Aix-les-Bains

Culture and Heritage of Aix-les-Bains

Aix-les-Bains is a town rich in history, which has managed to preserve and enhance its natural environment. heritage exceptional cultural heritage. Discover its treasures through its monuments iconic landmarks, captivating museums, and enriching guided tours. Here are a few must-see attractions to help you immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Aix-les-Bains.

The Faure Museum and Its Art Collection

The Faure Museum, located in the elegant 19th-century Villa des Chimères, is a renowned art treasure trove. It houses the valuable collection donated to the city of Aix-les-Bains by Jean Faure, a pharmacist with a passion for art. Among its treasures, discover theThe second-largest collection of works by Auguste Rodin in France, featuring 34 sculptures, including the iconic Thinker.

You can also admire masterpieces by impressionist painters such as Degas, Bonnard, Cézanne, Pissarro, Jongkind, and Renoir. The museum also displays a fine selection of ceramics and earthenware, and features a recreation of the bedroom of Alphonse Lamartine, the renowned poet who sought refuge in Aix-les-Bains on numerous occasions.

Temporary exhibitions regularly enrich the museum's cultural offering, in two specially designed rooms.

The Casino Grand Cercle and its architecture

Le Casino Grand Cerclethe iconic building of Aix-les-Bains since 1847, was inaugurated by Victor-Emmanuel II of Sardinia, making the town his summer residence. The building is distinguished by its sumptuous neoclassical architecture, with majestic columns, pediments and statues.

It houses an Italian-style theater with a varied program, as well as a gaming room offering slot machines, roulette, blackjack, poker and baccarat. The casino also features a tea room, restaurant and bar for relaxing moments.

The casino's interior is a true masterpiece, with its ceiling frescoes, crystal chandeliers, mosaics, and stained-glass windows, earning it the status of a historic monument in 1992.

Guided tours: in the footsteps of Lamartine

Lamartine, the emblematic poet of Lac du Bourget and the Aix-les-Bains region, stayed here eight times between 1816 and 1830. His romance with Julie Charles, the inspiration for his famous poem Le Lac, can be explored through fascinating guided tours.

Explore the key places in his life: the Perrier boarding house, where he met Julie; the Chevalley villa, where he lived; the Château de Châtillon, which welcomed him; Lamartine’s grotto, where he meditated; and the Mont-Chat chapel, a place of contemplation. You can also admire the landscapeplaces that captivated the poet, such as Lake Bourget, the Revard lookout, the Savières Canal, and Mont du Chat.

Sports and leisure activities

Aix-les-Bains, famous for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant lifestyle, is the ideal playground for sports and leisure enthusiasts. Whether your passion is hiking, golf or water sports, this town has everything to satisfy your desire for activity and entertainment.

Check out the selection of sports and recreational activities below that you can try in Aix-les-Bains.

Nature walks and hikes

Surrounded by a sumptuous natural environment, Aix-les-Bains invites you to explore through hiking and walking. Marked trails, suitable for all levels, will lead you to discover the local flora and fauna, not to mention breathtaking panoramas.

Places like the Revard belvedere, with its breathtaking views of Lac du Bourget, Mont du Chat and the Dent du Chat, or the Savières canal, connecting the lake to the Rhône, are perfect for nature breaks. Cycling enthusiasts will love the 18 km greenway running alongside the lake and the 50 km cycle route linking Aix-les-Bains to Annecy.

Where to find a vacation rental in Aix-les-Bains

Opt for a vacation rentals in Aix-les-Bains is one of the best ways to take full advantage of the Lac du Bourget while enjoying a comfortable and flexible setting. This renowned spa resort offers a wide range of accommodations, from studios with lake views to upscale apartments located in the city center or on the hillside. The neighborhoods near the lakefront promenade are particularly popular for their direct access to beaches and water sports.

To find the most beautiful vacation cottages and accommodations in Aix-les-Bains, read our dedicated article here.

Aix-les-Bains Golf Course: between the lake and Mountain

The Aix-les-Bains Golf Courselocated in a green setting 3 km from the town center, offers amateurs and amateurs alike an exceptional 18-hole course, stretching over 45 hectares between lake and mountain. With its varied, technical layout, it is suitable for all levels of play.

Qualified professionals offer top-quality teaching to support each player's progress. The site also boasts all the facilities you need to play golf: driving range, putting green, pitching green, practice bunker, as well as a clubhouse with bar, restaurant and panoramic terrace.

