Walk or cycle around Chambery’s beautifully preserved medieval quarter and learn about the area’s rich history under Italian, French and Savoy rule. Tour nearby vineyards to sample regional wines or take a trip to the largest natural lake in France. During the winter, go skiing in the Alps.
Nestled in an alpine valley between the Bauges and Chartreuse mountain ranges, Chambery has long been a place of strategic importance. The city provides access to some of the major mountain passes through the Alps, and has been ruled by both the Italians and the French. A defining moment of its history came in 1232 when Count Thomas of Savoy moved into the castle here. Chambery became the centre of the Savoy Empire for the next three centuries, and evidence of this golden age is still strong today. Look for the many Savoy flags as you make your way around city. They are red with a white cross.
Go on a guided tour of Chambery Castle and see the chapel where the Turin Shroud was kept until the late 16th century. Many believe the ancient piece of fabric was Jesus Christ’s burial cloth. A copy of the shroud can be seen in the Gothic-style Chambery Cathedral.
Chambery is a compact place and is easily walkable. Wander through the streets and alleys of the old part of the city. Here you can see the Fountain of the Elephants, built in the first half of the 19th century.
Rent a bike and explore the surrounding area. Excellent cycle paths lead you around vineyards and to Lac du Bourget, France’s largest natural lake. Spend a couple of hours relaxing on the water in a paddle boat. Visit in winter to ski and snowboard in the French Alps. There are many popular resorts within a 3-hour drive of Chambery.
Chambery has good road and rail links with a number of French cities and the Aéroport de Chambéry-Savoie is 7 miles (11 kilometres) north of the city. Enjoy Chambery’s architecture and abundance of fascinating history.
