When most climbers think of rock climbing in France, iconic spots like Ceüse, Briançon and Chamonix probably come to mind. These famous locations, nestled in the French Alps, are just a few hours drive from Chambéry and are easily accessible. But did you know that Chambéry itself is home to numerous climbing areas that are just as captivating? In this article, I'll take you on a journey to two of these lesser-known climbing areas near Chambéry and reveal their many hidden charms.
La Balme de Yenne & Chindrieux du Bas
What makes Chambéry special?
Chambéry, the capital of the Savoie département in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, is often referred to as the "gateway to the French Alps". While it's a winter wonderland for skiers, the area transforms into an outdoor enthusiast's paradise in the summer, making it an ideal base for rock climbing. Surrounded by natural beauty, Chambéry offers climbers the perfect blend of challenging routes and breathtaking scenery.
Top climbing areas near Chambéry
The climbing areas around Chambéry cater to all levels, from beginners to experienced climbers. Two outstanding areas are Lac du Bourget and L'Avant Pays, both of which offer diverse routes that promise adventure and thrills. Although La Chambotte, located on the eastern side of Lac du Bourget, was once the go-to climbing spot, it's now a bit quieter, making room for other areas to shine.
La Balme de Yenne
La Balme de Yenne:
Dynamic limestone routes for advanced climbers
First up is La Balme de Yenne, a must-visit spot even for those coming from Lyon. Located just three minutes from the parking lot, this area is known for its challenging grades ranging from 7b to 8c, making it a playground for advanced climbers. The steep, unique limestone formations here offer a true test of skill.
Many climbers warm up on the 6b/6c routes before tackling the more intense 7's and 8's. While the north face is climbable in the summer, spring and fall are considered the best times to visit.
I climbed a 7a~7b+ route myself and fully immersed myself in the unique limestone experience. The Cathédrale (7b+) stood out, especially the part where you have to climb away from the bolts - a real test of nerves!
Lac du Bourget
If you go to La Balme de Yenne:
1. Coming from Chambéry, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view before the Bourdeau tunnel. Don't miss the panoramic view of Lake Bourget from the parking lot!
2. After the tunnel, stop at the local favorite bakery "Le Pain de Mayou" for a well-deserved treat.
Chindrieux du Bas: Yoav (7a) & Action man (7a+)
Chindrieux du Bas:
Perfect for beginners and intermediates
Next on the list is Chindrieux du Bas, part of the "Liberté, liberté, chérie" collection of climbing sites. This site is ideal for climbers in the 5c to 6c range, although it does require a bit of a hike to get to. With bolts placed at convenient intervals, it's a great area for beginners looking to push their limits. You'll need plenty of quickdraws though! The west-facing wall stays shady until early afternoon, making it a good option to beat the summer heat. Although this area is less frequented these days, it offers a peaceful environment in which to enjoy your climb.
I climbed the "Yoav (7a)" route, which offered an exciting mix of techniques from thin rock to a hanging wall to a slab. This route holds special memories for my climbing partner, who first climbed it years ago - a reminder of the timeless joy that climbing can bring, even across generations.
In the nearby "Le grand mur" area, the routes require more mental strength, with wider gaps between the bolts. "Action Man (7a+), the route I climbed, lived up to its name, requiring Dyno moves reminiscent of an indoor gym with its wide bolt spacing 😆 If you want to test your On-Sight skills, this is the place to do it!
And let's not forget the views - no matter which route you choose at Chindrieux du Bas, you'll be in for a visual treat at the top!
Lac du Bourget
Bonus tip: Unwind with a dip in Lac du Bourget
After a day of climbing, there's no better way to unwind than with a dip in the refreshing waters of Lac du Bourget. We headed to a secluded beach known only to locals, where we enjoyed a quiet moment of post-climb bliss. The combination of challenging climbs and serene nature is what makes climbing in Chambéry so special 😆
A quick note on Lac du Bourget
Lac du Bourget, the largest natural and glacial lake in France, is a must see. Stretching 18 km from north to south, it offers plenty of space to relax. The nearby town of Aix-les-Bains, an internationally recognized spa, has been a retreat for centuries. Interestingly, this town hosted the Japanese national soccer team during the 1998 World Cup in France - a fun fact that adds a touch of home for Japanese visitors!
Escalade en Savoie TOME 1 (2024)
Climbing Topo:
Escalade en Savoie TOME 1
Area: AVANT PAYS & LAC DU BOURGET
✍🏻 The latest (2024) topo lists 32 climbing areas and more than 2000 climbing routes.
Climbing Season:
Spring to fall
✍🏻 can be climbed even in mid-summer if you choose the north face or shady areas.
Climbing equipment I prepared:
Climbing rope: 80m
Quickdraws: 12
✍🏻 Some of the routes I climbed required 17 quickdraws.
Finding a climbing partner in Chambéry
If you can't find a climbing partner in Chambéry, don't worry. I also reached out to local climbers on WhatsApp groups and was able to find a partner quickly. Even if this is your first visit to Chambéry, you can have a great climbing experience with the help of the local community. I hope you enjoy meeting local climbers and making the most of your climbing experience in Chambéry.
Chambery - Challes-les-Eaux & Lake Bourget Fireworks Display 2024
Information about the city of Chambéry that might be useful for climbers 😆
Chambéry train station (La gare de Chambery - Challes-les-Eaux)
There is a climbing wall managed by the French Alpine Club of Chambéry.
Recommendations from my climbing friends (in the town of Chambéry)
Bakery
Boulangerie Hexagone
5 rue Bonivard, 73000 Chambéry
I bought pain aux raisins, chausson aux pommes and other hard breads that were delicious.
Ice Cream Shop
La Sibérienne | Chambéry
9 Rue Doppet, 73000 Chambéry
After climbing, my climbing partner took me to this ice cream shop. He recommended this ice cream shop in Chambéry.
L'épicurial Café
Pl. François Mitterrand, 73000 Chambéry
An acquaintance of mine, who won the world championship in climbing, and his friends meet here to drink beer. The local Chambéry beer we drank here was very good.
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