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Dreaming of a getaway between lakes and mountains? Welcome to the Aix-les-Bains Riviera des Alpes region, just a stone’s throw from Chambéry Montagnes (which we also cover in this article). This natural gem brings together 28 towns and villages around Lake Bourget, France’s largest natural lake.
Our reporters Elsa and Héloïse spent a few days there to uncover the most beautiful discoveries: encounters with passionate locals, unique experiences, delicious food, and havens of relaxation. From a majestic abbey to a traditional mill, from lake yoga to local gastronomy, immerse yourself in an inspiring and rejuvenating stay. Let’s dive in!
One of the highlights of Elsa and Héloïse’s journey was their visit to Hautecombe Abbaye, nestled right on the lakeshore.
“The abbey is absolutely magnificent and really impressive, and the permaculture gardens of the community are delightful. Beyond the stunning architecture, the Chemin Neuf Community (the Christian community living on-site and welcoming visitors a few hours a day, except Mondays and Tuesdays) has turned it into a truly welcoming and peaceful place. Everything is done so visitors feel at ease and enjoy their time here.” - Elsa
For over an hour and a half, they explored the royal apartments and learned more about the abbey’s fascinating history as the necropolis of the Dukes of Savoy.
“What struck me most,” adds Héloïse, “was the serenity of the place. You can barely hear the lake, the frescoes tell centuries of history, and the community shares its daily life with such kindness.”
A cultural, spiritual, and deeply human experience — not to be missed!
Another cultural stop: the Gallo-roman museum, located in a former chapel in Chanaz, a charming village at the northern tip of Lake Bourget. Labeled as a Petite Cité de Caractère, Chanaz is crossed by the Savières Canal, which historically connected the lake to the Rhône. Once used to transport wood, goods, and salt, it now welcomes pleasure boats navigating between the lake and the river across the Chautagne plain.
The museum showcases unique archaeological remains that trace the importance of this region since Antiquity.
“There are plenty of explanations, which make the visit really engaging,” says Elsa.
A small but fascinating museum that helps you understand the Roman and thermal origins of Aix-les-Bains Riviera des Alpes.
© Elsa Beaudeux - Gallo-roman museum
In Chanaz, our reporters met Sébastien, the passionate miller behind the Chanaz Mill.
“The Chanaz Mill offers a truly timeless experience,” says Elsa. “He’s passionate about preserving a rare craft. He produces walnut and hazelnut oils, as well as jam, mustard, and other local specialties. You can feel the authenticity, it’s a visit well worth taking!”
Inside the workshop, the scent of roasted nuts mingles with the rhythmic hum of the gears.
“It feels like stepping into another century,” adds Héloïse. “Everything is handmade, with real attention to quality. And of course, you can’t leave without a bottle of freshly pressed walnut oil!”
© Elsa Beaudeux - The Chanaz Mill
After your visit, head to the Auberge de Savière, a rustic gem right in the heart of the village.
On the menu: delicious, locally inspired cuisine.
“The food is delicious - simple, typically French, and with generous portions,” confirms Elsa.
Between canal, mountains, and local flavors, it’s the perfect stop after visiting the mill and the wine cellar.
© Elsa Beaudeux - The kind of dishes you can find at the Auberge de Savière
A few kilometers from Chanaz lies the Caveau de Chautagne, labeled Vignobles & Découvertes, where you can sample the region’s emblematic wines. Guided by a passionate oenologist, our reporters tasted several cuvées and learned about the local grape varieties, Jacquère, Mondeuse, Altesse (Roussette), and Chautagne Rouge, among others.
“I loved this experience,” says Héloïse. “You can really feel the winemakers’ pride in their terroir, and the setting between lake and vineyards is just stunning.”
A warm, convivial stop that perfectly captures the authentic gourmet soul of Aix-les-Bains Riviera des Alpes.
Looking for a unique experience combining sport, relaxation, and connection with nature? Try paddleboard yoga on Lake Bourget. Out on the water, you’ll work on balance and breathing surrounded by mountain views and the gentle sound of rippling water.
“It’s such an original and accessible activity, even for beginners,” says Elsa, who tested it herself. “The instructor adapts to everyone’s level, and the scenery is absolutely beautiful. A real moment of peace and well-being.”
