Rhôn'Ô Lac Paddling Event
Rhôn'Ô Lac is a gathering of paddlers to discover the natural and cultural riches of Lac du Bourget and the Rhône river over two days.
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Albens
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City
ℹ️Practical info — Albens
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🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Since Albens is part of the merged commune of Entrelacs, look for road signs pointing to "Entrelacs" when navigating.
- It is a well-suited base camp: you can easily take day trips to both Lake Bourget (Aix-les-Bains) and Lake Annecy from here.
- Visit the local artisanal cheese shops to try the famous Savoyard cheeses before buying them.
- If traveling by train, the Albens railway station provides convenient connections to Annecy and Chambéry without the hassle of parking.
🍽 Food
🍽
Savoyard specialties
Head to a local auberge or traditional restaurant to enjoy tartiflette or fondue made with regional cheeses.
🍽
Diots au vin blanc
Try these traditional Savoy sausages cooked in white wine, often served with polenta.
🍽
Local bakeries
Pick up a brioche de Saint-Genix (studded with red pralines) for a sweet local treat.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Cheese dairies (Fruitières)
Buy authentic Reblochon, Beaufort, and Tomme de Savoie directly from local producers.
🛍
Weekly market
Visit the lively local market to discover regional Savoyard products, cured meats, and fresh vegetables.
🧘
The surrounding countryside
Take a walk or bike ride on the rural paths offering beautiful views of the Bauges mountains.
🧘
The banks of the Deysse river
A small, peaceful stream area providing a shaded and relaxing walking spot.
Water temperature…
Highlights of 2026
1
Located in the pretty Albanais region of the Savoie department, Albens serves as a strategic and tranquil gateway between two of the French Alps' most celebrated bodies of water: Lake Bourget and Lake Annecy. Historically rooted in the Roman era, this pleasant settlement, which is now part of the larger Entrelacs municipality, features a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist hubs. Visitors can explore the gentle rolling hills and traditional agricultural landscapes that define the local scenery, making it a first-rate starting point for cycling tours and leisurely hikes into the nearby Bauges Massif Regional Nature Park. The village itself features traditional Savoyard architecture and quiet streets where you can discover the authentic rhythm of local life. Artisan workshops and small local markets provide a taste of regional specialties, including excellent local cheeses and cured meats. Whether you are looking for a relaxing countryside stay or a convenient base to access both the high alpine peaks and the grand lakes, Albens provides a harmonious blend of rural charm, historical resonance, and outdoor accessibility.
- Location: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
- Top sights: Saint-Alban Church · Albanais Marshes · Lac du Bourget
- Nearby: Lake Bourget / Aix area (8 km)
- Population: ~6.221
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 0 | 4 | 8 | 12 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 14 | 10 | 4 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 98 | 73 | 90 | 75 | 111 | 100 | 93 | 99 | 76 | 92 | 96 | 106 |
Geography
Facts
- Part of Entrelacs commune
- Ancient Roman Albinum
- Near Bauges Natural Park
- Reblochon cheese production
- Elevation: 329 to 630 meters
- Key transport junction
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Albens (3)
Frequently asked questions
How far is Albens from Lake Bourget?
The lake is reachable in about 15 minutes by car (approx. 12 km). The beaches of Aix-les-Bains are the closest.
Is there a local market?
Yes, every Friday morning there is a traditional market in the center with regional products from Savoy.
What is the historical significance of Albens?
Albens was an important station in Roman times called Albinnum. Some ancient inscriptions can still be found in the village today.
What hikes start directly from Albens?
The path to Belvédère de la Biolle gives beautiful views of the Alps and the lake. Paths are mostly easy to moderate.
Are there good restaurants with Savoyard specialties?
In the center, there are several cozy inns serving fondue, raclette, and tartiflette made with local cheese.
Albens: where is it located?
Albens is located in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France.
Albens: what is there to see?
Highlights include Saint-Alban Church, Albanais Marshes, Lac du Bourget.
Albens: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Albens: why is it worth visiting?
Located in the pretty Albanais region of the Savoie department, Albens serves as a strategic and tranquil gateway between two of the French Alps' most celebrated bodies of water: Lake Bourget and Lake Annecy.
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