Autumn facing the Bauges
In late October, the Nivolet cliffs turn red every evening across from the terrace and the Bauges forests are taking on their colours. Our ideas for making the most of these quieter days.
For a few weeks now we have been back to our autumn routine: a last coffee on the terrace in the late afternoon, looking out at the Bauges. The summer heat is long gone, the days are drawing in and the light is softer. It is a season we love here, and one our guests often discover a little by chance.
The Nivolet cliffs at sunset
On every clear evening, the Nivolet and Revard cliffs catch the last of the sun. In the space of a few minutes they turn from grey to gold, then orange, sometimes pink. Below them, the beech trees are turning copper against the dark green of the firs. Once the clocks go back at the end of the month, it will all happen an hour earlier, so remember to be back from your walk in time.
Quieter days
Autumn is also the season for peaceful stays. The paths empty out after the summer, parking by the lake gets easy again and Chambéry goes back to its everyday pace. On sunny afternoons we still have lunch outside; on cooler evenings we put the heating on and bring out the cheese board.
Until the end of October a night costs €95, then €85 from November, with a two-night minimum: enough for a long weekend.
Walking in the colours
This is a good time to walk up to the Croix du Nivolet from La Féclaz, or to wander across the Revard plateau, between forest and meadow. On clear days you can see a long way, and the mist sometimes lingers in the valley while the high ground is in sunshine. Routes, timings and safety tips are in our guide to hiking in the Bauges.
Two seasonal tips: set off early enough, as night falls fast in the mountains, and respect any signs warning of a hunt in progress, which are common in autumn.
Back at the house, it is time for walnuts, apples, squash and the first fondues. To find out where to buy Tome des Bauges and which Savoie wines to try, read our guide to Savoie food and markets. And if you would rather skip the shopping on your first evening, our local produce basket (€35) is waiting when you arrive, with Tome des Bauges, cured sausage and a Savoie wine.
