Things To Do
in La Motte-Servolex
La Motte-Servolex sits on the northern shore of Lac du Bourget in Savoie, France, offering a quiet base for exploring the Savoyard region. The town blends residential neighborhoods with lakefront paths and quick access to Chambéry and Aix-les-Bains. It serves as a gateway to the Bauges and Chartreuse massifs while preserving a distinctly Savoyard charm.
Its lakeside setting and proximity to alpine scenery create an appealing mix of relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of La Motte-Servolex, taking in the beautiful architecture and local shops. Don't miss the chance to visit the local market for a taste of fresh produce and artisanal goods. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
After lunch, visit the nearby Château de la Roche du Roi to explore its rich history and stunning gardens. Take your time strolling through the meticulously maintained grounds and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Capture memorable photographs with the picturesque backdrop before heading back to town.
Evenings in La Motte-Servolex are perfect for indulging in local cuisine at one of the traditional French bistros. Sample regional specialties while enjoying the warm ambiance of the restaurant. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk through the town under the stars, soaking in the serene night atmosphere.
Embark on a refreshing hike along the Lavaux Trail, known for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape and vineyards. The fresh mountain air and scenic paths make for a perfect start to your day. Keep your camera ready for the breathtaking vistas that await you.
After a morning of hiking, find a local vineyard for a wine tasting session and learn about the wine-making process. Pair your wine sampling with a delightful picnic lunch featuring local cheese and bread, enhancing the experience. Spend time relaxing and enjoying the company of fellow travelers or friendly locals.
As the sun sets, return to La Motte-Servolex for a cozy dinner at a charming restaurant offering a seasonal menu. Sip on local wines while enjoying a leisurely meal, reflecting on your day's adventures. End your evening with a leisurely stroll by the waterfront, basking in the tranquil ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥖Combo lunch or mid-range dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $70-120 |
| 🚌Public transport monthly pass | $40-60 |
| 🏨One night in mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful lake setting on Lac du Bourget
- Easy access to Chambéry, Aix-les-Bains, and the Bauges
- Calm, walkable town with scenic lakeside paths
- Good base for day trips to mountains and nature parks
- Limited nightlife and urban attractions within the town
- Smaller town amenities compared with larger cities
- Seasonal crowds around peak lake season may affect quietness
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "Merci beaucoup" - Thank you very much
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Combien cela coûte-t-il ?" - How much does this cost?
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare ?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in La Motte-Servolex
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft light reflecting on the water with the hills in the distance provides ideal conditions for landscape photography.
Historic streets and a tall church steeple offer classic French small-town imagery.
Panoramic views over Lac du Bourget and surrounding mountains, especially at golden hour.
A scenic path with boats, sailboats, and seasonal activity to capture lively lakeside scenes.
Rugged forested slopes and gentle meadows provide depth and contrast for nature photography.
Food in La Motte-Servolex
La Motte-Servolex Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A cheese fondue made with a blend of local cheeses, perfect with bread and pickles at fondue spots.
Must-Try!
Baked potato dish with reblochon cheese, onions, and lardons; a comforting staple in mountain taverns.
Melted cheese served with potatoes, charcuterie, and cornichons; widely enjoyed in mountain eateries.
Small montagnard pasta squares baked with cheese and cream.
Aged cheeses often featured in charcuterie boards and market stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant markets with regional cheeses, charcuterie, and fresh produce; best visited with a local guide to taste cheeses.
Seasonal stalls offering crepes, pastries, and light snacks by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin conversations with a polite Bon jour or Bonjour Madam/Monsieur; use polite titles.
Keep hands visible and use bread to help with sauces; avoid rushing hosts during meals.
Safety
Tipping in La Motte-Servolex
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% is appreciated for good service.
Cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash for small markets and cafés; some rural places may prefer cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days, blooming landscapes; expect rain showers; ideal for hiking in Bauges and lakeside walks.
Warm to hot days, lake activities plentiful; peak tourism around the lake; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Golden foliage and cooler temps; great for photography and quiet trails; check for early morning frost.
Snowy mountain scenery; opportunities for nearby skiing and sledding; chilly but scenic; pack warm layers.
La Motte-Servolex at Night
Hiking in La Motte-Servolex
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy trails along the lake with scenic water views.
Short to moderate hikes with panoramic views over the lake and surrounding peaks.
Forest and meadow hikes with diverse wildlife and scenery.
Airports
How to reach La Motte-Servolex by plane.
Close to La Motte-Servolex with connections to France and Europe; easiest for domestic travel.
A larger regional airport about an hour and a half away by car with international and domestic flights.
International hub about 1.5–2 hours away by road and rail, convenient for broader connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of Savoyard origin, many families connected to agriculture and small-scale commerce.
Visitors from France and abroad attracted by lake views and nearby mountains.
People traveling to Chambéry for work or study and using regional transport links.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Accessible in nearby alpine resorts during winter.
Popular in summer due to the large lake.
Low-traffic lanes around the lake and hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Motte-Servolex.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Savoyard dishes are cheese heavy; look for vegetable sides, fondue with vegetables, and seasonal salads. Ask for vegetarian cheese options and avoid meat-based broths.