Nestled on the enchanting shores of Lake Geneva and backed by the majestic Chablais Pre-Alps, Évian-les-Bains is a destination that combines history, well-being and nature. At the dawn of the French Revolution in 1789, everything changed when a visiting marquis from Auvergne discovered the therapeutic virtues of a local fountain. Suffering from kidney and liver problems, the Marquis de Lessert found the water "light and easy to drink", and saw his health improve considerably. The fountain, located on Mr. Cachat's property, soon became famous, propelling Évian onto the world stage. Today, Évian-les-Bains is not only a popular seaside resort for its beaches and crystal-clear waters, but also a renowned spa resort.
In this article, we take a look at the 8 must-sees when visiting Évian-les-Bains.
1. Pamper yourself at the Evian thermal baths
Les Thermes d'Évian is a renowned spa offering a complete range of wellness and health treatments. Indeed, in Evian, well-being has been springing up since the 19th century. It was in 1878 that the therapeutic virtues of Evian mineral water were officially recognized. Since then, the Thermes d'Evian have gone from strength to strength. Today, medical cures are particularly recommended for rheumatological, digestive and urinary disorders. However, the benefits of Evian water are accessible to all, allowing you to pamper yourself with a treatment, a day or a week.
2. Admire the Palais Lumière, a must-see in Evian-les-Bains
Evian's Palais Lumière is a magnificent building from the last century, housing the four allegorical statues of the springs created by sculptor Louis-Charles Beylard. Rehabilitated as a High Environmental Quality building in the former thermal baths, this 4,200 m2 cultural palace hosts temporary exhibitions on a wide variety of themes. The main façade, alternating white stone and straw-yellow earthenware, is unique in Lake Geneva spa architecture. The dome that originally topped the building has been restored, adding to its charm. This monument is well worth a visit, if only to admire the frescoes painted in the vestibule.
What you need to know don't hesitate to ask about the exhibition program, available on the town's website. You can also book a private walking tour of the city.
3. Go to Evian Tourist Office
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva and easily accessible, the Evian Tourist Office is much more than just an information point. It's the place to go to organize your stay and discover the town. Outside the building, an interactive terminal provides a wealth of information, but it's also essential to take advantage of the expert advice available all year round. You'll find tourist maps, plans, guidebooks and transport information to ensure you don't miss out on all that Évian has to offer. The full wealth of Évian can be found at the tourist office.
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4. The Cachat spring at Espace Evian: a must-see!
The Buvette Cachat is a true masterpiece of spa architecture and an emblem of Art Nouveau in Evian. Built in 1903, it houses a fun, interactive space dedicated to Evian's world-famous mineral water. Whether you're curious to discover whether the water really does travel through the mountains for years, as the advertising suggests, or you're a collector of the brand's iconic bottles, this permanent exhibition is a must-see in Évian-les-Bains. You can draw water directly from the source before visiting the boutique.
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4. Take a guided historical tour of Evian-les-Bains
Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva and backed by the Chablais foothills, Evian-les-Bains and the surrounding area offer many opportunities for enjoyable sporting activities. A two-hour stroll from the tourist office on Place de la Porte d'Allinges allows you to discover the jewels of the local heritage. Between the Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption church and the Parc du Splendide, you'll pass by the famous Buvette Cachat with its stained-glass dome, as well as the ancient Source Cachat, which was the first to reveal the virtues of Evian water. This historical tour, covering the period from the Middle Ages to the present day, lasts over an hour and is accessible without difficulty.
Please note this tour is offered every Tuesday from the Tourist Office, from April 12 to September 27 for individuals, and all year round by appointment for groups.
6. Take the Jardins de l'eau du Pré Curieux walk
Climb aboard a solar-powered catamaran for a fifteen-minute crossing of Lake Geneva and discover the Jardins de l'eau du Pré Curieux, a "remarkable garden". Stroll along the paths to discover the still waters of ponds and puddles where carp and water lilies reign, the running waters of rivers and mountain streams, wet meadows and ornamental gardens. A great family outing in Evian-les-Bains!
