Chanaz

TL;DR: Chanaz is a picturesque canal village in the French Alps offering boat trips, artisan shopping, historical sites, and outdoor adventures – perfect for a peaceful getaway just 30 minutes from major Alpine destinations.

Why Chanaz Should Be Your Next French Escape

Imagine a place where turquoise canal waters reflect medieval stone houses, where the gentle sound of flowing water mingles with church bells, and where time seems to slow down just enough for you to breathe. Welcome to Chanaz, a gem tucked away in France’s Savoie department that locals lovingly call “Little Savoyard Venice.”

This isn’t your typical tourist trap. Chanaz is home to approximately 500 inhabitants and has earned the prestigious “Petites Cités de Caractère” label, recognizing its exceptional heritage and charm. Whether you’re seeking a romantic weekend, family adventure, or solo retreat, this canal village delivers experiences that’ll have you planning your return before you’ve even left.

Getting to Chanaz: Your Gateway to Alpine Bliss

Location: Chanaz is 427 kilometres from Paris and 28 kilometres from Chambéry, the department capital

Distances from major cities:

• 25 minutes from Aix-les-Bains
• 30 minutes from Chambéry
• 40 minutes from Annecy
• 16 km from Aix-les-Bains

By Car: Two free parking areas welcome visitors, making it stress-free to explore on foot once you arrive.

By Train: The closest station is Vions-Chanaz, connecting you to the regional rail network.

By Bike: The village sits along the ViaRhôna cycling route, which connects Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean, offering a gentle pedal along the Rhône’s banks – perfect for active travelers who want to arrive in style.

What Makes Chanaz Special: Beyond the Postcard Pretty

The Famous Canal de Savières

The heart of Chanaz beats along its stunning canal. The Savières Canal winds its way 4.5 km between Lac du Bourget and the Rhône, creating the perfect setting for the village’s main attractions. Chanaz benefits from a privileged geographical location, bordered to the north by the Savières canal which connects Lake Bourget to the course of the Rhône.

Pro tip: The canal isn’t just pretty to look at – it’s your highway to adventure, whether you prefer peaceful boat cruises or active paddling. MORE READ..

Living History in Every Corner

At the “northern” end of the Thorn chain which runs from the Jura to the west of the Alps massif, surrounded by massifs but only culminating at an altitude of 572 m, Chanaz is already crossed by a Roman road in Antiquity. This rich history is visible everywhere you look, from medieval architecture to ancient artifacts.

Top Things to Do in Chanaz

1. Canal Boat Tours – The Must-Do Experience

Nothing captures Chanaz’s magic quite like gliding along its peaceful waters. Embarks on a wood boat from the pretty village of Chanaz and let you sail to follow the Canal de Savieres and head to the Lake of Bourget in a peaceful athmosphere. A guide is also on board with you!

Options for everyone:

• Guided boat tours: Bateaucanal proposes every day of 1 ° in May at the end of September a departure at 3 pm of Chanaz for a comprehensive 2-hour 15-minute tour
• Electric boat rentals: Perfect for families who want to explore at their own pace
• Canoe and kayak: We also rent Canoe and kayak on Saviere canal and Bourget lake
• Paddleboard: For those who want to keep their balance while soaking in the scenery

2. The Historic Oil Mill – A Working Piece of History

On the heights of the village, the mill Chanaz date of 1860. It consisted of three units. The principal, with a bucket wheel of 6.30 meters in diameter, abandoned after the Second War, was restored in the 1990s is oil new product are nuts and hazelnuts.

What to expect: An interesting place to observe the processing of nuts using a stone grinder. The nuts are made into snacks and lovely oils you can purchase as souvenirs.

Visiting info: Open everyday save Monday. Free entry. Information at +33 7 86 70 78 69

3. Gallo-Roman Museum – Ancient Treasures Unveiled

It still goes back in time then with the Gallo-Roman museum of “Potters Portout”. It is housed in a Gothic chapel dedicated to “Our Lady of Mercy.” Housed in a former 15th-century Gothic chapel, it is filled with beautiful pieces crafted on site: amphorae, plates, jewelry.

Fascinating discovery: The following are examples to see a collection of ceramics “shiny” produced by a workshop Gallo-Roman potters installed in the fifth century which exported its products up ‘Switzerland and the shores of the Mediterranean.

4. Artisan Shopping – Support Local Creators

Chanaz isn’t just about history – it’s a thriving community of artists and craftspeople. Discover the stalls of the many craftsmen and artists who have made their home here: Fill your basket with tasty coffee from a local roaster and a refreshing beer from a brewer. Fall for a piece of jewellery or a handmade soap in a small independent shop · Meet potters and ceramists and pick up the perfect souvenir.

Must-visit shops:

• Local roaster for aromatic coffee
• Craft brewery for unique Savoyard beers
• Soap factory for handmade bath products
• Potter studios for authentic ceramics
• Jewelry boutiques for one-of-a-kind pieces

Architectural Wonders: A Walking Tour

The Maison de Boigne

To highlight then the old stately stronghold, known as “Big House of Boigne” (the name of the last owner of the premises) whose origins date back to the thirteenth century and was rebuilt in the seventeenth. This impressive structure dominates the village skyline and tells stories of Chanaz’s noble past.

