TOP 5 walks from Chambéry

In Chambéry, nature is never far away. From the historic heart of the city, you can escape on foot to places of freshness, contemplation or discovery, without taking the car. These five walks, accessible directly from the town centre, are the perfect embodiment of the spirit of Chambéry Montagnes as a destination: a subtle blend of history, nature and the good life. Here’s our selection for a taste of the elixir of Savoie, between town and nature.

All our walks and hikes

1. In the footsteps of Jean-Jacques Rousseau

This is an emblematic walk for lovers of heritage and poetry. Leaving the historic centre, you join a bucolic path that climbs gently towards the Charmettes valley. Here, nestled in a green setting, is the house where Jean-Jacques Rousseau stayed with Madame de Warens between 1736 and 1742. Along the way, you’ll pass through tree-lined lanes and small meadows, where peace and quiet reign supreme. It’s an ideal way to recharge your batteries while following in the footsteps of one of the greatest thinkers of the Age of Enlightenment.

🕒 approx. 2h to 3h return 🥾 6.4 km ️ +130 m

Jean-Jacques Rousseau's walk

©C. Haas - Grand Chambéry Alpes Tourisme

©Alexandre Gendron - ag-photo.fr - Grand Chambéry Alpes Tourisme

2. Following the elephants

This is an ideal urban walk to discover the soul of Chambéry. Starting at the Elephant Fountain, the city’s landmark, the stroll continues through the cobbled streets of the old town centre, hidden courtyards, private mansions and discreet alleys that reveal the history of the city of the Dukes. The route crosses the cathedral, skirts the ancient ramparts, bypasses the castle of the Dukes of Savoy and reveals other heritage treasures at every turn. It’s the perfect way to soak up Chambéry’s unique atmosphere, a blend of living history and gentle architecture.

🕒 between 1h and 1h30 depending on your pace 🥾 2 km

Following the elephants

3. La Croix de la Coche

From the southern outskirts of the town, this walk takes you up to the heights via a beautiful wooded slope. The path climbs steadily up to a cross planted as a lookout point. From up there, the view of the Chambéry basin, Mont Granier and the Bauges is spectacular. It’s an ideal walk for those who want to gain a bit of altitude without straying far from the town, in a calm, natural setting.

🕒 approximately 3h 🥾 between 6.8 and 8.6 km depending on the starting point ️ between +359 and +433 m

Heading for the Croix de la Coche

4. Parc de l'Etincelle

Head for the heights of Chambéry for a soothing stroll through forest and meadow. From the city centre, the Parc de l’Étincelle is accessed via the Parc de la Calamine, with a small river running through it, ideal for a cool break in summer. This vast natural area offers walking trails, views over the city and a relaxing atmosphere. The nearby Maison des Charmettes adds a beautiful cultural touch to this green, accessible and rejuvenating getaway.

🕒 approx. 2h to 3h round trip 🥾 6.4 km ️ +130 m

5. The Jacob-Bellecombette waterfalls

Nestling in the leafy commune of Jacob-Bellecombette, these waterfalls are a real gem. From the centre of Chambéry, walk along a shady path that runs alongside the Nant du Pontet stream. Winding gently upstream, you’ll discover several small waterfalls in a cool, wild setting. It’s an easy walk, perfect for escaping the summer heat or taking a moment to unwind as the water flows by.

🕒 between 1h and 2h 🥾 around 2 km round trip ️ +250 m