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Free access · Year-round
Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière
A 24-hectare sensitive natural area on the shores of Lake Léman: ancient forest, centuries-old chestnut trees, lakeside shores and remarkable biodiversity. One of the rare public sites accessible on the French shore of Lake Léman.
Alpine meadow · Wikimedia Commons
At a glance
Type
Sensitive Natural Area
Access
Free · No charge
Duration
1.5 to 2 hours (full walk)
Best season
April – October
Parking
Free (on-site, blue zone 4 hours)
Dogs
Allowed on leash
Stroller
Partially suitable (accessible trails for mobility)
Town
Yvoire
What is Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière
The Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière is a 24-hectare sensitive natural area situated on the shores of Lake Léman, between Yvoire and Excenevex. Owned by the Haute-Savoie Department and the Conservatoire du Littoral, it is one of the largest publicly accessible natural sites on the French shore of Lake Léman. The domain includes an ancient forest with centuries-old chestnut trees, meadows, lakeside shores bordering the lake for 1.2 km, tufa grottos and remnants of the medieval stronghold of Rovorée.
The site stands out for its exceptional biodiversity: it is home to 350 plant species, 87 bird species, 29 butterfly species and 13 bat species, including the pygmy pipistrelle (unique colony in Haute-Savoie). The domain is not an urban park but a preserved natural space, shaped over centuries by human practices. The Rovorée manor and La Châtaignière residence, two 19th-century manor houses, now host temporary exhibitions and artist residencies.
Activities
What you can do here
Practical
Practical information
Address
1715 route d'Excenevex, 74140 Yvoire View on map
Coordinates
46.3703° N — 6.3356° E View on map
Opening hours
Daily year-round. Domain closed at night.
Entry fee
Free
Parking
Free on-site (blue zone 4 hours)
Animals
Allowed on leash
Accessibility
Trails partly accessible for people with reduced mobility. Vehicle access possible to La Châtaignière domain.
Duration of visit
1.5 to 2 hours (full walk)
Contact
Yvoire Town Hall: 04 50 72 80 36
Access
How to get there
By car
From Thonon-les-Bains (~10 km, 15 minutes), take the D25 towards Yvoire then Excenevex. The domain is located on the D25 (Excenevex road) about 1.5 km east of Yvoire town centre. Free parking on-site (blue zone 4 hours).
Open in MapsBy bike
Accessible via the Léman green lane from Yvoire (1.5 km, 5 minutes) or Excenevex (3 km, 10 minutes). Dedicated pedestrian and cycle path, safe and flat.
Open in MapsWhen to visit
When to visit
The domain is accessible year-round. Spring (April–May) offers abundant meadow flowering and the song of migratory birds. Summer (June–September) is ideal for family walks with free guided tours and access to the lake shores. Autumn (October–November) reveals the colours of the chestnut trees and golden light over Lake Léman. Winter is quieter, conducive to nature observation and solitary walks. Trails may be muddy after rain; bring sturdy shoes at all times.
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Gallery
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FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is entry to Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière free?
Yes. Entry to Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière is free and unrestricted year-round. On-site parking is also free (blue zone 4 hours).
How do I reach Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière from Yvoire?
Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière is located 1.5 km east of Yvoire. Accessible on foot or by bike via the green lane (20 minutes' walk). By car, follow the D25 towards Excenevex. A solar boat operates from Yvoire harbour in summer.
What is the best season to visit Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière?
Spring and summer (April–September) are ideal for discovering the biodiversity of Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière: meadow flowering, bird song, and free guided tours in July–August. Autumn offers beautiful colours.
Are dogs allowed at Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière?
Yes. Dogs are allowed at Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière, but must be kept on a leash. The site is a Sensitive Natural Area with remarkable wildlife.
Is Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière accessible with a stroller or wheelchair?
Yes, partially. Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière has trails partly accessible to people with reduced mobility. Vehicle access is possible to the La Châtaignière domain. Some lakeside trails are natural and not passable by vehicle.
Are there guided tours at Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière?
Yes. Domaine de Rovorée-La Châtaignière offers free guided tours daily from Saturday 6 July (July–August), at 3 pm in front of the manor. Duration 1 hour. Themes: natural, historical and architectural heritage.
Sources
Sources & verification
Multi-source verification at publication date. Information may change — confirm with the official operator before travelling.