The Chablais region is internationally recognised by UNESCO for the exceptional nature of its natural, cultural and human heritage. Its unique setting between lake and mountains offers a wealth of experiences…
From the southern shores of Lake Geneva to the peaks of the Portes du Soleil, you will discover a remarkable region where the history of the land has deeply shaped the history of its people. Traditional architecture, mountain life, life in the mountain pastures, tales and legends, and natural treasures such as the Evian and Thonon mineral waters… all bear witness to these strong bonds between humanity and nature.
Around twenty iconic geosites, accessible to all, reveal the history of the landscapes and offer varied perspectives on the region’s heritage: history, traditions, local character…
Exploring the Chablais UNESCO Global Geopark offers a chance to discover and understand an extraordinary chapter in the history of the Earth: the formation of the Alps.
Over the 50 km separating Thonon-les-Bains from the Col de Joux Plane (Morzine), the Chablais reflects the history of the formation of the Alps! The landscapes of the Chablais tell a story dating back 250 million years: before the mountains were formed, the Alpine Ocean stretched for hundreds of kilometres. During the formation of the Alps, the rocks deposited at the bottom of this ocean were folded, fractured and raised. Glaciers then eroded and sculpted the landscapes, which today offer breathtaking views throughout the Chablais region.
These glaciers, now gone, have profoundly shaped the landscapes of the Chablais. They are responsible for the formation of numerous mountain lakes and Lake Geneva.
The rainwater that now seeps into the deposits left behind when the glaciers retreated gives the waters of Evian and Thonon their distinctive characteristics.
There are currently 147 Global Geoparks, seven of which are in France (the Bauges Regional Nature Park, the Monts d’Ardèche Regional Nature Park, the Digne Geological Reserve, the Luberon Regional Nature Park, the Causses de Quercy Regional Nature Park, the Beaujolais and the Chablais).
Below is a list of natural sites to explore in the Lake Geneva region! A printed map of all the sites is available at our visitor information centres – do come and see us! We’d be delighted to point you in the right direction to discover these extraordinary sites, whether on short family walks or longer hikes for the more experienced!