Read also: Top 11 hikes in Savoie
7. TheVilla du Châtelet for a timeless break
Located in Évian-les-Bains on the shores of Lake Geneva, the Villa du Châtelet is a unique place that bears witness to the art of living of the Belle Époque. Today, it is home to a cultural circle open to all history and heritage enthusiasts, highlighting the historical and artistic memory of the Evian-les-Bains and Lake Geneva region. Discover the wealth of local cultural history! The Villa du Châtelet is also a place for intellectual discoveries and encounters such as philosophical workshops, literary meetings, art history conferences and musical aesthetics sessions.
Good to know: Ideally located just 8 minutes' walk from the landing stage, in a magnificent garden facing the lake, the Villa du Châtelet is the perfect place to stroll and relax in Évian-les-Bains.
8. Take the funicular for an exceptional panoramic view
Inaugurated in 1907, the Évian-les-Bains funicular railway effortlessly climbs the 300-meter difference in altitude between the lower and upper stations, offering an exceptional panoramic view. Classified as a historic monument, this funicular is a rare piece of railway heritage. Originally designed to transport spa guests, it is now one of the city's must-see attractions. Once at the top, a short walk to the Clair Matin park reveals a magnificent view of Lake Geneva. The refreshment bar at the upper station, open in summer, adds to the charm of the experience. And the best part? The funicular is free!
9. Take a cruise on Lake Geneva
Climb aboard an electrically-powered solar-powered catamaran to savor the tranquility of a silent cruise on the waters of Lake Geneva. This 45-minute excursion aboard the Agrion, an electro-solar boat, lets you sail in complete serenity, while observing the surrounding wildlife and landscapes. The Agrion is named after a small dragonfly, a symbol of silence and discretion. This walk offers a pleasant break along the water, with the mountain ranges as a backdrop.
Good to know: You can also embark from the Jardins de l'eau de Pré Curieux. Departures are guaranteed for groups of 10 or more, depending on weather conditions.
10. What to do in Évian-les-Bains Go to Maison Grimaldi
Dedicated to the Archbishop of Vienna, Vespasien Gribaldi, the Maison Gribaldi houses precious archives in the form of stereoscopic plates. This process, the forerunner of 3D, creates the illusion of relief by superimposing two images seen through a double-lens camera. The result is a vivid and moving view of Evian. The visit allows visitors to discover the evolution of the town's urban landscape. Another part of the exhibition features films by the Lumière brothers shot in Evian between 1896 and 1898.
Book now: Discover the history of Evian-les-Bains and the surrounding region ona guided walking tour that you can book here.
Where to stay in Evian-les-Bains?
The best area to stay in Evian-les-Bains depends on your priorities. If you prefer to be in the heart of the action and close to amenities, the town center is ideal. For stunning views and water activities, the lakeside is perfect. If you're looking for tranquility and green spaces, residential neighborhoods like Neuvecelle are an excellent option. Finally, if you're interested in spa treatments, staying near the Thermes d'Évian is recommended.
Here are our three favorite accommodations:
- Our favorite: Hôtel Le Littoral
Just imagine... Opening your window in the morning to the beauty of Lake Geneva. Well, you can make your dream come true by booking your room right here. Just a stone's throw from the Casino, in the beating heart of Evian, this charming family-run hotel deserves to be praised, offering the warmth of a fine Savoyard home inside, with its blond wood panelling and objects evoking the mountain pastures, and a dream setting outside. To get you off to a good start, a quality breakfast is served in the morning.
- The family-friendly Hôtel Continental
Click here to book your room at this charming family-run hotel, located on a pedestrian street in the center of town. In business since 1868, this charming Belle Époque hotel offers cosy rooms with all modern comforts. The owners, who are inveterate bargain hunters, are gradually fitting the rooms with tassel chandeliers and regularly updating them, each with its own personality.
