Le Bourget du Lac - Aix les Bains
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AIX-LES-BAINS
The name Aix-les-Bains (originally Allobrogum Aquae Gratianae) has always had a mythical ring to it. Difficult to say to what the city owes its reputation. Perhaps it is due to its lakeside accommodations, its sulfurous waters which were well-renown since Antiquity, and its affiliation to the ancient ruling family: the House of Savoy. Or it might also be due to the Bourget Lake which was immortalized by Alphonse de Lamartine, and the numerous celebrities, such as Henry IV, Alexander Dumas, the Duchess of Castries, Madame de Mazarin, Victor-Emmanuel 1st and Honoré de Balzac, who spent time visiting the city.
Henry IV had a never-ending conflict with the Duke of Savoie. However, he ended up breezing through the Savoie as more of a tourist than a conqueror. Chambéry, which was weakly fortified, quickly capitulated. And when the King moved on towards Annecy, his first stop was in Aix. Before leaving the city, he visited it and "having seen the Baths one after another, he dismounted his horse to go to the big Bath, where, with several princes of his court, he bathed and washed during one hour with as much happiness as if he was taking part in the world's greatest delight. A fact to which he testified by spreading word that none of the baths from Paris, to France or even Europe were as good as those of Aix."
In the beginning of the 17th century, the doctor Jean-Baptiste de Cabias wrote his book: "The Wonders of the Baths in Aix, Savoie".
Following this, people came to the city from Lyon, Bourgogne, the Piedmont, Forez, the Lorraine, etc. and you could count up to a thousand people visiting at a time.
People went to the waters as a family, the roads were improved, hotels sprang up, and during the second half of the 17th century one could come from France to Aix by carriage; soon the road to Italy would be suitable for carriages right up to the Mont-Cenis Pass. The Aix baths welcomed visitors from high society such as the Duke of Lesdiguières, who came almost every year for 10 years.
In Savoie, the counter-reformation was embodied by François de Sales, a noble member of the church, who was later canonized. Not only did he open the way for the Catholic conquest of the Chablais in 1594, but he also managed to revive a church that was in free decline. The diocese of Geneva-Annecy was often visited, the populace was preached to constantly, and their public figures reached a level of spirituality that had rarely been observed. Thus he led a true political counter-reformation against the Genevan New Rome. This renewed Catholic strength remained an important part of the Savoie identity throughout the 17th century.
After the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685, the passage through Aix was very important for refugees as it offered justification for their presence in the region. If arrested, refugees were advised to say "We are going to the waters of Aix for my wife and children..." or "We're simply on our way back from Aix..." (From the Journal de Jean Giraud, de La Grave who joined the exile of the Dauphinois starting in Montmélian/Les Marches. He found refuge in Vevey, Switzerland in 1686 and wrote about his journey in order to offer advice to his coreligionists).
In 1686, a majority of Europe joined together against Louis XIV of France due to his strength. The alliance was known as the League of Augsburg. It was at this moment that the new ruler of Piedmont-Savoie, Victor-Amédée II, decided to free himself of French control. The consequence of this choice was another French occupation of the Savoie from 1690 to 1696. The Treaty of Turin of August 19th,1696 forced the Duke to rejoin the French and marry his daughter to the Duke of Bourgogne. The Savoie then suffered a number of tumultuous years during the War of Spanish Succession. It was occupied once again by France from 1703 to 1713 when the French lost their reputation as easy-going conquerors. During this occupation, France put in place what resembled a pure and simple annexation of the region. The Treaties of Utrecht (1713) reversed this course and restored the Savoie to the House of Savoy. Following this, Victor-Amédée II received the crown of Sicily, which he exchanged with Sardinia in 1720 after the Treaty of London of 1718.
Source: Pierre Bolle, Exposé sur le tracé de l’exil des Huguenots du Dauphiné, Die 2008. La vie d’autrefois à Aix-les-Bains by Gabriel Pérouse in the Collection edited by M.-G. Micberth – Monographies des villes et villages de France.
Tourist information
Le Jardin Vagabond Aix-les-Bains
This restless garden, rich in wild, self-seeding plants, is open to everyone.
Visite guidée : Les Palaces des Coteaux Aix-les-Bains
Aix time capsule. Discovery of the prestigious Royal-Splendide-Excelsior complex, formerly a Palace in Aix built by the Rossignoli family, considered to be at the forefront of modernity at the time and magnificently decorated.
Aix-les-Bains
Route : - Place de la mairie - Thermal Park - Grand Hotel - Casino
The Château de Tresserve Tresserve
This 16th century château is a prestigious venue. It has been entirely rebuilt, respecting its authentic features. It has been tastefully renovated, both in the choice of materials and decoration, as well as in the landscaping of the one hectare park.
Be Fit Aix-les-Bains
Discover fun and accessible water sports, anchored in the values of well-being and health that are specific to Aix les Bains Riviera des Alpes.
Guided tour: Aix by the lake: the small port Aix-les-Bains
During this walk, discover the Petit Port district, where the Art Deco architecture of major buildings such as the Beach and the Aquarium are concentrated, as well as the history of the development of the shores of the lake.
Aqualis, lake experiment Aix-les-Bains
Nestled in the heart of a typical building of the 30s, Aqualis welcomes you in a unique universe dedicated to the largest natural lake in France: Lake Bourget.
Aix on the Lake: the Grand Port Aix-les-Bains
Set off to discover the history of the Grand Port of Aix
Aix on the Lake: the Petit Port Aix-les-Bains
Come and admire the architecture of the Petit Port
Château Thomas II at the Lac du Bourget Aix-les-Bains
Tour the Château Thomas II at the Lac du Bourget.
The Priory and the Château Thomas II Aix-les-Bains
Complete tour of the Priory and the Château which are connected by a small pedestrian path.
Bourget du Lac Priory Aix-les-Bains
Visit the Bourget du Lac Priory, founded in the 11th century.
In the Footsteps of the English Aix-les-Bains
Tour in the footsteps of the English in Aix-les-Bains.
Aix in the "Golden Age" Aix-les-Bains
Visit the prestigious spa town of Aix-les-Bains during the "Golden Age".
Gallo-Roman Aix Aix-les-Bains
Immersive tour of the Gallo-Roman past of the city of Aix-les-Bains.
Faure Museum Aix-les-Bains
In this discreet villa in the heart of the city, you will never guess what discoveries you will make.
Aix Panorama Aix-les-Bains
Complete tour by coach of the different facets of the City of Art and History.
Aix Heritage/Aix By Night Aix-les-Bains
Discovery of the historic heart of the city from the Roman period until today.
Japanese Garden Aix-les-Bains
Located on the Avenue Charles de Gaulle in the Parc du Casino, the Japanese Garden is designed for meditation and may be contemplated from the outside.
Hôtel Astoria Aix-les-Bains
This hotel was built in 1904-05 to replace the Hôtel de l'Arc Romain. Its owner, Monsieur Petit, used the renovation of the square after the demolition of the Eglise Notre Dame to built a new, more impressive building.
Château de La Roche Du Roi Aix-les-Bains
This Château was built in 1897. It is a combination of different influences and styles, with its 4 corner turrets, central keep and magnificent 'art nouveau' decor. Please note that this is a private residence.
Parc des Thermes Aix-les-Bains
Located in the city-centre, the Parc des Thermes provides one of the most beautiful walks in the city, with its 100-year-old trees and a variety of blooms every season.
Grand Cercle Casino (Heritage site) Aix-les-Bains
Construction for the building began in 1847, and it was fully renovated in 1988. A place for celebrating and having fun, enjoying music and theatre, the Casino, frequently renovated, has retained its stunning original "Golden Age" decor, with stained glass windows and mosaics.