Local sporting events not to be missed

Aix-les-Bains vibrates to the rhythm of local sporting events throughout the year, offering both entertainment and opportunities to participate. Don't miss the Lac du Bourget International Triathlon in June, the Lac du Bourget Marathon in October, the Festival de la Voile in September, and the Lac du Bourget Trail in November, for unique sporting experiences.

Useful links for visiting Aix-les-Bains

General Information & Tourism

• 👉 Official tourist office :
  https://www.aixlesbains-rivieradesalpes.com/
  (Activities, events, accommodation, calendar)

• 👉 City of Aix-les-Bains :
  https://www.aixlesbains.fr/
  (Practical information, services, local news)

Must-See Activities & Attractions

• 👉 Lake Bourget (info & activities):
  https://www.aixlesbains-rivieradesalpes.com/decouvrir/le-lac-du-bourget/

• 👉 Hautecombe Abbey :
  https://www.hautecombe.org/

• 👉 Mont Revard (hiking & panoramic views):
  https://www.savoie-mont-blanc.com/offre/activites/le-revard/

• 👉 Thermes Chevalley (spa & wellness):
  https://www.valvital.fr/-aix-les-bains-chevalley-

Sports & Outdoor Activities

• 👉 Bike rental / itineraries :
  https://www.rivieradesalpes.com/a-velo/

• 👉 Hiking around Aix-les-Bains :
  https://www.visorando.com/randonnee-aix-les-bains.html

• 👉 Water sports (Lac du Bourget) :
  https://www.aqualac.fr/

Access & transport

• 👉 SNCF (trains to Aix-les-Bains) :
  https://www.sncf-connect.com/

• 👉 Ondéa bus (local network) :
  https://www.ondea-bus.fr/

Restaurants & Nightlife

• 👉 Restaurant guide (Tripadvisor) :
  https://www.tripadvisor.fr/Restaurants-g187260-Aix_les_Bains_Savoie_Auvergne_Rhone_Alpes.html

• 👉 Good local addresses :
  https://www.petitfute.com/v36072-aix-les-bains-73100/

Lodgings

Calendar & Events

• 👉 Official agenda :
  https://www.aixlesbains-rivieradesalpes.com/agenda/

• 👉 Local festivals and events :
  https://www.savoie-mont-blanc.com/festivals-et-evenements/

Maps & Directions

• 👉 Google Maps (city map) :
  https://www.google.com/maps/place/Aix-les-Bains

Conclusion

Aix-les-Bains, a charming cityWith a full range of activities to satisfy all your desires, whether for relaxation, culture, nature or sport. Explore the benefits of its famous thermal baths, sail on the waters of Lac du Bourget - France's largest natural lake, climb the Revard mountain to admire breathtaking views, discover artistic treasures at the Faure museum, try your luck at the Grand Cercle casino while appreciating its remarkable architecture, follow in the footsteps of Lamartine on guided tours, play golf in an exceptional setting between lake and mountains, and don't miss the exciting local sporting events.

Don't delay, plan your trip to Aix-les-Bains now and let yourself be seduced by the unique charm of this spa town.

FAQ

Where to go for a walk in Aix-les-Bains?

In Aix-les-Bains, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to walks. Two places you won't want to miss are:

• Lac du Bourget: France's largest natural lake invites you to relax with its water sports activities, fishing opportunities and walks along the cycle path. Don't miss the breathtaking view from the Chambotte lookout.
• Mount Revard: Accessible by car or cable car, this peak offers a commanding view of Aix-les-Bains and the lake. Ideal for hiking, the ski, paragliding, or simply to marvel at the panoramic view of the Alps.

Why go to Aix-les-Bains?

Aix-les-Bains is a destination of choice for its natural hot springs, beneficial to health and well-being. The town is also rich in historical and cultural heritage, with must-see sites such as Hautecombe Abbey and the Grand Cercle Casino.

What is the most beautiful beach in Aix-les-Bains?

Aix beach stands out as the most beautiful in Aix-les-Bains. This vast sandy beach offers splendid views of Lac du Bourget and the surrounding mountains. Perfect for families, it offers shallow water and inflatable games for the enjoyment of young and old alike.

What is Aix-les-Bains known for?

Savoyard fondue is the signature dish of Aix-les-Bains. This convivial dish, made with melted cheese into which pieces of bread are dipped, showcases three cheeses from Savoie: Beaufort, Reblochon, and Comté.