What to do in Chambéry Montagnes?
Have you planned a little getaway to Savoie? Then head to Chambéry Montagnes, a territory that blends city, vineyards, and mountains. With Chambéry, the historical capital of the Dukes of Savoie , its magnificent landscapes of the Bauges and Chartreuse massifs, and its vineyards, it’s a concentration of heritage, craftsmanship, and nature. Our reporters Elsa and Héloïse tested it for you: they spent a few days exploring Chambéry Montagnes and the Aix les Bains Riviera des Alpes territory (which we talk about in this article). Follow the guide: a close-up on their favorites, including colorful alleys, encounters with passionate artisans, electric Vespa rides, and gourmet breaks.
Meet the Local Artisans: La Galerie Caractères and Secrets d'Aloyse
If you love craftsmanship, stroll through the historic alleys of old Chambéry. This is where Elsa and Héloïse found their most beautiful surprises. Among them, Galerie Caractères, Elsa's favorite: a collective shop that showcases the skills of nine artists and artisans. Located on Rue Basse du Château, it brings together a dozen local artists with varied worlds: ceramicists, sculptors, jewelers, weavers, painters, leather goods makers... Each work reflects a unique sensibility, making the visit all the more enriching. The space is bright, well-organized, and very welcoming. You'll find pieces for all tastes, from refined jewelry to contemporary sculpture, as well as leather creations and ceramic objects.
A charming place, according to our reporter Elsa: "The welcome is warm, the price ranges are varied to make craftsmanship accessible to all, and each piece is presented with passion. >> In short, the ideal place to discover local expertise and leave with an authentic souvenir or an original gift."
©Elsa Beaudeux - The charming Caractères gallery
Right next door, the Secrets d’Aloyse boutique is a place full of sweetness where Christine makes her 100% natural cosmetics in her back room. "<< Inherited from her grandfather, you can feel Christine's passion for plants. It's even possible to participate in workshops to create your own products, » Elsa tells us.
©Elsa Beaudeux - Christine and her natural cosmetics
A great way to leave with a unique and 100% Savoyard souvenir (or gift), while supporting local creators.
Discover the Old Town Differently: The Elephants' Route (Le Parcours des Éléphants)
It's impossible to visit Chambéry without encountering its famous pachyderms! The Parcours des Éléphants is a fun walk through the old town, perfect for discovering its medieval alleys, fountains, and colorful facades. Remember to pick up the route sheet at the tourist office, then follow the little elephants inlaid on the ground: an original way to explore the essentials of the city center, at your own pace.
©Elsa Beaudeux - The elephant fountain in Chambéry
La Dolce Vita, Green Version: Discover Chambéry Montagnes on an Electric Vespa
What if you discovered the Chambéry Montagnes territory (which encompasses 38 municipalities, including Chambéry) differently? Elsa and Héloïse tested the electric Vespa for you, ideal for exploring Chambéry and its surroundings without noise or emissions.
"The electric scooters are simple to ride, with a roadmap provided for exploring Chambéry and its vineyards independently. You get a real feeling of freedom. I loved the experience!" - Elsa
In short, a fun and eco-responsible experience, between mountain roads and Savoyard villages, hair in the wind and a guaranteed smile.
© Elsa Beaudeux - A Vespa that blends into the landscape
Nature Break at Lake Saint-André
Just a few kilometers from Chambéry, Lake Saint-André is a little gem nestled at the foot of the Chartreuse massif. Our reporters found it a perfect spot for a picnic or simply relaxing by the water. "Even on a cloudy day, the view is magnificent," says Elsa. A peaceful spot, ideal for extending the nature interlude before returning to the city.
© Elsa Beaudeux - The beautiful view of Lake Saint-André, even when it's cloudy
Explore Chambéry by Bike to Rousseau's Gardens
Do you prefer cycling? Thanks to the Vélostation, located right next to the train station, you can easily rent a bike and get to Les Charmettes, the house of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, in just ten minutes. "You have to climb to get there, but with electric assistance, nothing could be simpler," says Elsa. Blending heritage and nature, the route is very accessible and takes you directly to the famous writer's gardens.
©Elsa Beaudeux - After the electric Vespa, the electric-assist bicycle!
A Nature Interlude at Les Charmettes
For a bucolic and literary break, head to Les Charmettes, the house of Jean-Jacques Rousseau. The philosopher lived here from 1736 to 1742 with his protector, Mme de Warrens. Our reporters cycled up to enjoy a beautiful nature walk starting from Chambéry. "The journey to get there, which can be done on foot or by bike, is particularly pleasant," recounts Héloïse. "You alternate between undergrowth and beautiful panoramas of the valley, before arriving in the peaceful gardens of the philosopher's house!" The perfect visit for a soothing and green afternoon, between the house-museum, gardens, orchard, and exhibitions.
Walk from Les Charmettes
Although our reporters were unable to reach the Croix de Coche due to the weather (a hike we still highly recommend) , the walk starting from Les Charmettes was already superb. "In a few minutes, you go from the city to vast plateaus, with cows and a breathtaking view of the mountains surrounding Chambéry! A surprising and very pleasant contrast, between urbanity and nature," Elsa details.
Where to Eat in Chambéry?
For Lunch: L'Atelier du Citron
For your taste buds, we recommend L’Atelier du Citron for a lunch that is as inventive as it is refined. Creative cuisine that highlights tangy flavors in a convivial atmosphere.
"An absolutely brilliant restaurant, run by Chef Ilde Pinna. You eat there like at home: she cooks right in front of you. Places are limited, but the taste is definitely there. Everything is homemade, based on lemon that she grows in Sardinia. I highly recommend it!" - Elsa
A culinary experience that perfectly sums up the spirit of the authentic, generous, and slightly bold city.
© Elsa Beaudeux - The chef in the midst of preparation
For Dinner: Le Café de Lyon and Le Savoyard
If you want to discover a historic address, the Café de Lyon is a must-visit. "The dishes are well-prepared and vegetarian options are available, specifies Elsa. The atmosphere of the restaurant is very friendly and the service is impeccable." The ideal place to sample local specialties revisited with modernity in a bistronomic and warm setting.
© Elsa Beaudeux - The kind of generous plates you can find at Café de Lyon
A stone's throw from the center, Le Savoyard, labeled Maître Restaurateur since 2013, offers seasonal cuisine inspired by the terroir. Fondue, raclette, tartiflette, Berthoud, or ravioles... you'll find the Savoyard essentials in a rustic and friendly atmosphere.
Where to Sleep in Chambéry?
La Maison des Ducs
To extend your stay, put down your bags at Maison des Ducs, a charming accommodation located right in the heart of Chambéry, tested and approved by Elsa and Héloïse.
"The place is superb, with a large garden, cabins for 4 to 6 people, and a multi-centennial tree that gives the impression of being in the countryside," says Elsa.
"The hotel restaurant also offers a warm dining area and a beautiful terrace for lunch in the sun," adds Héloïse.
In short, the perfect spot to explore the city on foot without compromising on comfort and calm.
©Elsa Beaudeux - The warm atmosphere of the House of Dukes
So, when are you leaving? This article was produced in partnership with Auvergne Rhône-Alpes Tourisme. And if you want to extend the adventure, go read our article on Aix-les-Bains, just a stone's throw away.
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.
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