Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges wilderness guide
Regional Natural Park · France

Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges

Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges is a stunning natural park in the heart of the French Alps, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities and a glimpse into the region's unique alpine ecology.

Regional Natural Park212,0004+ Trails

Designation

Regional Natural Park

Total Wilderness Area

212,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges

Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges is a stunning natural park in the heart of the French Alps, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities and a glimpse into the region's unique alpine ecology.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Established in 1995, Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges spans a mountainous area between the cities of Annecy, Chambéry, and Albertville in the Savoie and Haute-Savoie departments. The park is characterized by its rugged limestone mountains, lush forests, and alpine meadows, making it a haven for plant and animal species, including the iconic chamois and mouflon. The area's rich history is evident in its traditional pastoral landscapes, quaint villages, and heritage sites such as abbeys and châteaux. Visitors can enjoy a plethora of recreational opportunities ranging from hiking and mountain biking to skiing and parasailing. Key landmarks include Mont Colombier, Revard Plateau, and Lac d'Annecy's crystal-clear waters. The park’s commitment to sustainable tourism and conservation ensures that its natural beauty remains for future generations to discover.

Field Guide · Regional Natural Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Mont Colombier offers panoramic views of the Alps and pristine hiking trails.✦ The variety of wildlife, such as chamois and golden eagles, can be spotted throughout the park.✦ Revard Plateau is famous for both summer hiking and winter sports.✦ The quaint village of Lescheraines is a hidden gem known for its traditional charm and artisanal products.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges
Park Recreation

Climbing

Available in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, no permits required for most activities.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Camping du Lac de Carouge

Located by Lac de Carouge, ideal for water activities and family-friendly camping.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Aix-les-Bains, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
⌖ 11.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Aix-les-Bains, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Aix-les-Bains is a dynamic adventure base on the shores of Lake Bourget, where hiking, mountain biking, sailing, and skiing converge with centuries-old thermal spas for ultimate outdoor and wellness experiences.

Late Spring to Early Autumn for water and mountain activities; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Annecy, France
⌖ 17.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Annecy, France

Annecy, France offers stunning lake and mountain adventures with hiking, paddling, biking, skiing, and paragliding. Its charming old town and alpine scenery create an ideal base for outdoor lovers year-round.

Late Spring to Early Autumn for lake and mountain activities; Winter for skiing and snow sports
Explore Town
Annecy, Haute-Savoie
⌖ 17.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Annecy, Haute-Savoie

Annecy offers year-round outdoor adventures with hiking, paddling on Europe’s cleanest lake, mountain biking, skiing nearby, and paragliding above alpine views. The charming town and natural beauty make it a perfect base for active travelers.

Late spring to early autumn for water and mountain activities, winter for skiing and snow sports
Explore Town
Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
⌖ 31.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Saint-Gervais-les-Bains combines alpine charm with year-round access to Mont Blanc adventures. Ski in winter, hike and bike in summer, and enjoy thermal spas for relaxation after outdoor thrills.

Winter and Summer
Explore Town
Les Houches, France
⌖ 35.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Les Houches, France

Les Houches is a picturesque alpine village perfect for adventure seekers. Whether you're skiing in winter or hiking in summer, its trails and landscapes offer something for everyone.

Winter for skiing; Summer for hiking and biking
Explore Town
Grenoble, France
⌖ 37.68 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Grenoble, France

Grenoble, an alpine city with stunning mountain vistas, is your hub for hiking, skiing, and paragliding adventures. Rich in culture and outdoor activities, it's perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Year-round, with specific activities better suited for winter and summer.
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

First Flights: Letting Children Soar Above Lake Bourget
ADVEXPEDITION
Aix-les-Bains, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Air ActivitiesADV Bookable

First Flights: Letting Children Soar Above Lake Bourget

A short, expert-guided introductory paraglide for children around age five and up that lifts above the landscapes of Lake Bourget and Aix‑les‑Bains; this guide explains what to expect and the key limits to know.

Air ActivitiesPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip