Around lakes Bourget & Aiguebelette
The largest lake & the warmest one
Straddling the Rhone Valley, the bucolic hills and dales of the Avant Pays Savoyard are covered by a patchwork of forests, fields and vineyards. To the east, the sparkling and romantic waters of Lake Bourget lap against the shores of Aix-les-Bains, a spa town and resort that has been awarded the prestigious "France Station Nautique" label.
On the wilder western shore of the lake, the steeply forested slopes of the Dent du Chat plunge into the waters of the lake, ensuring seclusion and tranquillity for the beautiful Hautecombe Abbey.
North of the lake, around the Savières Canal, lie the alluvial plains of La Chautagne, an area that is renowned for its gastronomy and its wines.
Ontex: Mini-circuit
District: Ontex
Region: Bourget Aix
Road access and parking: From Le Bourget du Lac, follow the road towards the Tunnel du Chat for 3 km, and then turn left towards the Col du Chat. Just before the Col, turn right to head towards Hautecombe/La Chapelle du Mont du Chat. Follow this road to the car park at Le Grumeau.
Total time, not including rest stops: 2hrs
Maps and guides: IGN Top 25 n° 3332 OT Chambéry
Start height: 608 m
Highest point: 819 m
Height difference: 211 m
Type of itinerary: (circuit, round trip): circuit
Best season: all year
Description:
An unbeatable panorama over Lake Bourget and a bird's-eye view of Hautecombe Abbey. Founded in the 12th century by Cistercian monks, Hautecombe Abbey has been the last resting place of members of the House of Savoie since 1189. In 1992, the abbey was taken over by the Chemin Neuf ecumenical community.
Follow the path through the woods to Ontex. Go past the village hall (mairie) and the church, and then follow the signs to "Le Mont". At the shepherd's hut, turn right onto the track through the forest. At the Les Barmes junction, turn left towards Le Grumeau, and then go to L'Arcelet. Follow the "Point de vue des tables" signs. Retrace your steps to the previous junction and follow signs to Le Grumeau to get back to the viewpoint and car park.
