New Worlds - Chambery
The spread of air transport has meant that many smaller and less well known cities throughout the world find themselves operating regular international services, and accordingly these ‘less well-known’ cities are suddenly finding themselves increasingly better known. One such example is the service that operates between Gatwick International Airport and the French city of Chambery. If you’re intrigued enough by the following article, then take a look at what cheap flights are available through Cheap Flights.co.uk.
As the capital of the Savoy region, Chambery is found in the south-east region of France, on the shores of the Lac du Bourget. It is also a major rail hub and was the originally founded as the crossroads between Burgundy, Switzerland and Italy.
Because of its situation as a crossroads for south central Europe, Chambery has become something of a tourist destination. From the city it is easy to access many parts of the southern France, Switzerland and northern Italy, that other airports do not. Based under the shadow of the Alps, Chambery boasts stunning landscapes, and the surrounding landscape is relatively sparsely populated.
The city itself boasts a rich history. It began life in the 13th Century, growing up around around the Chateau of Count Thomas of Savoie, who picked the site on account of its relatively easy access to other significant regions. As a crossroads it grew into an important commercial centre, as well as representing the chief fortification commanding the large Alpine passes into Northern Italy. It remained the capital of the Savoy region throughout the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, and retained its importance even when the capital was moved to Turin in 1562. The city was only incorporated into France in the mid nineteenth century.
Chambery is famous for three other main things. Firstly the famous Aix-Les-Bains spa, with its thermal baths, is only ten kilometres north of the city. Secondly, the French philosopher Jean-Jacques Roussea spent some considerable time there, and declared his years there as some of the most enjoyable of his life. Thirdly, and finally the city is famous for its architecture, most notably the Fontaine des Elephants, an extravagant and somewhat ostentatious fountain erected for the Comte de Boigne, who amassed a fortune as a mercenary in India.
Chambery gives the impression of a beautiful and relaxed city, one that has managed to escape the hordes of tourists. It also offers an abundance of culture and scenery for those who are looking for a perhaps slightly different option for a relaxing holiday than a beach, whilst the terrain of the Alps presents an opportunity for those wishing to be slightly more relaxing.