Lakes in Savoie
Are you a nature lover planning to spend your holiday in the heart of the mountains at a campsite near Savoyard lakes, but don’t know exactly which walks to take and which lakes to discover during your stay? Don’t panic, here are a few clues for a memorable holiday!
Savoie and Haute-Savoie: breathtaking scenery
As we all know, France is renowned for its varied topography and natural scenery. And each region has its own charm and special features. The mountains of Savoie are no exception, with an abundance of splendid natural sites to discover during your stay.
One of the region’s major assets is, of course, its wealth of lakes. Whether you enjoy fishing and swimming, or prefer to enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside, you’ll be delighted by the multitude of possibilities open to you when you discover the lakes of Savoie and Haute-Savoie. From the famous Lac du Bourget, through Annecy and Aiguebelette, to the Carouge leisure park, there’s something for everyone. So set off on an adventure and discover the special features of each of the natural havens of peace in this beautiful region.
Lac du Bourget: an unmissable classic
Lac du Bourget is the largest natural lake in France. It was formed by the retreat of great glaciers over 19,000 years ago. At 18 kilometres long, its qualities lie largely in its natural, unspoilt appearance. In fact, some parts of the site are still in a wild state, making it a veritable paradise for certain animal (birds, fish, etc.) and plant species. As a result, this little corner of happiness has become a very popular tourist destination for nature lovers. Strolling along the shores of the lake or relaxing by the surrounding scenery is a great way to recharge your batteries and enjoy a revitalising holiday!
This splendid landscape is so soothing that it has inspired many artists, not least Alphonse de Lamartine, who dedicated his famous poem ‘Le Lac’ to it.
If you want to discover it a little more, you can visit Hautecombe Abbey, on the shores of Lac du Bourget. It’s an ideal place to combine culture and nature. This monastery, a real historical gem, offers a splendid view of the mountains and the lake, perfect for a stroll after a cultural visit.
Annecy, Aiguebelette, Léman: the great outdoors
Although Lac du Bourget is reputed to be the largest natural lake in France, its neighbours have nothing to be ashamed of – on the contrary. In fact, Lake Annecy is the second largest natural lake in our region. It even holds the title of ‘purest lake in Europe’. It is located right in the heart of the town of the same name. And it offers a splendid backdrop for locals and tourists alike. That’s why it’s a must-see during your stay at a campsite in Savoie.
Similarly, the Franco-Swiss Lake Geneva is a natural lake of glacial origin about 72.8 kilometres long. This makes it the largest natural alpine and sub-alpine lake in Europe. Renowned for its many activities and temperate climate, it is also one of the ideal destinations for your holidays. From water-based activities such as swimming to spa treatments in Thonon-les-Bains and Evian-les-Bains, there’s no shortage of ways to make your holiday a rewarding one! Often referred to as the ‘inland sea’, this lake allows you to sail its waters to visit our Swiss neighbours for an afternoon.
Finally, still one of Savoie’s largest lakes, discover the green waters of Lac d’Aiguebelette. Enjoy a pleasant moment in the heart of Savoyard nature. The seventh largest natural lake in France, it has been classified as the first regional freshwater nature reserve since 2015. What’s more, it benefits from a 1967 decree banning motor boats from its waters in order to preserve its wild state. These precautions make it a real natural jewel in Savoie, whose beauty you can admire during your stay.
Savoie lakes in the mountains for an idyllic natural setting
As you know, Savoie and Haute-Savoie are mountain regions with breathtaking views of pure wilderness. So what better way to enjoy these breathtaking landscapes than at a high-altitude lake?
If you’re looking for a refreshing and historic walk, you can head to Lac de Roselend, at an altitude of 1557 metres, named after a small town of the same name that was swallowed up by the waters when a dam was built in 1955. Surrounded by mountains, the highest of which reach an altitude of around 2800 metres, this little haven of peace offers a breathtaking view of mountains and valleys.
In the same vein, you’re sure to appreciate the calm of the turquoise waters of the Mont-Cenis artificial lake, located in the heart of the Savoyard mountain pastures not far from the Italian border. Situated at an altitude of more than 2000 metres, this site is full of rural activities to discover: cycling, hiking, historical visits to the region’s ancient forts, etc.
Still for lovers of the heights, you can enjoy relaxing walks in the setting of the Lessy mountain pasture lake, situated at an altitude of 1730 metres in the Aravis massif, or discover the natural site of Lac Vert, listed since 1909, renowned for the emerald green colour of its waters due to the many plants it shelters.
A leisure centre and a Savoy lake on a human scale to entertain young and old alike
Lac de Carouge is a former gravel pit that has been transformed into a leisure centre for young and old alike.
With a surface area of around 10 hectares, there’s no shortage of activities: children’s games, supervised swimming (from 1pm to 7pm), fishing, and so on. It’s a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon for all the family. What’s more, Carouge beach has been awarded the ‘blue flag’ label since 2018. It is therefore a place of very high environmental quality. So you can relax and enjoy yourself in an ideal setting.
In conclusion, when you stay at Camping du Lac de Carouge, you can visit the many lakes of Savoie.
