In the heart of Thonon-les-Bains

With its 35000 inhabitants, Thonon-les-Bains is the historical capital of the region Chablais.
In terms of tourism and economy, Thonon remains the beating heart on Lake Geneva’s French shores.

A RICH HISTORY

The spirits of Amédée VIII and St François de Sales are still living along the streets and monuments of our city. The age of Piemont-Sardaigne kingdom was not so long ago. Little and great history was made in this city - learning about it will never stop surprising you.

With its fantastic history, its strategic position between the lake and the highlands and its cultural patrimony, Thonon-les- Bains has all the cards to win your heart!

CULTURAL SITES

THE MAISON DES ARTS DU LEMAN
Maurice Novarina theatre hosts dance and circus performances, music concerts and operas. With more than 60 shows each season and major events such as Chemins de traverse between October and May and the great Montjoux Festival in July. You should pay this theatre a visit.
Galerie de l'Etrave is a modern art gallery which offers pictures to see and appreciate our world in a different light.

THE FORMER CONVENT OF THE ST MARIE VISITATION
This monastery was built in the XVIIth century. It exhibits warhead arches, a surviving testimony of the Gothic period.
Nowadays the structure acts as a dynamic cultural centre, hosting the media library of Thonon-les-Bains.
 
THE CHAPEL OF THE VISITATION
It is part of the former convent and is currently dedicated to modern art expositions. The exhibitions are regularly changing so do not hesitate to go back there.
 
ST HYPPOLYTE CHURCH
Thonon's oldest church was built in the XIIth century. The only original part that survived time is the crypt but this church has consistently been transformed and restored. Therefore, this monument is one of the best remaining examples of baroque style in Haute-Savoie.
 
BASILICA ST FRANCOIS DE SALES.
This religious monument was completed in the early XXth century. Maurice Denis painted his last artworks in the basilica.
His wall paintings give you another reason to visit this monument. St Hippolyte church is adjacent with the basilica.

SONNAZ CASTLE
This historical dwelling benefits from an exceptional panorama, facing Lake Geneva and the Jura's mountains. Here you will find the Tourist Information Office and the Chablais Museum. This museum offers a permanent exhibition, recently actualised, as well as temporary one, redesigned each year.

HISTORIC PATRIMONY

RIPAILLE CASTLE
With its dimensions, charm and history, Ripaille is one of the most beautiful domains nearby the lake. During the Middle age, it was the residence of choice for the Amédée family, where the Red Earl himself lived.
 
THE RIVES CASTLE
Visible from many view points in the city, this castle is one of the rare medieval buildings preserved in the Chablais.
 
THE FISHING HARBOUR AND THE ECOMUSEUM

The fishing port plays a significant role in the local gastronomy.
From the picturesque fishermen's village, about 10 fishermen are still heading out on the lake with their nets to conquer the water no matter the weather and the season. Take your time to discover the seafront with its particular atmosphere!
 

Located in three traditional gatehouses, at the heart of the harbour, the Ecomuseum lets visitors dive into the universe of actual and past fishermen. Once your stay is over, the lake will hold no more secrets from you.

SUMMER ENTERTAINMENTS

CONCERT IN MONTJOUX CASTLE
In July the domain hosts a festival. The opportunity to enjoy the presence of worldwide music stars at outdoor concerts on the banks of Lake Geneva.
 
THE FONDUS DU MACADAM FESTIVAL

During the first week of August, the heart of the city centre beats in the rhythm of the street art and shows. Mountebanks, clowns, mimes, acrobats, musicians and actors fill the alleys of a joyful and friendly ambience.

THE NOCTURNES CHABLAISIENNES

Also called ''Friday night market'' - it's the moment to come together around regional products and local actors.
Experiment the specialities of local producers, dance with several music groups or get a drink from one of the small refreshment bars. Everything is done here to keep the mood high and make you enjoy your stay.
 
THE WEEKLY OUTDOOR MARKET

Each Monday, the merchants' stalls are filling the streets with food products. Greengrocers, butchers and cheese connoisseurs are here! On Thursday, merchants selling clothes, accessories and other products are joining as well.
 
THE FAIR OF CRETE

It's September and summer will soon come to an end. The first week of the month welcomes a fair with its attractions and sweets. The first Thursday in September, is a long-awaited day for Thonon's inhabitants. In addition to the cattle fair, starting in the Crête Plaza, a gigantic outdoor market extends to the city centre. Dotted by bars and alpine food stands, the market will surely provide you with happy memories.