Surrounded by mountains, Albertville is a brilliant blend of culture, nature and discovery . Founded by Scandinavian king Charles Albert in 1836, this pretty little Savoy town was once a medieval village, traces of which can still be seen in the Conflans district. It owes its international renown to the 1992 Winter Olympics, a poignant memory of which is preserved in the Tremplin 92 museum. Bordered by the Arly river, the town has one foot in nature, yet is perfectly anchored in modernity. Let's discover the 15 must-sees in Albertville, one of the 15 most beautiful places to visit in Savoie.
1. Stroll around Place de l'Europe, Albertville's central hub
Albertville's long Place de l' Europe, surrounded by ancient buildings, amazes and astounds. The entire town vibrates to the rhythm of the 1992 Olympic Games, seeing its landscape transformed and modernized over the years. The hospital, train station and road infrastructure were slowly but surely built. Step by step, the city center was redesigned around the Place de l'Europe, creating an agora surrounded by two rows of classic buildings. A circular structure with a dome houses various cultural facilities: the Dôme théâtre, the Dôme cinémas and the médiathèque. All in all, Place de l'Europe is the place to be if you want to understand the gradual birth of Albertville.
2. Discover the charm of rue Gambetta
Does rue Gambetta seem pretty normal to you? Let your gaze wander into the distance, beyond the street itself... At the far end, the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church and the mountain backdrop complete this exceptional view. We almost forget to look at the boutiques, cafés and exotic cuisine restaurants that dot our steps! Take the time to stroll down this cobbled street in Albertville, a promise of shopping moments as well as a view that's 100% Instagrammable. And who knows... Seeing nature on the outskirts of town might just inspire you to go hiking around Albertville. Savoie is ideal for that!
3. Stroll through the medieval town of Conflans, Albertville's historic district
The Arly river divides the town in two. While modernity has invaded on one side, on the other, time seems to have stood still. Welcome to the medieval city of Conflans, Albertville's old town. From the top of its rock, it is adorned with architectural treasures from the Middle Ages and later. Among them, don't miss the Château de Costaroche, a vibrant reminder of the history of the Manuel de Locatel family. In the Hauts de Conflans, you'll discover a typical rural heritage, as well as the Fort du Mont, witness to the town's defense system in the XIXᵉ century.
If you don't have a lot of time on your hands, it's best to opt for a guided tour encompassing the whole thing. Ask at the tourist office. Fun workshops, treasure hunts and other treasure hunts are sometimes offered. Families beware!
4. Admire the Tour sarrasine de Conflans, a witness to history
Conflans is home to a public garden. In this public garden, you'll find the Tour Sarrasine, once a place of prayer for the Bernardines. Although it is no longer open to the public, you can still admire it and learn about its history while strolling through the lush green garden. The only surviving reminder of the Château de la Cour that once stood in Albertville, it's ready to tell you all about its history.
5. Visit the Fort du Mont, the defense of Albertville
Visiting Albertville also means taking an interest in its history. Take the time to visit the Fort du Mont, overlooking the Albertville basin at 1,130 m above sea level. The icing on the cake is the view over the Tarentaise valley and the Beaufortain mountain range. Built between 1877 and 1881 to prevent an Italian invasion, it was then occupied by the French army until the end of the Second World War. Unfortunately, developments in artillery soon rendered it obsolete and it never saw combat.
Over the years, however, it has taken on a second, more playful life. For many years, it hosted summer camps, before being used as a maturing site for the famous Beaufort cheese. A fascinating fort to discover on a guided tour!
6. What to do in Albertville Visit Saint-Jean-Baptiste church
Your stroll along rue Gambetta leads you straight to theSaint-Jean-Baptiste church, built by Eugène Denarié between 1868 and 1873. It replaces the former church, which had become dilapidated and too small. Its neo-Gothic "troubadour" style contrasts with the neoclassical style of the town's civil buildings. A detail that makes it all the more unique! Its beautiful facade is intriguing, inviting you to visit the interior. There, the stained glass windows reflect their colorful details in a simple church, enhanced by the talent of the stained glass artist.
7. Marvel at the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire d'Albertville
An imposing square building, overhanging arcades, stands out in the medieval landscape of Conflans. Nicknamed the Maison Rouge, it dates back to the XIVᵉ century and houses the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire d'Albertville within its listed walls . From Gallo-Roman times to sacred art and everyday objects, take a journey through Albertville's past. The richness of Savoy's heritage is revealed in a collection that is as complete as it is fascinating.