Esplanade du Lac Aix-les-Bains
On the edge of the Lac du Bourget, between the Grand Port and the Petit Port, an 8-hectare area is reserved for strolling and picnics, with stunning views over the lake and the Dent du Chat. Games, rides and refreshments are all available.
Faure Museum CLOSED Aix-les-Bains
The Museum is closed, to reopen in early 2027 under a new identity: La Villa-Collection d'art.
Art nouveau and Art déco guided tour Aix-les-Bains
Between 1890 and 1930, Aix transformed itself as spa treatments for the very wealthy took off. Luxury hotels, villas bloom, decorated with rich decorations incorporating the innovative trends of the time. Discover these 2 decorative art trends on foot.
Casino Grand Cercle guided tour Aix-les-Bains
Historical and architectural presentation of the building. Recalling the history of gambling in Aix-les-Bains. Tour of the rooms, the theatre and its foyer and the mosaic ceilings. Smart dress required. ID required.
Guided tour of The Gardens Aix-les-Bains
For a very long time Aix-les-Bains has cared for its flowers. The walk lets shows you the thermal baths park, the Japanese garden and private gardens.
Arch of Campanus Aix-les-Bains
Located in front of the buildings of the old national thermal baths, the Arch of Campanus is an important testament to the rich Roman history of Aix-les-Bain. It was built by L. Pompeius Campanus to honour the departed members of his family.
La Grande Mollière Belvedere Tresserve
A panoramic and educational lookout over the Lac du Bourget.
Bois Vidal Aix-les-Bains
A wood in the middle of the city for pleasant strolls and moments of relaxation.
Church of Notre Dame d'Aix-les-Bains Aix-les-Bains
Opened in 1899, the current church was built in the Roman-Byzantine style by the architect Arthur Berlin. Its eastern wall is illuminated by stained-glass windows made by Bégule, a master glass-maker from Lyon, some based on the designs of Eugène Grasset.
Town Hall 'The Château of the Marquis d'Aix' Aix-les-Bains
The reconstruction of the current building began at the beginning of the 15th century by the Seyssel family. Various renovations followed until the end of the 17th century, in particular the stairway built just before 1600. It became the Town Hall when it was purchased in 1866.
The Lac du Bourget Aix-les-Bains
The Lac du Bourget is the biggest natural lake in France. Beautiful all year round, it is the real gem of the destination of Aix les Bains Riviera des Alpes.
The Temple of Diana Aix-les-Bains
This Roman ruin known as the "Temple of Diana", is located inside the Town Hall. The inside of the temple and its collection of archaeological artefacts can be visited only as part of the "Balade dans Aix" guided tour.
Le cumul des deux étapes pour Aix-les-Bains est possible, sans négliger la visite d'Aix en fin d'étape. Pas de dénivelé, mais beaucoup de goudron (véloroute, bord de lac, ...). Bon hébergement à Aix à l'hôtel Colibri près du centre. Le hors-chemin se justifie.
Pour ma part hébergement dans un Airbnb avenue de Tresserve, charmant petit appartement pour 3 à 5 personnes, très bon Accueil, extrêmement propre, de quoi cuisiner, etc.... Et pas très cher. Par contre toujours beaucoup de manque de balises....
J'ai pris un hébergement aux Meublés des Côteaux d'Aix. Un endroit calme, bien placé. Un logement fonctionnel et agréable.
Hébergement à Aix les Bains : Auberge de jeunesse. Accueil chaleureux, chambre (lit confortable) et sanitaire très propre. Possibilité de cuisiné sur place. Très bon rapport qualité/prix. Petit plus à proximité du chemin.
Bon plan repas du soir (à proximité A.J) : Le Riva nouveau propriaitaire depuis 6 mois. Le couple (cuisinier et serveuse) très accueillant. Le chef prend palisir à cuisiner avec des produits frais. J'ai passé un agréable moment.
Vous pouvez participer à la qualité de cette rubrique ! Merci d’alerter l’Office du tourisme de l’étape des données erronées que vous auriez constatées.
