What to do in Revard, the mountain of Aix-les-Bains?

Less than thirty minutes from the center of Aix-les-Bains, the road climbs through the forests of Mouxy and Pugny-Chatenod, winding its way through the landscape before suddenly opening onto a vast plateau of meadows and fir trees. Before you, the sky seems closer, the air crisper, and the horizon infinitely wider. You are at Le Revard.

Perched at an altitude of approximately 1,550 meters in the Bauges mountain range, the Mount Revard is a unique mountain. At once a ski resort, a natural balcony overlooking Lake Bourget, a hiking area and a four-season leisure space, it has been the mountain of the people of Aix for more than a century.

Corn (Mais) the Revard It possesses, above all, a unique personality. Born from the desire to create from scratch a high-altitude health resort Associated with the seaside and thermal activity of the town of Aix-les-Bains, the plateau has neither gigantic buildings, nor endless lines of ski lifts, nor excessive urbanization. It has retained an almost intimate character, made up of wide open spaces, deep forests, and landscapes that constantly change with the seasons.

Le Revard, an easily accessible mountain

One of Revard's great strengths is its proximity.

From Aix-les-Bains, it takes about twenty-five minutes by car to reach the resort. From Chambéry, it takes about thirty minutes. This ease of access explains why Le Revard has been the local mountain for the inhabitants of the Savoy foothills for generations.

La Revard station is located on a vast plateau shared between several communes in the Bauges mountain range. Together with La Féclaz and Saint-François-de-Sales, it forms the domain of Savoy Grand Revard, one of the main French Nordic areas.

Arriving on the plateau is always a surprise. After the climb through the forest, the landscape suddenly opens up to vast clearings, high-altitude pastures, and fir tree edges that sometimes evoke the landscapes of Canada. It's no coincidence that Savoie Grand Revard is often nicknamed " Little Canada ».

What can be found at Revard today?

The centre of the resort retains a human scale.

Here you will find the tourist office, several restaurants, accommodations, holiday residences, some mountain shops and the starting points for the main summer and winter activities.

The atmosphere is particularly family-friendly. Children can quickly become independent, the slopes are close to the accommodations, and the entire plateau can easily be explored on foot.

This simplicity is probably one of Revard's greatest assets. People come here to enjoy the mountains without constraints and rediscover a certain gentleness of life.

The Revard viewpoint, one of the most beautiful panoramas in the Alps

It is impossible to talk about Mont Revard without mentioning its extraordinary viewpoint.

The Revard viewpoint attracts thousands of visitors every year, and it's easy to see why.

The view plunges from over 1,200 meters down Aix-les-Bains and Lake BourgetWhen conditions are clear, the panorama extends from the Jura mountain range to Mont Blanc, passing through the Chartreuse, Belledonne, Aravis and a large part of the Bauges massif.

The show is constantly changing.

At daybreak, the golden light gradually illuminates the lake. In autumn, morning mists sometimes envelop the Aix-en-Provence basin while the Revard plateau already basks in the sun. In winter, the snow transforms the cliffs and forests into an almost Nordic landscape.

The new walkways and glass platform further enhance this impression of floating above the landscape. Even for those already familiar with the site, one always lingers for a few extra minutes.

Nordic skiing, the soul of Revard

If there is one activity that is emblematic of Revard, it is cross-country skiing.

With approximately 150 kilometers of Nordic trails spread between Le Revard, La Féclaz and Saint-François-de-SalesSavoie Grand Revard is among the largest Nordic ski areas in France.

The area is equally suited to skating and classic style skiing. Beginners appreciate the wide, gently rolling plateaus around the resort, while more athletic skiers can embark on long traverses through forests, valleys and clearings.

What makes Revard so charming is the constant change of scenery. You glide through a silent forest before suddenly emerging onto a snow-covered meadow facing Mont Blanc. Then the trail plunges back under the fir trees before reappearing at the edge of an alpine pasture.

The experience is deeply contemplative.

It is not uncommon to come across deer, to see fox tracks in the fresh snow or to simply stop to listen to the silence.

The estate also includes areas dedicated to biathlon, a discipline that is becoming increasingly popular in Revard.

An ideal alpine ski resort for families

Le Revard is also an alpine ski resort.

