Astroonomy Under the stars Chambéry Mountains

At Chambéry Montagnes, the experience continues after sunset.

Away from the halo of city lights, the Massif des Bauges becomes a balcony overlooking the Milky Way. Telescope observation, themed trails, fun workshops, evenings under the stars… Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or just curious about the sky, the region’s partners offer a host of activities to help you explore the mysteries of the universe.

The Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park is also behind this initiative, developing an ambitious project to showcase the night sky with specially-designed observation sites, in conjunction with astronomy clubs and local craftsmen.

It’s possible to explore the stars while discovering the region, and it’s a magical experience.

Exploring the sky with local players

A wide range of facilities offer astronomy-related activities: observation of the sky with the naked eye or telescope, planetariums, family workshops, courses for young people, interactive games, guided walks, etc. Clubs and associations such as ScienceExplo, Les Ateliers de l’Univers, Astrospécial and the celestial points of Curienne and Aillon-le-Jeune make the universe accessible to all.

Les Ateliers de l'Univers

ScienceExplo

Rêves étoilés

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

Since 2017, the Parc du Massif des Bauges has been taking action to preserve the quality of the night sky, helping local authorities to manage lighting in a sensible way, raising awareness of artificial lighting, protecting sensitive species, etc. In 2024, the “Starry skies” project will be rolled out with the creation of four observation sites designed by local designers and craftsmen. With educational furniture, sculptures, poetic audio guides and solid wood planets, each site offers a sensitive and sustainable experience of the sky.

Starry skies 4 sites developed Discover the sky and its mysteries

Aillon-le-Jeune Path of the stars

In the forest of Aillon-le-Jeune, this immersive trail invites visitors to link the constellations to the local fauna. Monumental sculptures created by local craftsmen – including an impressive eagle silhouette with outstretched wings – line the trail. An original way to discover the stars while exploring the legends and animals of the massif.

Sentier d'astronomie - Le sentier des étoiles

Curienne Path of the planets

In Curienne, the planets line up along an educational path punctuated by installations made of local solid wood. A life-size planetarium shows the actual positions of the stars according to the ephemeris. This fun, scientific trail provides concrete reference points for distances and celestial movements, while raising awareness of the richness of the night sky.

Sentier d'astronomie - Le sentier des planètes

Le Châtelard The Garins refuge

Here, observation takes on a poetic form. Lying back in a huge suspended hammock, you can gaze up at the stars, lulled by the voices of astronomers and poets broadcast via audioguide or QR Code. This place of intimacy and contemplation is like an inner journey, where you listen to the sky as much as you look at it.

Astronomie - Un hamac sous les étoiles

Saint-François-de-Sales The path of lights

At Saint-François-de-Sales, the new Path of Light promises a sensory exploration of the sky and its rhythms. With fixed telescopes and displays explaining the phases of the Moon and the path of the Sun, it’s all designed to be fun and educational. Accessible to all, this trail is the perfect complement to the Nordic and nature activities on offer at this emblematic gateway to the resort.