Tourist Offices
Accommodation Partners 
Other Accommodations
Bed & breakfastAix-les-Bains
La Cigale et la Fourmi, a characterful guest house located 700 meters from Lake Bourget, offers 2 exceptional rooms (1 family and one PMR) in the main house. You can enjoy the many outdoor facilities including the swimming pool and its equipped beach, the giant power 4, the children's games and the large, nicely landscaped garden. Among its assets: its adjoining wooden beach, its large landscaped garden, access to the shared swimming pool and its ideal location 700 meters from Lake Bourget, the multitude of activities to practice nearby (between alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, nautical activities, hydrotherapy, etc.).
Aix-traordinaire Bed & breakfastAix-les-Bains
In a bourgeois house dating from 1902, located on the outskirts of Aix-les-Bains, we offer two magnificent rooms on the first floor, with a completely private bathroom and toilet. Swimming pool 8 x 3, several terraces
L'Incomparable Hotel - restaurantTresserve
High in a wooded park, L'Incomporable overlooks Lake Bourget, surrounded by mountains. Ideally located, it is a delight for the senses and has an authentic and individual luxury. Let yourself be guided...
Golden Tulip Aix les Bains Hotel - restaurantAix-les-Bains
Near the Lac du Bourget, between Lyon, Geneva and Turin, the 4-star Hotel Le Golden TulipAix les Bains upscale services and its ideal location in the city-centre, 200 m from the train station.
Camping-Cars Park Aix-les-Bains Riviera des Alpes Camper van service/reception areaAix-les-Bains
Camping-car park: 85 level pitches, just 100m from the Bourget lake, between the lake and the mountains.
Sierroz International Campsite CampsiteAix-les-Bains
Ideally located opposite the lake and close to the Grand Port with its restaurants and beaches, bordered by a river from which it takes its name, this campsite offers pleasant, shady grounds.
Ibis Styles Hotel Domaine de Marlioz HotelAix-les-Bains
Between the lake and the mountains, the Ibis Styles Hotel in Aix-les-Bains welcomes you with its 100 comfortable rooms, wifi and breakfast included in the price.
Marlioz Villa Hotel - restaurantAix-les-Bains
3-star hotel and SPA, Marlioz Villa is near the city-centre, set in a park. 80 spacious rooms and free wifi access.
Les Loges du Park Tourist residenceAix-les-Bains
Equipped with kitchenettes, microwaves and refrigerators, the studios and suites at the 3-star Loges du Park are ideally suited to combine comfort and convenience.
Noémys Viviers du Lac HotelViviers-du-Lac
A few minutes from the peaks of Savoy and close to the shores of the Lac du Bourget, this hotel is a real source of calm and vitality. With 40 rooms and simple decor, it offers all the comfort of a 2-star hotel.
Hôtel l'Iroko HotelAix-les-Bains
This charming hotel will captivate you with its original decor, the quality of its services and the warm welcome from Véroique and her team. For business or leisure, you will enjoy this unique lakeside environment.
Mercure Domaine de Marlioz Hôtel & Spa Hotel - restaurantAix-les-Bains
In the middle of a 10-hectare park between the lake and the mountains, the Mercure Hotel in Aix-les-Bains welcomes you for your business or leisure trips.
Urban Hôtel HotelAix-les-Bains
Located in the city-centre of Aix-les-Bains, close to the convention centre, the casino, the thermal baths and the Parc de Verdure. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere of the rooms, the wellness area (indoor pool, sauna and steam room) and the garage.
Hôtel Gallia Hotel - restaurantAix-les-Bains
The Gallia hotel is located on the heights of Aix-les-Bains, close to the Chevalley thermal baths, 7 minutes walk from the city center, the TGV train station and close to all the popular places such as the Congress Center, the Grand Cercle Casino, the Bourget Lake.
