We may not have the sea, but we have something better! Of course, we’ve got Lyon’s bouchons, traboules, exceptional hidden spots, natural treasures similar to the Caribbean, and so many wonderful things in and around Lyon! But above all, only 1h30 away, there’s Lac du Bourget!A true natural gem nestled in Savoie, it isthe largest natural lake of glacial origin entirely located in France (unlike Lake Geneva, for example, we know you’ve thought of it). With a length of 18 kilometers, a surface area of 44.5 km² and an impressive depth of 145 meters, this exceptional site offers a breath of fresh air, relaxation and adventure in a spectacular Alpine setting! What more could you ask for?
A great lake, full of views and full of life
Formed 19,000 years ago following the last ice age, Lac du Bourget is bordered to the west by the Jura massif and to the east by the Bauges (the best of both worlds). To give you an idea of this simply magnificent landscape, steep banks plunge into turquoise water worthy of the most beautiful summer destinations. And the best part? The water can reach 28°C in summer, making the lake a popular spot for swimming, lounging or water sports!
If you’d like to see more, we suggest you take a trip up to the lake. Breathtaking panoramas await you from the belvederes of La Chambotte, Le Revard andOntex. Here you can admire spectacular views of the lake and Hautecombe Abbey. At any time of day, these viewpoints reveal the raw, poetic beauty of this listed site. Don’t hesitate to take a few souvenir photos of your little group!
As well as being a must-see for lovers of beautiful scenery, Lac du Bourget is also a sanctuary for biodiversity. The reed beds that border it are home to great crested grebes, swans and ducks, as well as the protected cistude tortoise. If you’re a keen explorer, theAigrettes observatory is an excellent spot for discreetly observing this wildlife.
A multitude of activities for unique experiences
Did you think you’d covered everything you could do at the lake? Well, you haven’t! Lac du Bourget is also home to a wide variety of water-based activities, including boat cruises, stand-up paddling, canoeing, sailing, water skiing and even yoga on a paddle (note that you don’t have to be afraid of getting wet). Families will also find plenty to do at Aqualac, a leisure center with swimming pool and direct access to the lake! This unique place is also linked to Savoyard history and culture (yes, you can eat fondue). In fact, we’re obliged to mention Alphonse de Lamartine, who immortalized the place in his famous poem Le Lac (the poem is too long to include in our article, but it’s well worth reading and re-reading)!
Fancy a getaway combining nature, panoramic views and relaxation? Lac du Bourget is the ideal destination for Lyonnais in search of the great outdoors and (let’s not forget) France’s largest natural lake! Whether you’re a hiker, a chill-out enthusiast, a nature lover or a water sports enthusiast, this corner of Savoyard paradise has everything to seduce you.