The Savoie Grand Revard area includes a fifty kilometers of trackThe slopes are served by several ski lifts. The majority of the slopes are green and blue runs, particularly suitable for families and progressing skiers.

Here, there are no long, dizzying descents or very high mountains.

The Revard offers something different: trails through the forest, open spaces overlooking alpine pastures, snow often preserved thanks to the altitude and a particularly relaxed atmosphere.

It's an ideal resort for learning to ski.

Many Savoyards made their first descents here before discovering larger ski areas.

For children, Le Revard is often a fantastic playground. The beginner areas, snow gardens, and proximity of the facilities allow families to fully enjoy the day without spending their time traveling.

The Tipi Village, a unique experience in the Bauges

Among the unique activities of Revard is the famous Tipi Village.

This winter installation offers an immersive experience inspired by the vast landscapes of North America. Families discover a snowy world unlike that of traditional alpine resorts.

The experience is particularly appealing to children.

The Tipi village perfectly complements the identity of Revard: a family-friendly, fun-filled mountain focused on nature.

Hiking: Revard in summer version

As soon as the snow melts, the plateau transforms into a vast hiking area.

Dozens of kilometers of trails crisscross the forests and alpine pastures of the Bauges massif.

The walk around of Revard This provides an excellent introduction to the site. Easy and accessible to all, it allows you to discover several viewpoints overlooking Lake Bourget, the Nordic plateaus and the great Alpine massifs.

More athletic walkers will be able to join the Nivolet cross, an emblematic summit of the Bauges mountains which overlooks Chambéry and offers one of the most beautiful panoramas in Savoie.

Another unmissable classic: the ascent to Mont Margériaz. Its limestone relief, its lapiaz and its cliffs contrast sharply with the forested landscapes of Revard.

Numerous routes also allow you to reach the heart of the Massif des Bauges regional natural park, a true sanctuary of nature where alpine pastures, deep forests and preserved mountain villages alternate.

A paradise for mountain biking and outdoor activities

Le Revard cannot be explored solely on foot.

The plateau is particularly popular with mountain bikers and gravel riders. The old forest tracks, alpine paths and panoramic routes allow for outings suitable for all levels.

Trail running enthusiasts will also find this a great training ground.

The moderate altitude, generally between 1,300 and 1,550 meters, allows practice even during the hottest summer periods.

The Revard It is also a popular spot for paragliding. From certain take-off points located near the viewpoint, flights offer extraordinary views of Lake Bourget and the Alps.

Landscapes that change with each season

One of the great riches of Mont Revard lies in the diversity of its landscapes.

To the west, the view plunges down to Lake Bourget, the largest natural lake in France.

To the south unfold the Chartreuse and Belledonne mountain ranges.

To the east appear the ridges of Bauges massif and the cliffs of Margériaz.

On a clear day, Mont Blanc appears in the distance like an immense white pyramid dominating the entire horizon.

The forest plays a vital role in this landscape identity. The large stands of spruce and fir trees create a unique, sometimes almost Scandinavian atmosphere.

Winter brings silence and snow. Spring sees the first flowers reappear in the alpine meadows. Summer transforms the plateau into a vast green pasture. Finally, autumn sets the forests ablaze.

Why visit Le Revard?

Le Revard has neither the size of the large resorts of Tarentaise nor the constant activity of the large Alpine areas.

But that's precisely what makes it so charming.

People come here to watch the sunset over Lake Bourget.

People come here to ski for miles through the heart of the forest.

People come here to introduce their children to snow.

People come here to walk facing Mont Blanc, breathe the air of the Bauges and rediscover a mountain that has remained profoundly human.

More than just a ski resort, Le Revard is a true balcony overlooking the Alps and probably one of the most beautiful places to breathe fresh air in all of Savoie.

How to get to Revard?

By car from Aix-les-Bains or Chambéry

Le Revard is easily reached by road, but the climb itself is part of the experience. From the center of Aix-les-Bains, follow the D913 towards Mouxy, Pugny-Chatenod and Trévignin. The road quickly leaves the town, crosses residential hillsides, then plunges into an increasingly dense forest. The winding road continues up to the plateau and the viewpoint, located at approximately 1 meters above sea levelYou should generally expect to pay 25 to 35 minutes From Aix-les-Bains, depending on the starting point, traffic, and weather conditions. From Chambéry, the most natural route is via Saint-Jean-d'Arvey and La Féclaz before reaching Le Revard; the journey requires rather 40 to 50 minutesIn winter, traffic between La Féclaz and Le Revard is modified: the section of the D913 crossing the resort is closed and it is necessary to use the D913B, passing through the area of ​​the Forest parking lot.