Medieval Streets and Hidden Details

The village features many reminders of the past: the Maison de Boigne, the dovecote, the communal oven, the old prison… The typical architecture will have you looking up at the details of facades and moss-covered roofs.

Self-guided discovery: Un circuit patrimoine d’un peu plus d’une heure, balisé au sol offre aux visiteurs la possibilité de découvrir en toute liberté, le patrimoine remarquable du village et les grands moments de sa riche histoire. Un itinéraire adapté est prévu pour les personnes à mobilité réduite, les poussettes (A heritage circuit of just over an hour, marked on the ground, offers visitors the opportunity to freely discover the village’s remarkable heritage and the great moments of its rich history. A suitable itinerary is planned for people with reduced mobility and strollers).

Outdoor Adventures for Every Fitness Level

Cycling the ViaRhôna

Besides the ViaRhôna along the river and allows walkers and amateurs of two wheels to enjoy a secure and track punctuated with landscapes and views of interest. This well-maintained cycling route offers stunning Alpine scenery without the challenging climbs.

Hiking and Walking Trails

On the common geography and unique landscapes (and for some protected as biodiversity), as in the surroundings, many hiking trails have been designed and signposted. Hiking trails and bike paths line the banks of the Canal, perfect for morning walks or sunset strolls.

Water Sports Galore

Beyond the classic boat tours, Chanaz offers multiple ways to enjoy its waters:

• We rent ATV , electric bike on Viarhona along the Rhone and in other wonderfull trip
• Swimming in Lake Bourget
• Stand-up paddleboarding
• Fishing (with proper permits)

Where to Eat: Savoyard Flavors by the Water

On the quayside, lively restaurants and cafés invite you to indulge in a delicious meal. The village’s dining scene perfectly complements its peaceful atmosphere.

Local specialties to try:

• frogs’ legs, fillet of local fish meunière, lake fries
• Fresh trout from local waters
• Savoyard cheese dishes
• Locally brewed craft beers
• Artisanal nut oils from the village mill

Dining tip: Many restaurants offer waterside terraces – book ahead during peak season for the best canal-view tables.

Where to Stay: Rest in Comfort

Chanaz offers accommodations for every budget and style:

Hotel options: SHANA Hotel & Residence provides comfortable modern amenities while maintaining the village’s authentic charm.

Nearby camping: the village connected by a bridge, a leisure park includes camping, bowling alleys, playgrounds… Information at +33 4 79 54 57 50

Bed & breakfasts: Several family-run establishments offer intimate experiences with local hosts who know all the secret spots.

Seasonal Guide: When to Visit

Spring (March-May)

Perfect for mild weather and fewer crowds. Choose spring or summer to make the most of your visit to the Chanaz canal. With ideal weather conditions, let yourself be charmed by the green landscapes and warm atmosphere of our village of Chanaz.

Summer (June-August)

Peak season with all attractions open and warmest weather for water activities. Bateaucanal proposes every day of 1 ° in May at the end of September regular boat departures.

Autumn (September-November)

at the end of September boat tours continue, and fall colors create stunning photography opportunities.

Winter (December-February)

Quieter period perfect for cozy indoor activities and winter walks, though some attractions have limited hours.

Special Events and Festivals

Easter Weekend: On Easter weekend, big gourmet hunt in the medieval streets – a delightful family-friendly treasure hunt through the village.

Heritage Days: guided tours offered during the summer season and on Heritage Days provide deeper insights into local history.

Day Trip Ideas: Explore the Region

Chanaz’s central location makes it perfect for exploring the broader Alps region:

Nearby attractions:

• Belley at 10 km – cathedral and historic center
• Aix-les-Bains at 16 km – one of the best preserved ‘belle-epoque’ spa towns in France
• Annecy at 28 km – a very lovely town with a great deal to enjoy
• Walibi Rhône-Alpes 12km away – perfect for families with children

Practical Information for Visitors

Essential Contacts

• Tourism Information: +33 4 79 54 59 59 or +33 4 79 88 68 00
• Mill visits: +33 7 86 70 78 69
• Boat tours: +33 4 79 35 88 85
• Sports equipment rental: +33 4 56 82 91 68

Accessibility

The village offers Un itinéraire adapté est prévu pour les personnes à mobilité réduite, les poussettes (adapted routes for people with reduced mobility and strollers), making it welcoming for all visitors.

Language Note

PS: The “Z” in Chanaz is not pronounced here! – a helpful tip for asking directions!

Why Chanaz Will Capture Your Heart

Time flies by quickly, and you’ll find yourself enchanted by this village with only one desire: to return to this enchanting and bucolic place. Chanaz will stay etched in your memory; one thing is certain: you’ll come back!

This isn’t marketing speak – it’s the genuine experience of countless visitors who’ve discovered that Chanaz offers something increasingly rare in our fast-paced world: the gift of slowing down. Chanaz: something for everyone! Families, sports enthusiasts, pilgrims… Discover the canal, nature and heritage.

Whether you’re paddling peacefully along ancient waterways, savoring artisanal treats in medieval streets, or simply watching swans glide past your waterside café table, Chanaz reminds us that sometimes the most profound travel experiences come not from checking off bucket list items, but from allowing ourselves to truly arrive somewhere – and stay awhile.

Ready to experience the magic? Start planning your visit to France’s best-kept secret, where every corner tells a story and every moment by the water feels like a small miracle.