Attractions and Places To See around Novalaise - Top 20

Novalaise is rich in history. You can explore the Saint-Jean Church of the Thorn, which dates back to the 14th century and houses remarkable artifacts like an 18th-century Pietà statue. Other historical sites include the Chapel of La Salette, built in the mid-19th century, and the ruins of 11th-century Château Montbel. Don't miss the remnants of the Grange de l'Epine, a monastic barn with origins in the 12th century.

For breathtaking vistas, head to Col du Chat (638 m), a mountain pass offering fantastic views of the lake below. Another excellent spot is Épine Pass, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Chambéry, Lake Bourget, and Lake Aiguebelette from its summit. The Lovely view of Lake Bourget highlight also provides a very photogenic panorama of golden reedbeds, the blue lake, and surrounding mountains.

Novalaise is nestled beside Lake Aiguebelette, the third-largest natural lake in France, which is a hub for outdoor activities. The lake also holds the submerged Archaeological Site of Gojat, indicating ancient human activity. Nearby, the mountain passes like Col du Chat (638 m) and Épine Pass offer stunning natural landscapes and views.

Yes, Novalaise is home to the Musée Lac et Nature (Lake and Nature Museum). This museum offers valuable insights into the local lake ecosystem and the natural environment, enriching visitors' understanding of the region's heritage.

The region around Novalaise is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy water sports, hiking, cycling, fishing, and paragliding, especially around Lake Aiguebelette. There are numerous marked trails for hiking and cycling, including scenic routes like the "Balcons du Lac" trail. For more specific routes, you can explore Mountain Hikes around Novalaise, MTB Trails around Novalaise, and Road Cycling Routes around Novalaise.

Absolutely! Novalaise offers excellent cycling opportunities. The rural environment around Lake Aiguebelette features scenic routes, and you can also access the ViaRhôna Cycle Path Along the Rhône Near Brens, which is well-maintained and offers beautiful views. For more challenging rides, explore the MTB Trails around Novalaise or Road Cycling Routes around Novalaise.

Yes, the natural landscape around Novalaise is crisscrossed with numerous marked trails for hiking, catering to varying levels of difficulty. You can find trails offering picturesque views, such as the "Balcons du Lac" trail with stunning vistas of Lake Aiguebelette. For a comprehensive list of routes, check out the Mountain Hikes around Novalaise guide, which includes routes from moderate to difficult.

Novalaise's proximity to Lake Aiguebelette makes it a prime location for water-based activities. You can enjoy a variety of water sports, go fishing, or even try paragliding over the lake. The lake's surroundings also offer opportunities to stop by the water's edge and relax.

To immerse yourself in local life and discover regional products, visit Novalaise's vibrant weekly markets. They are held every Wednesday and Sunday, offering an authentic glimpse into the community and a chance to purchase local goods.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning views, especially from mountain passes like Col du Chat (638 m) and Épine Pass. The well-maintained ViaRhôna Cycle Path is also highly recommended for its scenic beauty and ease of use. The diverse offerings, from historical sites to natural beauty, are appreciated by the komoot community, with many upvotes and photos highlighting the area's appeal.

Yes, Novalaise offers several family-friendly options. The activities around Lake Aiguebelette, such as water sports and gentle cycling routes, are great for families. The ViaRhôna Cycle Path is also wheelchair accessible and generally suitable for family bike rides. Visiting the Musée Lac et Nature can be an educational and engaging experience for children, and the weekly markets offer a lively atmosphere for all ages.

The warmer months, from spring through autumn, are generally the best time to visit Novalaise for outdoor activities. During this period, you can fully enjoy water sports on Lake Aiguebelette, hiking, and cycling on the numerous trails. Note that some mountain passes, like Épine Pass, are closed in winter, limiting access to certain routes.