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As strange as it may seem, Chambéry’s totem animal is an elephant. Now you just have to come and visit us to find out the story behind it!The pachyderm is famous for moving slowly and its incredible memory; a description that perfectly encapsulates slow tourism. Take your time to explore what nearby destinations have to offer using eco-friendly transport. Forget about packing everything into a quick trip and switch to slow mo to experience the Chambéry lifestyle and meet the friendly locals. Drink in 4 iconic sites in Chambéry Montagnes at your own pace.
And gradually uncover Chambéry’s secrets
Start your wander around Chambéry with the “En suivant les éléphants” trail (Follow the elephants). Follow the elephants engraved on golden plaques peppering the town’s streets. From squares and manors to the cathedral and Elephants Fountain, you’ll stroll along the “traboules” (locals call them “alleyways”) and medieval lanes uncovering the town and its history at your own pace.
The experience is heaven for foodies and anyone who loves beautiful things as the elephant ride takes you to local artisans to sample cheese, regional products and chocolate. Visit Savoyard designers and you’ll be blown away by their creativity and unique pieces be it jewellery, pottery, clothing or artwork. The route is a great excuse to unearth a souvenir from Chambéry.
Further information about the Elephants trail.
And experience the Reveries of a Solitary Walker
If you’d asked the Enlightenment philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau for the pathway to happiness, he’s bound to have said it’s this one that is named after him. This is actually the way he walked to visit his beloved Madame de Warens at Les Charmettes.
He even mentions the building in his Confessions. The house is integral to French literature as countless authors came here for inspiration: Stendhal, George Sand, Alphonse de Lamartine and more. An air of romance reigns over Les Charmettes!
Wander around the garden, orchard and vines that encapsulate the Enlightenment with dozens of medicinal plant species, vegetable gardens, herb gardens and ornamental gardens. The way to this dreamland is no less poetic as it takes you through peaceful gardens with fabulous views of Chambéry Valley.
Further information about Les Charmettes, Maison de Jean-Jacques Rousseau.
Further information about the Jean-Jacques Rousseau walk.
And gaze at the gentle Bauges landscapes
Wondering what a “comfort” walk is? This is a short and easy hike that’s relatively flat with wide paths that are safe and smooth for pushchairs and wheelchairs. It’s a route that sparks wonder among children and adults too!
The îles du Chéran walk is a slice of heaven with its untamed river with unspoilt biodiversity, lakes snug in a leafy haven and a beautiful waterfall. There are lots of rest areas along the way to keep everyone motivated: play areas, snacks, a chamois and angora goat farm and a rope bridge over the Chéran.
There’s even a beach if you fancy a dip. If you are a fishing enthusiast then you’ll love the nearby fishing lake. There’s also lots for children to do too so the kids won’t get bored.
Further information about the Îles du Chéran easy walk
Further information about the Îles du Chéran leisure base
And explore Chambéry Valley at your own pace
What does the odd codename mean? “Véloroute 63” or bike path 63! A total of 35km to ride in one go or several stages along shared safe roads and quiet countryside bike paths.
There are two possible routes from Chambéry: ride north or south between the lakes. Head south to Isère Valley and Saint-André Lake or north to Bourget Lake then Aix-les-Bains and Chanaz.
North: the bike path runs 17km to Aix-les-Bains via Plage des Mottets (Viviers-du-Lac) and Plage du Lido (Tresserve) beaches. You can add in a cruise on a “bike boat” on Bourget Lake from Aix-les-Bains port to Chanaz.
South: 11km of lovely little roads wind through the vineyards with unrivalled views of the Belledonne mountains, Mont Granier and Saint-André Lake.
Further information about the V63
et ouvrez une page de convivialité
If there’s one thing Savoie is famous for, it’s its cheeses. Reblochon, Tomme, Beaufort… Who wouldn’t drool at the names of these cheese stars? You’ll find them in cheese shops, on a visit to a farm, or at the table in a restaurant.
Savoyard cuisine is friendly, festive and comforting. And there’s no season to enjoy it! Try a Savoyard fondue and let the cheese delight your taste buds, spend an evening sharing a delicious tartiflette or raclette, or indulge in more confidential specialities, such as matouille, made with Tome des Bauges cheese.
What would a holiday be without a taste of gourmet delights?
Here’s a list of restaurants to choose from in Chambéry Montagnes! Bon appétit!
Explore, connect, thrive, explore... Here are our top 5 sporty, food & drink or cultural things to do in Chambéry, Savoie's secret capital.
Read the articleLeave your passport, suitcase and mosquito net at home. You don't need to take the plane to go on an adventure, it's right outside your door.
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