplate.

” In no other place can you find a more beautiful harmony between water, sky, mountains and earth. There are balms for all the crises of life “.

Honoré de Balzac

Lake Bourget Immensity in majesty

The largest natural lake of glacial origin in France is like a living painting. Here, the mountains plunge into waters of changing hues: deep blue one day, clear turquoise the next.

Just a short pedal or paddle from Chambéry, Lac du Bourget offers a wide range of experiences: romantic cruises, swimming, paddle boarding at sunrise or discovering sites steeped in history. Hautecombe Abbey, the necropolis of the Dukes of Savoy, dominates the waters and recounts the past with grandeur. And what about the village of Chanaz, nicknamed “the little Venice of the Alps”, where you can stroll between crafts and gourmet delights?

For a fun, family-friendly break, head to Les Mottets: 15 hectares of space for everyone, with a beach, skate park, children’s play area and landscaped paths.

Aix-les-Bains Riviera des Alpes

Get some height

The lookouts all around the lake offer spectacular panoramic views.

Discover

Lake Saint-André Between vineyards and cliffs

15 km from Chambéry, Lac Saint-André welcomes you to the foot of the impressive Mont Granier cliff. The setting is spectacular and soothing.

Surrounded by the largest vineyards in Savoie, it’s ideal for a nature break: walks, birdwatching… or a quiet fishing trip. Swimming is not supervised and is limited to certain areas.

Accessible by bike from Chambéry via the Belle Via, this route crosses the stunning landscape of Les Abymes, between ponds and scree.

Coeur de Savoie Tourist Office

La Thuile a confidential setting in the Bauges mountains

Lac de La Thuile awaits you at an altitude of 874 m, at the southern tip of the Bauges massif. This small glacial lake, one of the few mid-altitude Alpine lakes, lies halfway between the large lowland lakes (Annecy, Aiguebelette, Bourget) and the high altitude lakes.

It is the only natural lake in the Bauges massif. Surrounded by reeds and peaceful meadows, it has a wild, unspoilt feel. Here, the atmosphere is serene, far from the hustle and bustle, and nature takes its rightful place.

A signposted footpath takes you around the lake, enjoying the peace and quiet and the views over the valley. In winter, the lake is often covered in a thick layer of ice, up to 20 cm in places! Just a stone’s throw away, the Nécuidet marsh, which has been restored and protected, also offers a lovely walk.

Good to know:

La Thuile is just 30 minutes from Chambéry. An easy getaway to immerse yourself in a picture-postcard setting.

Lake Aiguebelette The emerald of the Alps

Imagine a lake with turquoise reflections, surrounded by reed beds, forests and wet meadows. Lake Aiguebelette, in the Savoyard foreland, is a veritable jewel case of nature. There are no combustion engines here: the water remains crystal clear and biodiversity flourishes.

It’s also a special place, with its traditional boathouses, the only ones of their kind in Europe. In summer, the water reaches 28°C: perfect for swimming, relaxing and having fun.

On the banks, 7 equipped and supervised beaches await you. You can hire pedalos, kayaks, paddleboats or rowing boats… and cruise along in a picture-postcard setting.

Lake Annecy between purity and panoramic views

A veritable natural jewel nestling between Savoie and Haute-Savoie, Lake Annecy captivates visitors with the exceptional transparency of its waters. Thanks to an environmental policy that has been in place for over fifty years, it is now recognised as one of the purest lakes in Europe.

There’s no shortage of fun to be had on its shores. In fine weather, you can dive into the clear water or go sailing, water-skiing or paddle-boarding. All around, a cycle path of over 40 km invites you to explore the countryside at your own pace, by bike or on foot. And for thrill-seekers, the surrounding mountains offer an ideal playground: ridge walks, mountain biking, via-ferrata, canyoning and even paragliding.

Lake Annecy Tourist Office

Annecy is also a lively town, classified as a “Town of Art and History”. Castles, museums, exhibitions, guided tours… the cultural discoveries here are as rich as the panorama. And then there’s the old town. Criss-crossed by flower-filled canals, it envelops you in a picture-postcard atmosphere. Its cobbled streets, colourful arcades and unspoilt charm make the heart of the “Venice of the Alps” beat faster.

Frequently asked questions

Which lake to choose for a family day out?
Lac d’Aiguebelette is perfect for families: 7 supervised beaches, water at 28°C in summer, pedalo and kayak hire. The Mottets site, on the shores of Lac du Bourget, also offers play areas for children.
Where can I swim for free?
At Lac du Bourget, several bathing areas are freely accessible, including the municipal beach at Le Bourget-du-Lac. However, some beaches charge a fee. The Lescheraines lake is free and supervised during the summer season, with only the car park subject to a charge.
Which lake is most accessible from Chambéry?
Lac du Bourget is a 10-minute drive away and is easily accessible by bike via the Belle Via. Lac Saint-André is just 15 km away, ideal for a bike ride from Chambéry.
What's the best time of year to visit the Alpine lakes?
Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports. Spring and autumn offer magnificent scenery for hiking and cycling. In winter, Lake La Thuile freezes under the ice – a rare sight!
Where can I hire boating equipment?
At Lac d’Aiguebelette, hire companies offer pedalos, paddleboats and kayaks on the main beaches. On Lac du Bourget, you’ll find water sports centres in Aix-les-Bains and Le Bourget-du-Lac.

Discover also …

Health and services Aillons Margériaz

Tour des Bauges, itineraries and refuges

Experiences

Northern ambience in Savoie