Allevard: Thermal Baths, Heritage and Nature

Allevard brings together the history of thermal bathing, a historic defensive structure, and nature-related attractions around Lac de la Mirande. If you are looking for a hotel in Allevard, considering your interests can help you choose a destination: would you especially like to explore thermal history and architecture, or are nature watching and activities by the lake more important to you? The area’s places and themes offer different points of focus.

Thermal history at the museum

La Galerie, Musée d'Allevard-les-Bains, is located in the former casino in the thermal park. The museum shows how natural resources have shaped the Allevard area over the centuries. Iron ore is linked to the metallurgical industry, thermal water to the thermal spa, and “white gold” to the ski slopes of Collet. The exhibition thus brings together different aspects of regional history. It offers a starting point for travellers who want to understand Allevard through more than individual leisure activities, and learn about how it has developed.

The Tour du Treuil and its history

The Tour du Treuil overlooks the Allevard valley. This nearly 25-metre-high, square defensive structure was once a keep and served to monitor the possible arrival of the Savoyards. Its height, shape, and former function give the structure a different profile from the museum: here, the focus is on a single historic building and its surveillance role, while the exhibition explores several economic and cultural themes. Those interested in historic architectural forms will find a distinct point of interest alongside the history of thermal bathing.

Thermes d’Allevard: tradition and Art Deco

Since 1849, Thermes d’Allevard has combined tradition and innovation. It develops spa treatments and therapeutic protocols that complement the water’s special properties with treatments from numerous areas of expertise. The Thermes also feature an attractive park and an Art Deco building. Here, the history of thermal bathing meets a distinctive architectural style. This topic may be of particular interest when planning your trip if you are interested in thermal bathing or the town’s architecture.

Nature and activities at Lac de la Mirande

Lac de la Mirande, a peaceful natural setting, lies on the edge of Allevard-les-Bains. The lake offers fishing, a fitness trail, and a walking path around the water. These activities offer different ways to enjoy the area: fishing, exercising on the trail, and taking a walk are all ways to include the lake according to your interests. This makes Lac de la Mirande a different point of interest from the historic buildings and thermal baths.

Nature watching is also part of the lake’s appeal. Its surroundings are suitable for observing mallards and amphibians. If you are interested in wildlife, this offers a distinct perspective on Lac de la Mirande, alongside activities involving exercise and spending time by the water. The Tour du pays d'Allevard, a GR long-distance hiking trail with impressive panoramas, offers another way to experience the landscape. It adds a route to the options that may appeal to travellers interested in views.

Getting there from Grenoble

From Grenoble, take the A41 to exit 23 near Le Touvet. Then follow the D525 for 11 km towards Allevard-les-Bains. Check road conditions before setting out. The route provides practical guidance for your journey; once there, the points of interest range from thermal history and defensive architecture to the lake and panoramic views.

Discover more destinations: Proveysieux, Saint-Didier-De-La-Tour, Auris, Chanas, Saint-Chef, Jarrie, Chasse-Sur-Rhône, Brangues.

For the regional travel overview: Isere.