Overview
Situated on a natural terrace overlooking Lake Geneva’s southern shore, the spa resort of Thonon-les-Bains offers captivating attractions.
A reliable funicular railway ascends the slope to deliver visitors to Thonon’s panoramic gardens, where breathtaking lakeside views might prove challenging to abandon.
Historically, Thonon served as the capital of the Chablais province, where one can uncover medieval castles amidst a variety of water-related activities on one of Europe’s largest lakes.
Moreover, the resort is conveniently close to the Portes du Soleil, the second-largest ski domain globally, and in summer, the lakeside transforms into a paradise for hikers.
Let us examine the top attractions in Thonon-les-Bains:
1. Funiculaire
Inaugurated in 1888, the funicular navigates 46 meters up the slope connecting Quai de Rives to the town’s elevated section.
Since 1989, the trains have been completely automated, and what distinguishes this funicular from others worldwide is its curved track rather than a straight ascent.
Fares are €1 for a one-way journey or €1.80 for a return. During off-peak periods, the upper office may remain unstaffed, allowing passengers to complete their trip and settle their fare at the base.
2. Belvederes
Upon exiting the upper station, visitors are greeted by the invigorating vista of the lake far below, accompanied by the magnificent Swiss Jura Mountains on the opposite shore.
The belvederes feature well-maintained gardens, interconnected by a pathway embellished with benches to pause and absorb the surrounding grandeur.
This pathway is bordered by iron railings and includes a few telescopes for an enhanced view of the Swiss landscape or the shimmering lake, often adorned with summer yachts.
3. Musée du Chablais
At the center of the belvederes lies the 17th-century Château de Sonnaz, which houses the museum dedicated to the historical Chablais Province alongside Thonon’s tourist office.
This site is historically significant as it encompasses the remains of a much older castle, besieged in 1589 by forces loyal to King Henri III of France, ultimately leading to Thonon’s citizens pledging allegiance to the French crown.
Exhibits provide insights into Thonon’s smuggling history and the “Barques du Léman,” cargo sailboats that traversed the waters from the 1700s through the 20th century.
Additionally, contemporary sculptures by local artist Marguerite Peltzer and Roman artifacts found during local excavations enrich the collection.
4. Château de Ripaille
The history of this distinguished estate on the outskirts of the town dates back to the 1300s, when it served as a retreat for the Dukes of Savoy.
Subsequently, it transitioned into a Carthusian monastery and then fell into ruin for centuries until a local entrepreneur acquired the property in the 19th century for restoration.
The château boasts splendid interiors, especially the kitchen featuring colossal fireplaces and a historic water-heating system.
A 22-hectare vineyard within the estate yields the esteemed AOC Ripaille, a refreshing white wine that pairs beautifully with freshwater fish and local raclette.
The tour culminates in the cellars, where visitors can sample the wine and purchase bottles for enjoyment.
5. Memorial National des Justes
The Domaine de Ripaille is a 50-hectare forest where the Dukes of Savoy once hunted, and upon restoration of the property, a scenic arboretum was cultivated on one side.
This area invites exploration or leisurely rides through mature oak woodlands, providing uplifting views of the lake.
Visitors can also commemorate the “National Memorial of the Righteous,” inaugurated by Jacques Chirac in 1997 to honor individuals worldwide who have saved others from genocide.
This location was chosen in recognition of the locals who aided Jews in escaping the Nazi regime during World War II by facilitating their crossing into Switzerland.
6. Port de Rives
Thonon boasts the largest marina on the French side of Lake Geneva, offering all the amenities necessary for a delightful time on the water: Featuring 800 berths, accompanied by dining establishments, shops, bars, and a service station equipped with a crane.
If sailing isn’t on your agenda, you might prefer to relax by the water at a café terrace, indulging in the picturesque views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Later, if motivated, one can stroll along the promenade leading to natural beaches enveloped by pines and chestnut trees.
7. Église Saint-Hippolyte
Commencing construction in the 12th century, this church has undergone significant alterations over the past nine centuries, resulting in a striking amalgamation of architectural styles.
The oldest section is the Romanesque crypt, which has remained unchanged since the 1100s.
However, the remainder was reconstructed in the 17th century in the Savoy baroque style, featuring vibrant frescos depicting saints and apostles, along with exquisite stucco vaults.
This ornate transformation occurred only after the church transitioned back to Catholicism following a period of Protestant Bernese control from 1536 to 1594.