Good to know: a fun booklet with coloring pages and crossword puzzles lets children have fun visiting the museum.
8. Learn at Tremplin 92, the House of the Winter Olympics
Re-live the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics, a real springboard for the town. So it seems only logical that its original name - La Maison des Jeux Olympiques - should have become Tremplin 92 a few years ago. The museum has now moved to the Olympic Park, offering a true immersion in the atmosphere of the Games. You can also experience this immersion in the bobsleigh simulator and virtual reality experiences on offer in this state-of-the-art museum. From the games themselves to the city's evolution, you'll discover the history of a booming city, step by step.
9. Stroll through the beautiful city of Chambéry, near Albertville
Once you've had your fill of Albertville, it's time to get out of town and explore the surrounding area. Among the most beautiful towns in Savoie to discover, Chambéry is a must. Just 40 minutes away via the A43 freeway, Chambéry reveals its typical Savoyard charm. Starting at Place Saint-Léger, stroll through the town towards the Fontaine des Éléphants, before visiting the famous Château des Ducs de Savoie. The kids have fun at the Galerie Eurêka, and you continue your visit at the Rotonde Ferroviaire. There's so much to discover in Chambéry, as shown by these 11 must-sees in Chambéry.
10. From the Abbaye Notre-Dame-de-Tamié to the Centre d'Accueil Saint-Pierre de Tarentaise
Just 20 minutes from Albertville, theAbbaye Notre-Dame-de-Tamié nestles in the heart of Plancherine. In addition to a bucolic stroll, you'll enjoy a magnificent view of the surrounding area. This peaceful place is inhabited by a community of monks who devote their time to prayer and manual labor. It is therefore not open to visitors, but can be contemplated during a leisurely stroll. Just 300 metres away, the Centre d'Accueil Saint-Pierre de Tarentaise provides information on this first visit and much more. On the program: photo exhibition, audiovisual presentation on the life of the monks and a store selling monastic products, including the famous Tamié cheese.
11. Visit Fort de Tamié, witness to the region's military history
Just 5 minutes from the abbey, in Mercury, discover the Fort de Tamié, which once commanded the stronghold of Albertville. It was the largest defensive fort in the area. Today, it has left its defensive function behind, to be transformed into a place of leisure. Young and old, from the age of 3, have fun on the tree adventure course. In the green oasis surrounding the fort, you'll also find a children's playground and a store selling local produce. It's the perfect place for a family picnic. Don't have anything to nibble on? A fast-food corner is available on site.
12. Learn at the Musée d'Arts et Traditions Populaires du Val d'Arly
Set course for the Musée d'Arts et Traditions Populaires du Val d'Arly, just 10 kilometers from Albertville. Housed in 12 rooms of the Château de Crest-Chérel, it exhibits objects linked to Savoyard life of yesteryear. Crockery, engravings, everyday objects and period costumes gradually reveal the rural life of the region. The historic setting lends itself perfectly to this visit, immersing visitors in an atmosphere conducive to discovery. Game books are also available for children.
13. What to do around Albertville Visit Annecy
Less than an hour from Albertville nestles the adorable town ofAnnecy, accessible via the D1508. Lake Annecy has made the town famous, as much for its breathtaking beauty as for the many activities it offers. Fed by mountain springs, it sparkles in the heart of the town, surrounded by lush, green countryside. The town's colorful lanes lead you to the Château d'Annecy, the Pont des Amours and the lovely Thiou canal. Travelling with children? They'll love the Grande Jeanne animal park!
Go further with our 17 must-do activities in Annecy.
14. Marvel at Château de Miolans and its botanical garden
In just 25 minutes from Albertville, you can reach Château de Miolans, an ancient fortified castle in Saint-Pierre-d'Albigny. Standing majestically on its rocky escarpment, it offers breathtaking views over the Combe de Savoie. Classified as a Historic Monument since 1944, some parts of the building are still in good condition, while others are in ruins. But this doesn't stop many festive events taking place around the château throughout the year. From Mont-Blanc to Vercors, the view from the top of the ramparts is extraordinary!
