Regional nature park du Massif des Bauges

A committed Regional Nature Park

Created in 1995, the Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park ‘s mission is to preserve and promote its natural and cultural heritage, while supporting respectful and balanced development.
Today, 64 municipalitiesare involved, alongside the gateway towns, the Savoie and Haute-Savoie departments and the Rhône-Alpes Region, in a truly collective dynamic.

A natural treasure between lakes and peaks

Did you know that 21 of the 38 communes that make up Chambéry Montagnes are located within the Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park? That just goes to show how much this massif is at the heart of our region, at the heart of our Savoie Elixir.

Born from the depths of an ancient ocean, the limestone massif of the Bauges reveals its paths, cliffs and streams like so many pages in a history that dates back millions of years.
Between Lake Annecy and Lac du Bourget, this area alternates between wine-growing villages, lush mountain pastures, deep forests and peaks rising to 2,217 m. Secret valleys, sun-drenched slopes… Here, nature and man live in perfect harmony.

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An island of nature between Savoie and Haute-Savoie

Nestling between Lake Bourget and Lake Annecy, the Massif des Bauges is an unspoilt green setting, a haven for lovers of wide open spaces, wildlife and exceptional landscapes. Here, 14 peaks rise to over 2000 metres. Their names – Arcalod, Pécloz, Colombier… – sound like promises of adventure.

An NRP classified as a Geopark A living land under the sign of UNESCO

On 17 September 2011, a new page was written for the Massif des Bauges: its Geopark saw the light of day. It thus became the 3ᵉ French Geopark, joining an international network supported by UNESCO, now made up of 87 exceptional territories, including 49 in Europe.
Hiking here sometimes means walking in the footsteps of an ancient fossilised ocean floor… amazing, isn’t it?

What is a UNESCO Geopark?

Much more than a label, a Geopark is a genuine lever for sustainable development. It promotes the geological wealth of an area, while creating positive spin-offs for tourism and the local economy.
Our ambition? To ensure that residents and visitors alike discover the Massif des Bauges from a fresh perspective, in a way that respects the environment.

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Three key missions

To preserve and understand outstanding geological sites so that we can pass them on to future generations.
Sharing and awakening curiosity through themed trails, guided tours, exhibitions and interactive teaching aids.
Encouraging gentle, sustainable tourism by creating immersive experiences in the heart of nature.

A collective adventure and already on the move

A Geopark is not just for geology specialists. It’s a living, shared history that helps to protect sites while showcasing an area, inspiring new vocations and bringing together local people, visitors and stakeholders.
In the Massif des Bauges, this dynamic was already underway even before the label was awarded: interpretation trails, guided tours, etc. And this is just the beginning: new trails will soon be created, opening the doors to this fascinating universe even wider.

Experience the rhythm of the park

Why not slow down?

The Park invites you to take your time: contemplate a flight of bearded vultures, breathe in the fresh air at the summit, listen to the silence in the mountain pastures, pick up the little stories told by stones and men.

The Baujus villages – Le Châtelard, Lescheraines, Aillon-le-Jeune… – welcome you in a simple and warm atmosphere. Here, traditional skills endure: farmhouse cheeses, handmade pottery, storytelling by the fireside. This is what the Park is all about: a way of life that’s close to the land and close to the people.

Discover the 14 villages of the Cœur des Bauges

“The Bauges is our corner of paradise. Nature that’s still true to itself, a mountain on a human scale. Here, you can breathe in what’s essential.

A warden from the Regional Nature Park

A land of hiking, white water and freedom

On foot, by bike, by paraglider or in the waters of the Chéran – a designated Wild River Site – the Massif des Bauges can be discovered by all the senses.

It’s a life-size playground for active tribes, contemplative types, heritage enthusiasts and those curious about biodiversity.

Green information

You’re in a Regional Nature Park: every gesture counts. Use soft mobility, respect the signposted footpaths and take your rubbish with you. Together, let’s preserve this living land.

Our hiking tips