The road is open year-round, subject to snow conditions. In winter, special equipment is mandatory in the mountainous areas of Savoie during the designated period: winter tires or chains must therefore be used, even when the road appears clear at the start in Aix-les-Bains. Free parking is available in the resort center and near the main attractions. The viewpoint is directly accessible by car and also has access for coaches. Its wooden walkways are normally open year-round, while the glass footbridge is closed during the winter.

Arriving by train and then bus from Aix-les-Bains

To arrive without a car, the most convenient train station is Aix-les-Bains–Le RevardDespite its name, it is located in the center of Aix-les-Bains, on the lake shore, not on the plateau. It is served by TER regional trains as well as several connections to Chambéry, Annecy, Lyon, and Geneva. From the station, the seasonal bus... S11 It directly connects Aix-les-Bains, Le Revard, and La Féclaz. The departure point is in front of the bus station, with additional stops at Le Kiosque, Mouxy, Pugny-Chatenod, Trévignin, and Le Montcel. The journey between Aix-les-Bains train station and Le Revard takes approximately class .

The S11 line is not a permanent service. It operates during the main tourist seasons: in summer, generally from the end of June to the end of August, and in winter from the end of December to the end of March. Several round trips are offered daily, but their number is limited: it is therefore essential to check the last departure before starting a hike or extending your day at the viewpoint.

Schedules and tickets are available on the platforms Cars Savoie Region, The Region will transport you et OùraTickets can be purchased online; depending on the service conditions, single tickets can also be purchased before departure or from the driver. In winter, packages combining bus travel with an alpine or Nordic ski pass may be offered. Bicycles are accepted on certain summer routes, free of charge but with prior reservation, subject to availability.

From Chambéry by public transport

From Chambéry, the Mountain Line 40 It connects directly to La Féclaz, both in summer and winter. Departure is from the Chambéry metropolitan area, and the fare starts at a particularly affordable price. To then reach Le Revard, you must use the shuttle buses connecting the two resorts when they are running, or arrange a transfer depending on the season. In winter, the La Féclaz–Le Revard shuttle is free for holders of a valid Savoie Grand Revard ski pass.

This solution is convenient for accessing the slopes, but it requires more advance planning than departing from Aix-les-Bains. Timetable Schedules vary depending on the season, school holidays, and day of the week. For a day trip, it is therefore advisable to check the outbound journey, any connecting train at La Féclaz, and the final return journey to Chambéry simultaneously.

Cycling up to Revard

The climb up Mont Revard is also a classic in Savoyard cycling. From Aix-les-Bains, the route follows the hillside road then the D913 and represents approximately 20 kilometers of ascent, depending on the chosen starting point, for an elevation gain close to 1 300 metersThe slope generally remains consistent, but the length of the effort, the switchbacks and the temperature variations between the lake and the summit make it a true mountain climb.

The climb begins in the inhabited areas of Mouxy and Pugny-Chatenod, before joining a more wooded road. As you ascend, gaps in the trees reveal views of Lake Bourget, the Dent du Chat mountain, and the foothills of the Savoyard foothills. Le Revard has regularly featured in major cycling events and remains very popular with local cyclists. However, the sometimes heavy traffic, especially on sunny weekends, requires caution and good visibility. A jacket is useful for the descent: even in summer, the temperature can be significantly cooler on the plateau than on the lake shores.

A few precautions before climbing

In all seasons, it's best to check the weather forecast for the plateau rather than for Aix-les-Bains. More than 1,300 meters of elevation difference separate the lake from the summit: the sky might be clear in the town while Le Revard is shrouded in fog, rain, or snow. In winter, you should also check road conditions and whether activities are open; in summer, thunderstorms can develop rapidly over the Bauges mountains.

The viewpoint remains accessible year-round and free of charge, but restaurants, equipment rentals, ski lifts, and other services have their own opening hours. Arriving early allows you to enjoy the panorama in a more peaceful atmosphere, before the midday crowds arrive, and on some mornings, above a sea of ​​clouds that still covers Aix-les-Bains and Lake Bourget.

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