A meditative break between sky and water.
© Elsa Beaudeux - An activity that combines nature and wellness
To admire Aix-les-Bains Riviera des Alpes from a new perspective, head up to the col de la Chambotte. Easily accessible, this viewpoint offers one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the region.
“Even on a cloudy day, the view is stunning,” notes Héloïse.
From the top, you overlook Lake Bourget and can spot Hautecombe Abbey, and on clear days, even glimpse part of the Alpine chain. The perfect spot for a photo break or picnic with a view!
To extend the wellness experience, make your way to the Domaine de Marlioz, a vast estate combining a Mercure hotel, a Nuxe spa, and thermal baths, all surrounded by a leafy park.
But here, well-being goes beyond pampering: the Domaine is a pilot site for a regenerative tourism program led by LUMIÅ, aiming to leave the local ecosystem in a better state than before.
“What really impressed me,” explains Elsa, “is how this regenerative approach is integrated into every aspect of the estate - hotel, restaurant, spa, thermal baths, and event hosting. Concrete examples include installing water-saving taps, allowing guests to forgo room cleaning in exchange for donations to Restos du Cœur, and prioritizing local suppliers and short circuits.”
This initiative is fully aligned with the ‘Man & Biosphere’ program by the Grand Lac urban community and the regenerative roadmap of the Aix-les-Bains Riviera des Alpes Tourism Agency.
© Elsa Beaudeux - Relaxed atmosphere at Domaine de Marlioz
“What I loved,” adds Héloïse, “is the coherence between high-end comfort and real commitment. The Domaine de Marlioz engages guests in a sustainable and inspiring approach. You feel good here - in a place that truly makes sense.”
In the heart of Aix-les-Bains, the Café des Bains is a local institution.
“The food is delicious, and the couple running it are incredibly kind and welcoming!” say Elsa and Héloïse.
For a more indulgent break, head to the Crêperie des Alpes, another favorite. Expect fresh, local, and organic ingredients cooked to order — our reporters absolutely loved it!
© Elsa Beaudeux - The warm atmosphere of Café des Bains
In the evening, we recommend Restaurant Bioz, located within the Domaine de Marlioz.
“The restaurant really emphasizes local ingredients, which you can taste in the freshness and quality of every dish,” says Elsa. “The menu is both creative and elegant, offering a great variety of bistronomic plates. The service is impeccable, warm and attentive.”
A restaurant where fine dining meets authenticity and local values.
© Elsa Beaudeux - Bioz restaurant
For accommodation, go for comfort and modernity at the Mercure hotel of Domaine de Marlioz within the Domaine de Marlioz. Ideally located just six minutes from the train station by bike, it offers easy access to the spa and all wellness activities.
“The rooms are spacious, well-equipped, and overlook the park. The restaurant serves excellent food, and the spa is directly accessible from the hotel lobby,” says Elsa.
Whether you’re here for a relaxing weekend or a longer stay, it’s a solid choice for making the most of your visit.
In a nutshell, between well-being, cultural discoveries, and gourmet delights, Aix-les-Bains Riviera des Alpes has everything you need for a fulfilling stay. And with nearby Chambéry, you can easily combine both destinations for an even richer experience.
So… when are you going?
This article was produced in partnership with Auvergne Rhône-Alpes Tourisme. To keep exploring, continue your journey in Chambéry Montagnes, discover our dedicated article here.https://www.hourrail.voyage/fr/blog/que-faire-a-chambery
Issue du monde de la communication et des médias, Sophie est Responsable éditoriale chez HOURRAIL ! depuis août 2024. Elle est notamment derrière le contenu éditorial du site ainsi que La Locomissive (de l'inspiration voyage bas carbone et des bons plans, un jeudi sur deux, gratuitement dans ta boîte mail !).
Convaincue que les changements d’habitude passent par la transformation de nos imaginaires, elle s’attache à montrer qu’il est possible de voyager autrement, de manière plus consciente, plus lente et plus joyeuse. Son objectif : rendre le slow travel accessible à toutes et tous, à travers des astuces, des décryptages et surtout, de nouveaux récits.
