Croix du Nivolet: a piece of history in the heart of the Bauges mountains
The Nivolet Cross sits proudly atop the Nivolet mountain in the massif des Bauges. It's impossible to miss this sacred monument overlooking the town of Chambéry in Savoie! Its impressive structure immediately catches the eye. No wonder it has become an emblem of the region.
Climbing up to this cross has become a popular activity for hikers. And it's easy to get to. Would you like to try out this great experience? Plan a stay in the area! Camping La Bruyère, 30 kilometers away, is ready to offer you a warm welcome and excellent service. You can come alone, as a couple or with your family.
The history of a legendary cross
The history of the Croix du Nivolet began with the construction of the Avenue du Comte Vert. Construction work required demolition of the Pénitents Noirs chapel, its calvary and cross. But Count Louis de Fernex de Mongex, prior of the brotherhood at the time, demanded that the cross be moved. He also asked that it be made visible from the Chambéry cluse.
The Chambéry town council then decided to install the Croix des Raforniers on the dent du Nivolet. In 1861, the Prefect of Savoie, Hippolyte Dieu, gave his approval. Construction of the monument then began. At the time, the cross had a metal frame and was covered in tinplate. The first inauguration took place on September 15, 1861.
But the cross has been destroyed and rebuilt several times. The culprits? The hurricane of 1909, the bombing during the Second World War and the lightning strike in 1960. The last time it was restored was in preparation for the 1992 Albertville Olympic Games. Since then, the Croix du Nivolet has been enthroned at the summit of the Bauges massif.
The monumental cross at Le Nivolet
The Croix du Nivolet is an impressive structure. Made of reinforced concrete and aluminium, it stands 21.50 metres high and 9.60 metres wide at the summit of the Bauges mountains. Overlooking the Cluse de Chambéry, this grand edifice is one of Savoie's most famous landmarks. When you're passing through the region, just look up to admire this sacred monument from afar.
But why settle for so little? After all, you can walk right up to the cross. What's more, an impressive sight awaits you at the top of Mont du Nivolet. Magnificent panoramas will flash before your eyes. You'll have a breathtaking view of the Chambéry basin, Lac du Bourget, the Chaîne de l'Epine and the peaks of the Chartreuse massif.
The Croix du Nivolet can be reached on foot. There are several circuits to choose from. You can also get close to Mont du Nivolet on a bike ride. Many mountain bike trails are also available in the area. When you reach the summit, you can enjoy a memorable picnic in the heart of nature.
A choice of hiking trails
A number of hiking trails are available for those wishing to get up close and personal with the Croix du Nivolet. Some circuits are recommended for family outings. Routes are also available for more experienced hikers. Discover your options and choose the trail that's right for you.
Easy routes
Fancy a family outing in an unusual setting? Hiking to the Croix du Nivolet is a great idea. But since hiking in the mountains can be strenuous for children and beginners, it's best to opt for the easiest walking route. The trail leading up to the cross from Le Sire is one of them.
Called the " chemin des crêtes ", it's a fairly straightforward route. The whole family can do it. Along the way, everyone can enjoy the beautiful scenery. If you're looking for a faster trail, the route from MaisonBrûlée is a good choice. It's a 3 km route with an ascent of around 400 m.
The Croix du Nivolet can also be discovered via the circuit starting from Plateau Sud in La Féclaz. After passing a few houses, you'll walk across a vast expanse of pasture before reaching the forest. This forest trail is full of pleasant surprises.
If you set off early in the morning to discover the Croix du Nivolet, you'll have the impression of strolling above a sea of clouds. If you schedule your visit for the end of the day, a beautiful spectacle awaits you. The region will be decked out in magnificent colors. And as a bonus, you'll have the opportunity to admire a beautiful sunset.
Itineraries for more experienced hikers
A hiker with more stamina can choose from a number of more or less difficult walking routes. For example, you can choose the route starting from the hamlet of Pragondran, with an ascent of around 900 meters. But if you're used to hiking, you can do it without any problem. You can even extend the adventure by doing the loop to Le Sire.
The hike to the Croix du Nivolet from the Lovettaz parking lot in St Jean d'Arvey is also an excellent choice. This trail can take you to the foot of the Doria waterfall. Beware: the route includes a very technical section: the Pas de l'Echelle (cables and rungs). This itinerary is for experienced hikers only.
Discover the Croix du Nivolet at Camping la Bruyère
Would you like to discover the Bauges massif and hike to the Croix du Nivolet? Camping la Bruyère is located just north of theChartreuse massif , 16 kilometers south of Chambéry and 30 kilometers from the starting points of the Croix du Nivolet hiking trails.
A pleasant place to stay
Camping La Bruyère is a quiet, authentic site surrounded by lush green countryside, just 25 minutes from Chambéry. It's the perfect place for a stay in the heart of nature.
Conveniently located, Camping La Bruyère gives you access to a wide range of outdoor activities. In addition to hiking, you can enjoy pleasant discoveries and experiences in the Chartreuse massif and also in the Bauges massif north of Chambéry. What's more, the Cirque de Saint-Même waterfalls, Lac d'Aiguebelette and Lac du Bourget are all within easy reach of the campsite. There's plenty for water sports enthusiasts to marvel at.
Comprehensive accommodation services
If you're in the mood for an original stay in Savoie, Camping la Bruyère has something for everyone. Just 1h30 from Lyon, this magnificent green setting offers 1 chalet, 4 tent lodges for campers and those wishing to live in the heart of nature with maximum comfort, and 55 pitches for caravans, campervans and tents.
Pitches are shady, semi-shady or sunny. You can book for a night, a weekend or a week. Your comfort is assured during your stay at the campsite. All essential services are available to holidaymakers. What's more, we've chosen to advocate slow tourism. You'll be able to slow down the pace and take the pressure off. Your vacation will be one of total relaxation.
In a nutshell...
Would you like to enjoy some beautiful nature walks or hikes? A visit to the Croix du Nivolet is a must. There are many trails leading to this monument of the Bauges massif. That said, you're in for a great experience, whichever route you choose. You can enjoy this rewarding activity by staying at Camping La Bruyère. Book your pitch for your next vacation!