Adelphia Hotel Hotel - restaurantAix-les-Bains
On the shores of the impressive Lac du Bourget, the largest natural lake in France, at the foot of Mont Revard and opposite the Dent du Chat, the Adelphia Hotel and its integrated balneotherapy centre enjoy an exceptional location.
Les Alpes Hotel Hotel - restaurantAix-les-Bains
Located in the heart of the city, you can enjoy the architectural tours as well as the casino and you can relax at the Parc de Verdure, all located a few meters from the hotel.
Les Eaux Hotel Hotel - restaurantAix-les-Bains
A character hotel located in the city-centre, with a garden and private parking.
Les Bains Hotel Hotel - restaurantAix-les-Bains
Les Bains Hotel is located in the city-centre, facing the Parc de Verdure, close to the Tourism Office. A family hotel, ideal for spa treatments: full board, light cuisine.
La Grotte Hotel Hotel - restaurantAix-les-Bains
Warm, family atmosphere. Traditional and balanced cuisine. Bright and sunny rooms. Closest hotel-restaurant** to the thermal baths.
La Couronne Hotel Hotel - restaurantAix-les-Bains
Our hotel is located in the heart of the pedestrian area, between the old thermal baths, the casino and the conference centre. Municipal underground parking nearby (50 m). Close to the shops and public transport. Authentic 18th century hotel.
Le Colibri Hotel HotelAix-les-Bains
Family hotel located in the town centre, close to all the amenities: 200m from the casino, 10 minutes from the thermal baths, 200m from the train station. The size of the hotel guarantees a friendly welcome.
Restaurants
Ôlive Pizzeria RestaurantAix-les-Bains
Located steps away from the Esplanade du Lac, the "Ô Ôlive Pizzeria’ offers delicious pizzas as well as a small menu of salads and dishes, all fresh and homemade. Flavour and friendliness await you!
Carré d'As RestaurantAix-les-Bains
Creative local cuisine inspired by fresh seasonal produce.
La Table Floralie RestaurantAix-les-Bains
At Table Floralie, we warmly welcome you to an intimate cocoon of 25 place settings, where conviviality, comfort, generosity and refinement are our watchwords. You'll be pampered and made to feel unique.
L'Azilium RestaurantTresserve
A traditional restaurant for a tasty break in a cosy atmosphere. Facing the lake on the Riviera des Alpes, the chef's fusion cuisine will delight your taste buds with his special menus ,à la carte or daily menus during the week.
Le Rigadin RestaurantAix-les-Bains
Le Rigadin : Traditional restaurant in the heart of town. Discover a generous, gourmet and responsible cuisine.
Faisan de Colchide - Georgian Restaurant RestaurantAix-les-Bains
A gastronomic journey to Georgia in the heart of Aix-les-Bains.
Le Sens Unique RestaurantAix-les-Bains
A gourmet bistronomic restaurant & respectful as well as its wine bar where you will be proposed a very nice selection of wines and delicacies to share...
Café des Bains RestaurantAix-les-Bains
An old bistro with a friendly and warm atmosphere ... Here, we cultivate the tradition of homemade cooking and pastries with fresh, quality products. Beautiful terrace.
Food Truck Õ Séquoia Food truckAix-les-Bains
Enjoy yourself at the Food Truck in the Domaine de Marlioz park with delicious homemade burgers and fresh chips, eat on-site or take away.
Snack du Rowing RestaurantAix-les-Bains
By the water, access via the beach in a swimsuit and on foot or by bike along the lakeside promenade, shaded terrace, peaceful!
La Mélodie Gourmande RestaurantAix-les-Bains
La Mélodie Gourmande, your friendly gathering, around creative cuisine.
La Table de L'Incomparable Restaurant Hotel-RestaurantTresserve
High in a wooded park, the L'Incomparable overlooks Lake Bourget, surrounded by mountains, in a setting dedicated to gourmet luxury. The gastronomic restaurant invites you on a journey, let yourself be surprised...
Brasserie de l'Aquarium RestaurantAix-les-Bains
Bar, restaurant with exceptional terrace facing the lake. French and international cuisine based on fresh produce.
