Aillon-Le-Jeune brings together cultural and nature activities that can be planned differently depending on the season. The Chartreuse d’Aillon offers a glimpse into monastic history, while plants take centre stage on the Sentier des orchidées. There are also walking routes and opportunities to learn about cheesemaking and farming.
Monastic History and the Bauges
The Chartreuse d’Aillon is located in the remains of a monastery built from the 12th century onwards. Its exhibition presents the history of the Bauges through eyewitness accounts, photographs, videos and models. This brings regional history to life through a range of storytelling formats and visual media.
The Chapelle Saint-Michel, known as “de la Correrie”, is also part of the area’s monastic history: it was part of the monastery of the Combe d’Aillon, built around 1421 by the Carthusian Order. The Chartreuse offers guided tours, exhibitions, workshops and activities for families; the programme may vary by season. An outdoor trail runs alongside the still-visible remains of the former religious estate.
Orchids and Plants Along the Trail
The Sentier des orchidées is located at the exit of Aillon-le-Jeune in the direction of Aillons-Margériaz and is suitable for a family outing. Along the trail, visitors can spot wild orchids as well as black columbine and Carthusian pink. The trail is accessible year-round; the best time to observe orchids is between mid-May and late June, although natural conditions also play a part.
Walking Routes and Winter Activities
The GEO-RANDO des tannes et glacières leads past nine key discovery points marked in the landscape by standing stones. In the Tanne du Névé section, the Spéléo-Rando provides independent access to the underground world. Check local safety conditions before planning this section.
In winter, there are two easy snowshoe circuits starting in Aillon-le-Jeune: Les hameaux de la vallée du Lindar is 4.1 kilometres long, and La Grotte des Fées is 3.1 kilometres long. The second route is therefore one kilometre shorter. Winter access to both depends on snow conditions. Aillons-Margériaz 1400 also offers marked ski touring routes; their availability depends on operating and snow conditions.
Cheese and Insights into Farming
The Fromagerie du Val d’Aillon makes Tome des Bauges. Its museum area covers the history of local cheeses as well as the lives of farmers and cheesemakers. Self-guided and guided tours, as well as cheesemaking workshops, are available by reservation. Workshop dates may vary by season.
The Ferme de la Correrie offers a free self-guided visit. During a visit to this authentic Bauges farm, visitors can see dairy cows, goats and other farm animals, and learn about milking. Farm activities may vary depending on agricultural conditions.
When to Visit and Planning
Cultural and cheese-related activities have different highlights; the Fromagerie requires reservations. The Aillons-Margériaz tourist office provides information year-round about activities, walks, shops, and the cultural and natural heritage of the Aillons-Margériaz resort.
Discover more destinations: Viviers-Du-Lac, Levassaix, Arbin, Jarsy, Cruet, Serrières-En-Chautagne, Montvalezan, Sainte-Hélène-Sur-Isère
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