Aix les Bains & Lac du Bourget, Savoie Resort
Alpine Lake, Thermal Spa, Adelphia & Le Manoir Hotels
Nov 11, 2009
Set on a natural lake framed by the Alp and Jura mountains, north of Chambéry, Aix les Bains is an attractive Savoie resort, easy to explore on foot. There are Roman remains, including temple and baths, stepped alleyways, cobbled lanes draped in flowers and grand buildings from the Belle Epoque. The Royal Baths opened in the 18th century attracted high society from all over Europe.
The town offers a good choice of hotels and for a great bird’s eye view of the resort, visitors can take the lift to the 7th floor of the Tourist Information Centre.
Aix les Bains Thermal Spa
Aix les Bains thermal waters are pumped up deep below the ground and emerge 100% pure in the sister buildings of the thermal spa, or Thermes Nationaux. The 19th century Pellegrini centre has lots of atmosphere, with an Art Deco hall and the Aga Khan mosaic suite, while the Chevalley centre claims state of the arts facilities in an ultra modern décor.
The Thermes offer medical treatments, mostly to relieve arthritis and rheumatism, and well being options, also available in a number of hotels. These range from zen to rejuvenating or energising rituals and depending on the venue are based on fresh or thermal water.
There are guided tours to the hot spring cave where patients were once lowered down from the top into the steaming pool.
Lac du Bourget, Alpine Lake and Wildlife
Lac du Bourget is the largest natural lake in France, with 70% of its area preserved wild for water birds and plants. The lake attracts herons and crested grebes, tufted ducks, cormorants, swans and coots. Among others are the 124 species of birds roosting in a poplar wood, lots of butterflies and more fish varieties than in any other French lake. Beavers can be seen at dusk along the canal de Savière which links the lake to the Rhone river.
There are hiking trails, sailing, canoeing and swimming opportunities, and a scenic circular drive, taking in the lovely Abbey of Hautecombe and hamlets offering Savoie wine tasting among the vineyards.
Hotels in Aix les Bains, Savoie Resort
Le Manoir is a three star boutique hotel close to the Thermes Chevalley. Rooms and suites are cosy, furnished in warm shades of orange, red and gold, overlooking the countryside or lush private grounds. There’s an attractive flower courtyard and a spa with indoor pool, hammam, sauna and well being rituals. The restaurant serves a gourmet menu with Savoie specialities, on the terrace or by the open fire.
The modern three star Adelphia is near the marina, boasting 55 rooms and 11 suites with views of the lake or Mont Revard. Dining options range from the poolside café to the panoramic restaurant where the menu features fish from the lake and Savoie cheeses. Hammam, sauna, fitness centre, beauty parlour and boutique complete the picture.
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