Chambery

Chambery is the former capital of the Dukes of Savoy, in the Savoie department of Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, France, about 115 km east of Lyon. The TER train from Lyon Part-Dieu to Chambery-Challes-les-Eaux takes about 1 hour 30 minutes and costs around EUR 26 (~$29.10) each way, with roughly hourly departures. Driving on the A43 takes about 1 hour 20 minutes. The station on Place de la Gare is a 10-minute walk from the old town and the Fontaine des Elephants, so the town can be explored on foot. The best day begins with a morning arrival and a visit to the Chateau des Ducs de Savoie, followed by a wander through the old town lanes, where trompe-l'oeil painted facades add visual surprises. The Fontaine des Elephants, a landmark monument, is a short walk away and a common photo stop. Lunch can be taken in the old town, where Savoyard cooking with cheeses such as Beaufort and Reblochon, along with local white wines, is common. The afternoon is well spent at Lac du Bourget, a short bus or taxi ride away, for a swim in summer or a boat trip to Hautecombe Abbey, the resting place of the Savoy dynasty. Boat schedules vary by season, so check them before leaving Lyon. Walking in town is gentle and short, making the trip easy, while the lake extension adds a little more. The best season is May to October, when the lake is warm and boats run regularly; winter days are short and the lake activities are limited. Details for the town and the lake are on chambery-tourisme.com. Visitors should note the last trains back to Lyon leave in the evening, and plan lake time accordingly.