- The cheapest: Hôtel du Palais
If you're looking for a comfortable night's sleep at reasonable rates in the heart of the city, this is the place. The rooms, bookable here, have been given a new color and a trendier look. As for the building itself, it boasts some fine architectural features ontwo floors, including an imposing granite staircase and superb cross-vaults.
You can also check out our tips for finding a vacation rental in Haute-Savoie!
What to do in Evian-les-Bains when it rains?
When the weather is gloomy in Évian-les-Bains, there are plenty of indoor activities to make the most of your stay. Here are just a few suggestions:
- Visit the Thermes d'Évian: Enjoy the benefits of the thermal waters and wellness treatments offered by the Thermes d'Évian. It's the perfect opportunity to relax and recharge your batteries.
- Discover the Maison Gribaldi: Immerse yourself in local history with a visit to this house, which houses valuable archives and stereoscopic plates offering a unique insight into the evolution of Evian.
- Explore the Palais Lumière: This magnificent building hosts temporary and permanent art exhibitions. You can admire a variety of works and learn more about the region's history and culture.
- Buvette Cachat: Discover this masterpiece of spa architecture and Art Nouveau. You can learn more about Evian's mineral water and even tap directly into the source.
What to do in Évian-les-Bains with your family?
Évian-les-Bains offers a multitude of activities suitable for the whole family, guaranteeing moments of pleasure and discovery for young and old alike. Here are just a few suggestions:
Enjoy the beaches and Lake Geneva: Evian-les-Bains' many beaches are ideal for relaxing, swimming and water sports such as paddling, kayaking and sailing. Lac Léman offers a magnificent backdrop for days in the great outdoors.
- Visit the Jardins de l'eau du Pré Curieux: Board a solar-powered catamaran for a short trip to these gardens, which have been awarded the "Jardin remarquable" label. Children will love discovering the ponds, carp and water lily ponds, rivers and wet meadows.
- Explore the Palais Lumière: This historic building features temporary and permanent art exhibitions. Children can marvel at the works and learn more about the region's history and culture.
- Discover the Buvette Cachat: This masterpiece of spa architecture and Art Nouveau is a fascinating place for children. They can learn more about Evian mineral water and even draw water directly from the source.
- Stroll in the parks and gardens: Parc du Splendide and Parc Clair Matin offer green spaces ideal for picnics, games and family fun.
What to visit around Évian-les-Bains?
Évian-les-Bains is surrounded by numerous attractions and natural sites that are well worth a visit. Here are a few suggestions for excursions around this charming town:
- Yvoire: Classified as one of France's Most Beautiful Villages, Yvoire is a medieval village on the shores of Lake Geneva, some 20 km from Évian-les-Bains. Its cobbled streets, flower-filled houses and 14th-century château make it a must-see.
- Thonon-les-Bains : This spa town 15 km from Évian-les-Bains offers magnificent views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. You can visit the Thonon funicular, which takes you to the summit of Mont Ripaille, or explore the Château de Ripaille and its vineyards.
- Located in the Chablais massif, 20 km from Évian-les-Bains, the Gorges du Pont du Diable offer spectacular scenery and hiking trails. The Pont du Diable, spanning the Dranse, is a particular highlight of the visit.
- Abondance is a picturesque village 25 km from Évian-les-Bains, and one of the most beautiful mountain villages in the Alps. It's famous for its 12th-century abbey and its AOC cheese, Abondance. You can visit the Maison du Fromage to learn more about how this local cheese is made.
- If you're ready to cross the border, Lausanne is a Swiss town located on the shores of Lake Geneva, 40 km from Évian-les-Bains. Must-sees include the Olympic Museum, Lausanne Cathedral and the city's many parks and gardens.
What to visit: Évian-les-Bains or Thonon?
The choice between Évian-les-Bains and Thonon-les-Bains depends on your preferences and what you're looking for during your stay.
- Choose Évian-les-Bains if you're interested in wellness treatments, spa architecture, art exhibitions and an elegant atmosphere.
- Choose Thonon-les-Bains if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, outdoor activities, local markets and panoramic views from the funicular railway.
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