Exploring Lake Bourget
Located in the former Duchy of Savoie, the superb Lac du Bourget is about 18 km long and 3.5 km wide. Its deep waters, with a maximum depth of 145 metres, are rich in tasty fish, such as trout, pike-perch, pike-perch, lavaret and arctic char. The lake is dotted with numerous small harbours and pleasant beaches, with water temperatures reaching up to 26 degrees in summer. Lake Bourget has also inspired many writers, including Alphonse de Lamartine, who stayed there and wrote several pieces about it.
A famous destination of charm
The spa town of Aix-les-Bains is the symbol of this tourist craze which began in the 19th century. Stars and rulers from all over the world flock to enjoy the setting, the pure air, the luxury of the villas and palaces, the numerous festive and sporting events. To the north of the town, the footpaths of the Corsuet forest offer you beautiful escapades. In the background towards the east, the Mont Revard massif (1,538 m) stands out, where the Nordic ski resort of La Féclaz nestles.
On the lake shore, welcoming beaches and green holiday resorts follow one another. At the southern end of the lake, the picturesque village of Le Bourget-du-Lac has a cloister and a Cluniac priory dating from the 11th century. But you can also find several starred gastronomic tables there. A little further on, in Bourdeau, don’t miss the Château de Bourdeau, which has overlooked Lake Bourget since the Middle Ages, as well as the Lamartine Grotto, where the author loved to meditate.
A more intimate lakeside aspect
Very wooded and very steep, the northern bank of the Lac du Bourget has remained very wild. It is dominated by the characteristic Dent du Chat, which emerges from the forests of Mont du Chat (1,504 m). On this slope, the shady and very scenic road rises up to go around the natural obstacles, with a very beautiful view from the Notre-Dame de l'Étoile chapel.
In the middle of this bank, visit the Royal Abbey of Hautecombe, camped on the water's edge and surrounded by a few vines. Founded in the 12th century under the Cistercian, then Benedictine influence, it houses the necropolis of the reigning family of Savoy and Sardinia.
From the romantic canal to the sublime panorama
You can rent an electric boat in Charnaz, the Savoyard Venice, to sail on the bucolic Canal de Savière which links the Rhône to the Lac du Bourget.
Visible from afar, the emblematic medieval fortress of Châtillon is perched on a promontory. Behind the vineyards and marshes and the large Chautagne poplar grove stands the impressive silhouette of the Grand Colombier (1,534 m).
A cornice leads to the incomparable panoramic viewpoint of La Chambotte which reveals the whole lake and the surrounding peaks. Well sheltered, the charming vineyards of Brison-Saint-Innocent are close by with fig, olive and mimosa trees, just a few minutes from Aix-les-Bains.
Swimming and water sports
Lake Bourget is also ideal for a wide range of water sports. Sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, rowing and boating all allow you to explore its shores from the water, whilst around fifteen beaches around Lake Bourget are perfect for swimming during the summer season. To discover the lake’s main swimming spots and other sites in Savoie, check out our guide to the best swimming spots in Savoie.
The art of partying
The shores of Lac du Bourget are fertile in sporting events, music festivals, celebrations and a wide variety of cultural events. By spending your holiday at one of the campsites on the shores of Lac du Bourget, you can easily visit Chambéry, go to Lake Annecy, or wander through the valleys and peaks of the Bauges and Chartreuse massifs, protected by two regional nature parks.
Campsites near the Lac du Bourget
To make the most of your stay around Lake Bourget, there are several campsites where you can stay close to the main tourist attractions.
In Le Bourget-du-Lac, the Camping International de l’Île aux Cygnes*** enjoys a prime location on the shores of Lake Bourget. Its setting offers easy access to the beaches and water sports.
A little further afield, the Le Colombier*** campsite in Culoz is a great base for exploring the lake and the landscapes of Savoie and Ain. Situated at the foot of the Grand Colombier, it also offers the chance to enjoy the many hiking trails and outdoor activities in the surrounding area.
To discover other accommodation options, take a look at our selection of campsites around Lake Bourget.