La Dent du Chat Hotel-RestaurantAix-les-Bains
Villa Marlioz welcomes you to its restaurant, with large bay windows opening onto the wooded garden and a superb view of the Dent du Chat summit !
Crêperie du Port RestaurantAix-les-Bains
The Crêperie du Port welcomes you with enthusiasm in an authentic and warm setting. The 100% buckwheat pancakes and other wheat pancakes are cooked with fresh quality products.
Restaurant du Golf RestaurantAix-les-Bains
In a lush green setting, the Restaurant du Golfe welcomes you at lunchtimes with its daily market produce and buffet, and offers more refined cuisine on Friday and Saturday evenings. Open to all. Open 7 days a week
Le San Fermin RestaurantAix-les-Bains
Lunch, dinner, a relaxing break by the lake? Come and enjoy quality products, Savoyard and south-western specialities, frogs' legs and lake fish, delicate meats. Beautiful view of the lake and Dent du Chat.
Crêperie des Alpes RestaurantAix-les-Bains
In a cosy, cocooning atmosphere, we take care of you by offering you tastings of authentic, fresh, local products bio-cooked instantly by the chef in the middle of the dining room.
Le Chantemerle RestaurantAix-les-Bains
Traditional cuisine with self-service, overlooking the Lac du Bourget and Aix les Bains.
Leo-Paul Restaurant RestaurantAix-les-Bains
In an elegant Belle Epoque style setting, succumb to the pleasures of Chef Gilles BLONAY’s gourmet cuisine. The promise of a subtle and generous gastronomic journey.
Bistrot du Port RestaurantAix-les-Bains
Renowned for its lakeside location, warm atmosphere, inspired and generous cuisine, the Bistrot du Port welcomes you for a culinary journey rich in flavors.
Les Voiles RestaurantAix-les-Bains
Brasserie and pizzeria with lake views. Menu includes pizzas, meat, fish and some Savoy specialities.
L'Alchimiste - Hôtel Golden Tulip Hotel-RestaurantAix-les-Bains
L'Alchimiste welcomes you in a cosy and warm atmosphere, totally renovated. Our chef serves dishes that combine local produce and tradition.
Feets in water Hotel-RestaurantViviers-du-Lac
Take the time to relax in front of the lake in an exceptional setting around our famous perch, giant prawns and fried fish - and for meat lovers, a good steak with pepper or morel sauce, beef ribs or our kabobs.
La Rotonde RestaurantAix-les-Bains
La Rotonde, a local institution since 1933, welcomes you to the heart of the Parc de Verdure in a unique Art Deco setting. Enjoy a bright room, a cosy lounge area and a shady terrace for cocktails, tapas and gourmet dishes!
Délices d’ Adelphia Hotel-RestaurantAix-les-Bains
Seasonal products and delicious cooking in a friendly atmosphere.
Restaurant Biõz Hotel-RestaurantAix-les-Bains
A bistronomic, inventive, and refined cuisine, with fresh and gourmet dishes highlighting local products. Warmth, generosity, and enjoyment for a business dinner, a romantic evening, or a family brunch.
Restaurant Bar Lounge La Plage d'Aix RestaurantAix-les-Bains
Restaurant, bar, rooftop lounge 'La Plage'. An exceptional setting by day and by night.
Brasserie Le Skiff RestaurantAix-les-Bains
Brasserie Le Skiff is your gourmet lakeside stopover: Sunny cocktails, generous seafood, tasty dishes, exquisite desserts. Your oasis of flavour, all year round.
Le Chalet du Coucou RestaurantTresserve
A restaurant in an atypical setting on the Lac du Bourget. More than a restaurant, it's a curiosity, with your meal punctuated by the clocks chiming "cuckoo"!
les Quais RestaurantAix-les-Bains
Brasserie with shaded terrace and lake views. Traditional cuisine with meat, fish, Savoy specialities and lake dishes.
