Perched on the water’s edge, Hautecombe Abbey is one of the most iconic sites in Savoie. Located in Saint-Pierre-de-Curtille, on the western shore of Lake Bourget, it offers a majestic yet peaceful setting, where history blends with the landscape. Just three hours from Paris by train, it offers a peaceful outdoor getaway.
A timeless interlude on the shores of Lake Bourget
Founded in 1125 by Cistercian monks, the abbey was deliberately built in an isolated location, conducive to withdrawal from the world. At the time, the wild valley, difficult to access, was perfectly suited to monastic life. Hautecombe quickly gained considerable importance, thanks in particular to the support of the House of Savoy, which made it its official necropolis.
Many members of the Savoy dynasty are buried here, including several counts and dukes of Savoy. The most famous of these is Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy, whose tomb still attracts many visitors today.
The abbey’s current architecture is the result of several transformations. While the original buildings were sober, in keeping with the Cistercian spirit, the complex underwent extensive restoration in the 19th century in a very assertive neo-Gothic style. It is this richly decorated white silhouette that makes Hautecombe famous today. Lake Bourget, the largest natural lake in France, almost entirely surrounds the abbey and offers remarkable views. Many people choose to visit by boat.
After the French Revolution, the abbey fell into decline and was abandoned, before being reoccupied by various religious communities. Today, it is home to a community of monks, but remains open to visitors at certain times.
Hautecombe Abbey is a unique place, at the crossroads of history, art, and beautiful panoramas. It is a site that tells the story of nearly nine centuries of monastic life, dynastic power, and architectural transformations, while retaining a deeply peaceful atmosphere. A must-see for anyone interested in Savoyard heritage or looking for a timeless escape.
📍Hautecombe Abbey – Saint-Pierre-de-Curtille