8. Food and Drink
For an authentic culinary experience, request the local delicacy, “atrial,” at traditional dining establishments.
This dish comprises liver, minced pork, herbs, and spices encased in caul fat, roasted to perfection.
During winter, it is served hot with a white wine sauce, while in summer, it may be enjoyed as a cold cut.
Having existed for centuries, this specialty transcends borders, also being popular in Switzerland.
Other Savoy classics to sample include fondue and raclette, both featuring melted cow’s cheese, as well as freshwater fish such as perch or whitefish, or the hearty tartiflette, a casserole made with potatoes, onions, lardons, and reblochon cheese.
9. Écomusée de la Pêche et du Lac
Situated in three traditional huts within the fishing village, this museum showcases the lake’s wildlife and the fishing industry in Thonon.
The picturesque setting allows visitors to observe boats coming and going while nets dry in the sun.
Inside, antique fishing tools, including vessels, engines, and nets recount the history of the trade in Thonon.
Moreover, it serves as a valuable resource for the region’s natural environment, featuring aquariums filled with the lake’s freshwater fish and informative panels for bird identification along the shore.
10. Lake Sports
Thonon-les-Bains is recognized as one of 36 locations in France bestowed with the Four-Star France Station Nautique Award.
Practically every water sport conceivable is available at the marina, encompassing sailing, windsurfing, water-skiing, kayaking, and canoeing as specializations.
During July and August, paddle-boarding experiences a surge in popularity; its accessibility allows families to join in this engaging activity.
If independence is desired, rowboats or motorized crafts can be rented, even without a boating license.
11. Dranse River Rafting
Originating in the alpine peaks, the Dranse river is characterized by its high volume, cascading down from the Chablais Alps into Lake Geneva between Thonon and Évian-les-Bains.
For an adrenaline rush, consider embarking on a white-water rafting excursion on these challenging waters.
You will join a group of six to eight participants, guided by an experienced professional as you navigate the rapids.
The adventure is exhilarating, yet with all necessary safety equipment provided, you can embark on it with peace of mind.
If traditional rafting seems insufficiently thrilling, consider donning a wetsuit and flippers for an engaging hydrospeed experience, tackling the rapids on an individual raft.
12. Hiking
On pleasant days, the sight of the rolling wooded slopes south of Thonon makes it nearly irresistible to embark on a trail.
A gentle 10-kilometer buffer exists before the Alpine ridge, making many local hikes suitable for family members of all ages.
The highlight is the route leading to the ruins of the Château D’Allignes, accessible from Thonon’s Place de Crète.
This 11th-century castle was once a stronghold for the Dukes of Savoy, with some frescos still visible after a millennium.
The vistas from this elevated site are remarkable, and with benches and grassy areas available, it presents an ideal picnic setting.
13. Winter Sport
From December through March, Thonon serves as a lakeside retreat following exhilarating days on the ski slopes.
The region hosts eight resorts, with Bernex being just 18 kilometers away, featuring 19 kilometers of slopes serviced by 12 lifts.
However, those seeking more excitement might opt for a 40-minute drive to the renowned Portes du Soleil for their winter sports adventures.
While lift passes are pricier than other regional resorts at €51 per person, this grants access to an expansive 540 kilometers of slopes in the world’s second-largest ski area.
14. Natural Spring
In the 19th century, Thonon was officially designated as a spa town, adopting the title “les Bains.”
The Versoie natural spring was initially utilized by the Romans, and the revered Bishop of Geneva, St. Francis de Sales, expressed admiration for these healing waters.
Visitors can sample the spring water at Parc Thermal, where it flows from a fountain, necessitating the bringing of a cup or bottle to fill.
Thonon spring water is bottled near its source and distributed throughout France.
Additionally, the Valvital center, recently refurbished, has been providing balneotherapy and hydrotherapy courses for over a century.
15. Yvoire
While traversing the French shoreline of Lake Geneva, consider visiting the medieval village of Yvoire, located approximately 15 minutes to the west by ferry or road.
This village is among the 155 “Most Beautiful Villages in France,” a prestigious designation recognizing exceptional small settlements across the country.
The 13th-century Count of Savoy, Amadeus V, significantly contributed to this honor; recognizing the village’s strategic location on a promontory by the lake, he fortified its defenses, which largely remain intact today.
Within the fortified boundaries, one can find alpine-style houses showcasing wooden terraces and galleries.
