Lake Bourget - Largest Natural Lake in France, close to Chambery

Situated on the edge of Chambery, Lac du Bourget is known as the Grey Lake. It is the longest and deepest lake within France.

The lake was formed during the end of the last ice age. It covers a total area of 44.5 square kilometres and runs in a narrow strip for 18km. On average the lake is around 85 metres deep but at certain points goes as deep as 145 metres. It is surrounded on either side by high steep mountain ranges but still has sandy and pebble beaches. In the summer the lake has many people practising water sports and swimming and the water temperature can reach a warm 26 degrees.

The main town on the lake is Aix-les-Bains and as well as being a thermal spa resort it is also a nautical resort. You can go sailing, rowing, kayaking, rafting, fishing, diving, wake boarding and water skiing from here. Lake Bourget is known for its wide variety of fish, there are 30 different species.

But you don't have to stick to the water, the area is great for walking, mountain biking and climbing. There are numerous cycling tracks around the lake and vineyards.

And Aix-Les-Bains has an 18 hole golf course as well as a zipline and tree top climb close by. You can paraglide in the area or go walking in the national park and reach panoramic view points.

There are Roman remains in Aix-les-Bains and an old Abbey, where the old Counts of the Savoie region are buried. The Abbey is built in a gothic style.

There are other pretty villages along the shoreline and the remains of a castle and a priory. Of course you cannot visit this region without tasting some of the many wines and there are four Michelin starred restaurants in the vicinity.

If you are flying into Chambery and have the time, visit the Lake before you get your airport transfer from this website.