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E. Dutordoir

Astronomy Under the stars Chambéry Montagnes

At Chambéry Montagnes,the experience continues after sunset.

Far from the light pollution of towns and cities, the Massif des Bauges becomes a balcony overlooking the Milky Way. Telescope viewing, themed trails, fun workshops, evenings under the stars…

This initiative is also supported by the Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park, which is developing an ambitious project to showcase the night sky through specially designed observation sites, in partnership with astronomy clubs and local craftspeople.

Exploring the skies with local people

Enthusiasts are on hand to guide you as you explore the skies and gain a better understanding of the universe. Through their knowledge and their ability to share it, they make astronomy accessible, lively and captivating.

Their expert insights transform every observation into a moment of discovery and wonder.

Activities and events

Look up and let yourself be guided. With children’s workshops, introductory sessions and talks, astronomy can be explored here with ease, combining learning and wonder.

A break under the stars, to be savoured as a true taste of the Milky Way.

A sky protected and promoted by the Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park

Since 2017, the Massif des Bauges Nature Park has been working to preserve the quality of the night sky: supporting local councils in the sustainable management of lighting, raising awareness of artificial light, protecting sensitive species, and so on. In 2024, the “Starry Sky” project will be rolled out with the creation of four specially designed observation sites, developed in collaboration with local designers and craftspeople. Featuring educational displays, sculptures, poetic audio guides and solid-wood models of the planets, each site offers an engaging and lasting experience of the night sky.

Starry skies 4 developed sites To discover the sky and its mysteries

Aillon the Younger Path of the Stars

In the forest of Aillon-le-Jeune, this immersive trail invites visitors to make connections between the constellations and the local wildlife. Along the trail, monumental sculptures created by local artisans – including an impressive silhouette of an eagle with outstretched wings – mark the route. It’s an original way to discover the stars whilst exploring the legends and wildlife of the mountain range.

Curienne Planet Trail

In Curienne, the planets are aligned along an educational trail dotted with installations made from local solid timber. A life-size planetarium allows visitors to visualise the actual positions of the celestial bodies according to the ephemeris. This fun and educational trail provides a practical understanding of celestial distances and movements, whilst raising awareness of the wonders of the night sky.

Le Châtelard The Garins Mountain Hut

Here, observation takes on a poetic form. Lying in a huge suspended hammock, you can gaze at the stars, lulled by the voices of astronomers and poets played via an audio guide or QR code. This place of intimacy and contemplation feels like an inner journey, where you listen to the sky just as much as you look at it.

Saint Francis de Sales The Path of Lights

In Saint-François-de-Sales, the new ‘Path of Lights’ promises a sensory exploration of the sky and its rhythms. With fixed telescopes and information panels explaining the phases of the Moon and the Sun’s path, everything is designed to make learning fun. Accessible to all, this trail perfectly complements the Nordic and nature activities on offer at this iconic gateway to the resort.

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