Stays in the Bauges

Discover the Magic of the Bauges Mountains

A wild haven between lakes and peaks, in the heart of the Alps

Just a stone's throw from Chambéry, Annecy, and Aix-les-Bains, the Bauges Massif stands out as an exceptional natural haven , suspended between the plains and the high mountains. Here, only twenty minutes from the hustle and bustle of city life, nature reigns supreme . Vertiginous cliffs, deep forests, bucolic plateaus, underground rivers, and unspoiled villages make up this true island of mid-mountain landscape , at once wild, authentic, and welcoming.

With fourteen peaks exceeding 2,000 meters and just as many charming villages, the region invites you to explore at a leisurely pace or with more strenuous activity , depending on your preferences. Hiking, climbing, contemplating, tasting, meeting people: everything here encourages you to slow down and marvel .

Designated a Regional Natural Park in 1995 and recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2011 , the Bauges massif is much more than a landscape: it is a living heritage , encompassing geological, cultural, and human aspects. These distinctions testify to the richness of its terrain, the quality of its environment, and the commitment of its inhabitants to preserving a way of life in harmony with nature .

A Paradise of Outdoor Activities Throughout the Seasons

The Bauges Mountains, an active destination all year round

A territory that is both preserved, wild, and accessible, the Bauges Massif is a true land of adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, each season offers its own unique experiences, amidst peaks, forests, alpine pastures, and lakes. Whether you are a seasoned hiker, a passionate cyclist, or a winter sports enthusiast, the Bauges are best experienced in a completely natural setting .

Hiking: 7000 km of freedom

When the good weather returns, the mountain range opens up like a storybook. In spring, wildflowers color the slopes , in summer, the long days invite you to gain altitude, and in autumn, the forests ablaze with red and gold transform each path into a living painting.

With over 7000 km of marked trails , the Chartreuse is an eldorado for hiking , from family walks to major climbs.

Among the iconic peaks:

1. 🏆 L'Arcalod (2,217 m), the highest peak in the Bauges mountains, is reserved for experienced hikers
2. ⛰️ Mount Pecloz , famous for its spectacular ridges
3. The Trélod , recognizable by its perched syncline shape
4. Mont d'Armenaz , kingdom of the chamois
5. And of course, the Dent de Cons , the Pointe des Arces , the Mont de la Coche … so many breathtaking viewpoints overlooking Mont Blanc or the neighbouring lakes.

Themed routes such as the “Banges Mountain” or the “Roc des Bœufs” allow you to explore in complete safety, with detailed information sheets (duration, elevation gain, difficulty) to support you.

Cycling & Mountain Biking: Fun on Two Wheels

Cyclists are at home here. On road, on trail, on gravel or on e-MTB, the territory can be explored with pedal strokes, gently or with performance.

The star route? The Tour des Bauges by bike , a 120-130 km loop linking Annecy, Aix-les-Bains, Chambéry, Albertville, Faverges, and Montmélian , winding through lakes, vineyards, and mountain peaks. Accessible to all levels, it offers a sporting and gourmet break , with stages certified as "Accueil Vélo" (Cyclist Welcome) and numerous cultural and gastronomic stops.

For mountain biking enthusiasts , the marked trails of the natural park offer varied terrain, both fun and technical, perfect for sporting or family outings. You'll pass alpine farms, viewpoints, and deep forests, for a true change of scenery on two wheels.

❄️ Winter Sports: A Gentle Mountain Range

When snow arrives, the Bauges Massif becomes a white cocoon , perfect for mountain holidays without the crowds.

❄️ Aillons-Margériaz , Le Semnoz , La Sambuy – Seythenex , La Féclaz – Le Revard and Plainpalais welcome young and old for alpine skiing , Nordic skiing , snowshoeing , ski touring , sledding , or even dog sledding !

The Savoie Grand Revard resort is a renowned cross-country skiing destination, boasting 150 km of trails and a very accessible forest setting. More athletic skiers can try ski touring to explore the wilder side of the Bauges mountains, far from the ski lifts.

Water sports: Between Lake Annecy and Lake Bourget

Even though the heart of the Bauges is mountainous, water is never far away . In summer, the lakes of Annecy and Bourget (less than 30 minutes away) perfectly complement the outdoor activities available.

At Lake Annecy , renowned for its purity, you can practice: paddleboarding / canoeing / sailing / water skiing / wakeboarding / diving or simply… swimming.

The leisure centre of the Îles du Chéran , on the edge of the massif, is ideal for refreshing days with the family with water slides, stand-up paddleboarding, equipped beaches , and a guaranteed relaxing atmosphere.

What is the best time to discover the Bauges?

The Bauges Massif is experienced in rhythm with the seasons , and each one offers a different experience, depending on your desires.

1. Spring (April to June) : Nature gently awakens, meadows are covered with wildflowers , waterfalls flow, and temperatures are perfect for hiking in peace and quiet.
2. ☀️ Summer (July-August) : Time for great adventures! With its long, bright days and pleasant temperatures at altitude, summer is the ideal season for hiking, cycling, mountain biking or aquatic getaways on the nearby lakes.
3. Autumn (September-November) : The mountain range is adorned with vibrant colors , the air is fresh but mild, and the trails become a veritable festival of golden hues. A magical time for lovers of photography, tranquility, and unspoiled nature .
4. ❄️ Winter (December to March) : When snow blankets the peaks and forests, the Bauges mountains become a white haven. It's the perfect time for skiing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or enjoying the family-friendly resorts .

Tip : Remember to book your accommodation in advance during school holidays, and check the weather forecast or snow conditions in winter to make the most of your stay.

Safety Tips: Enjoy the Bauges mountains with complete peace of mind

Exploring the Bauges Mountains means immersing yourself in wild and magnificent nature. But to ensure the adventure remains a pleasure, a few simple safety precautions are essential, both in summer and winter.

On a hike:

1. Never go alone , especially in the mountains. Stick to marked trails and tell someone about your route.
2. Check the weather forecast before you go: in the mountains, conditions can change quickly.
3. Respect the environment: close gates , stay on the paths and do not feed wild or domestic animals .
4. Be aware of the possible presence of livestock guardian dogs : do not provoke them, calmly go around the flocks.
5. If you choose to camp , set up camp away from grazing areas and leave the place as clean as you found it (take all your rubbish with you!).

Caving and technical activities:

The mountain range is rich in caves, but caving is not something to be undertaken lightly . Hire professional guides who will provide you with the appropriate equipment and ensure your safety.

❄️ In winter:

1. Find out about avalanche risks if you are going ski touring or snowshoeing off-piste.
2. Adapt your equipment to the conditions (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe if necessary) and never leave without good preparation.
3. Check the snow and safety reports on specialist websites (Météo France, ANENA…).

Our other destinations in the Alps :

1. Stay at the Great St. Bernard Pass
2. Stay in the Chartreuse mountain range
3. Stay in the Écrins mountain range
4. Stay in the Vercors mountain range
5. Stay in the Mercantour
6. Trip and ascent of Mont Blanc
7. Ascent of Monte Rosa
8. Stay for the ascent of Mont Viso
9. Stay at Mont Ventoux
10. Stay in the Queyras
11. Stay in the Jarjatte valley