15. Visit Aix-les-Bains, Savoie's must-see spa town
A short drive on the A43 freeway takes you to another of Albertville's must-visit towns: Aix-les-Bains, renowned for its thermal baths. As we mentioned in our 13 things to do in Aix-les-Bains, the old thermal baths have been replaced by the tourist office. The new Chevalley thermal baths welcome you for your choice of therapeutic or wellness treatments! Travelling with the family? A visit to Lac du Bourget is a must, with its many activities for all. From the Parc Floral des Thermes to the Musée Faure, the town has many more surprises in store for you!
Where to stay in Albertville?
Albertville remains fairly quiet, but the city center will inevitably be a little noisier, unless you choose to stay in the quiet little streets. There are also a number of superb hotels offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, so don't hesitate!
- The cheapest
Hotel Le Savoie offers the best value for money in Albertville. For around sixty euros, you'll enjoy rapid access from the train station, parking (for a fee) and appreciable comfort. Close to the ski slopes, it offers quiet rooms on the courtyard side. Click here to book this interesting Albertville hotel .
- The best table
In addition to beautifully decorated vintage rooms, discover exceptional cuisine at theMillion hotel-restaurant, run by chef José de Anacleto. Offering appreciable peace and quiet, this renowned establishment is an ideal base for your vacation in Albertville. Book this delicious addresshere.
- The most historic
It's in the medieval town of Conflans that you'll find the Au Cheval Blanc hotel, nestled in a former coaching inn. From the warm welcome of the owners to the view of the mountains, reviews are unanimous: this charming hotel is a delight to stay in , and reservations are just a click away .
What to do in Albertville when it rains?
Visit bowling 3000 is a great way to pass the time when it's raining in Albertville. With its 6 lanes, it welcomes locals and visitors alike in a friendly atmosphere. Still raining? Head for the Dôme Gambetta, the town's cinema. Comfortably installed, you can pass the time in the company of a good film while waiting for the sun to return.
The Olympic Hall is another address of choice when it's raining in Albertville, and there's plenty to do. Of course, the Tremplin 92 museum is the star attraction. However, physical activities are also on offer, including aclimbing wall and an ice rink. On the cultural side, the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire is also worth a visit come rain or shine. Here you can discover the rural life of the region, in a great retro atmosphere. The kids themselves will love it, but expect them to ask you 1001 pertinent questions!
What to do in Albertville with children
Savoie is a great place to go on vacation with children, and Albertville is no exception. Katapult Park is one of Albertville's top addresses for family fun. Recently opened, this trampoline park offers a variety of bouncy activities for young and old alike.
Although not located directly in Albertville, the Tamié leisure park is ideal when visiting the region with children. On the program: accrobranche course, zip lines, escape game, playground, etc. A great day of adventure ahead!
The Olympic Park also offers a wide range of leisure activities for children. From skating to climbing to tennis, they'll never be bored in this area dedicated to sport and leisure. A visit to the Tremplin 92 is the perfect way to round off your family outing. Always curious, even more so since the announcement of the Paris 2024 Olympics, children will be enthralled by this visit.
Your children are keen to get out into the fresh air, but aren't keen on hiking? Get in touch with the Bureau des Guides d'Albertville. In addition to a wide range of outdoor activities, it offers donkey-riding outings that children will love. You can visit the beautiful Savoyard countryside, while enjoying an unusual family experience. You can also rent an electric mountain bike right here for a day out in the French Alps!
Let's continue with a cultural visit to the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire, which has fun booklets for children. Equipped with their own little manual of games, they can discover the museum in a fun way that the whole family can enjoy.
Finally, set course for the Wam Park in Montailleura paradise for young and old alike. The leisure center welcomes families throughout the summer, with its beaches, inflatable water structures and toboggans.
Petit Futé tip
Visiting Albertville for the weekend? Visit the tourist office website, on the "micro-adventures" page . Various pages offer ideas for organizing your weekend:
- discover the town,
- on Olympic soil,
- between sport and culture,
- sporting weekend in the Bauges, etc.
Make your choice, and follow the guide without any headaches!
Albertville and the surrounding area offer an ideal base for a successful mountain vacation. Are you irresistibly drawn to the lush greenery of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region? Discover the 11 most beautiful hikes in Savoie! They're the perfect complement to your visits to local towns and historic monuments. Thanks to our 19 must-do activities in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, you'll discover all the beauty of the region.
Book ahead for the hottest things to do on your vacation in Albertville:
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