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La Bonne Vie
Alpine chalet in Le Massif des Bauges
The chalet provides a great base in the summer months for a quiet, restful holiday or one with an endless list of activities.
The well-maintained, hilly roads with their stunning views make this area a favourite with cyclists of all ages and abilities. You will find many marked bike routes throughout the region and maps are available from the tourist office in Le Chatelard. There is a purpose built bike path that runs alongside Lake Annecy which is mostly flat, however if you wish to do the complete circuit (36km) you will encounter some more challenging climbs. The route passes through the attractive villages of Sevrier, Saint-Jorioz, Duingt and Doussard. Everyone goes at their own pace and it is a great way to see the lake.
Summer is a perfect time for a hike enjoying nature at its best. Favourite walks include the Revard plateau, Bellevaux valley and the area around La Féclaz, especially the climb to the scenic Nivolet Cross high above Chambéry.
This is superb walking country and with the Massif des Bauges on your doorstep there are walks and hiking trails to suit everyone. The tourist office stocks local walking maps with recommended trails.
A day spent in Annecy is a day well spent.
Stroll among the whimsical canals of Annecy. Dubbed the 'Venice of the Alps,’ the winding cobblestone streets lined by pastel houses and bright flower boxes will make you fall in love with this small French town. Stop for a croissant at a bakery, or sit and have a coffee and spend the afternoon people-watching and admiring the architecture.
Shop in the market, the Sunday market is the best in France, grab some baguettes and cheese and have a picnic in The European Gardens. Wander over Annecy’s Love Bridge, Pont des Amours. Legend has it that if two lovers kiss on the bridge, they will stay together forever.
La Feclaz is a popular playground for families and sports enthusiasts. The excellent forest adventure is at 1500m and suitable for ages 4 and up.
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The Centre Equestre des Bauges (Riding Centre) at nearby Lescheraines (6km) offers multi-day treks, courses and lessons to suit all abilities starting from 3 years of age.
Visit the Palais de l’Isle, now a local history museum, it was once a prison, mint, courthouse, and Lord’s residence. Stop to take a picture of the outside. Indeed, it is one of France’s most photographed attractions.
Spend a day at the beach, there are plenty of sandy or grass beaches dotted along the picturesque lake. A swim in the crystal clear waters will refresh you or if you prefer to be on the water, hire a paddle-boat and leisurely make your way around the lake.
If a round of golf appeals, this is possible from April to October at Annecy and Aix les Bains. The course at Annecy is right next to the lake.
The Bauges offers many opportunities for adventure. Terres d’Altitude is based in Le Chatelard and can arrange canyoning, Aquarando (a mix of hiking and swimming in a canyon or river) and mountain climbing/Via Ferrata. If you want to go further afield, the white water rafting in the Tarentaise Valley near Bourg Saint Maurice, (98km / 90mins), has been tried and tested and is a great day out.
Zip line, monkey bridges and nets at Les Aillons/Margeriaz 1000, smaller course (ages 4-10) Télésiège des Rochettes taking you to the top of the mountain for walking or mountain biking down again.
​Caving at Margeriaz exploring the fantastic pothole and glacier trail.
Hang gliding and paragliding, there are many take off points locally or glide over Annecy lake, an amazing experience.
Aix-les-Bains (33km) a thermal spa town on Lake Bourget. Mont Revard provides a scenic backdrop to the town. Swimming, sailing and golf are popular sports. Landmarks include the Roman ruin, Temple of Diana, in the town hall and the Château de la Roche du Roi. The Abbaye d'Hautecombe, on the opposite shore of the lake, is a 12th-century royal burial site. Aix-les-Bains also has excellent beaches along its shore line for swimming and sunbathing. And there is a nice flat cycle route from Aqualac public swimming pool round to the Port de Plaisance (9km one way)
More information and recommendations available at the chalet. Christine at the tourist office in Le Chatelard who speaks good English is always happy to help. Tourist office opening times.
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