Best attractions and places to see around Motz include a blend of historical sites, natural features, and access to diverse activities. Motz, a commune in the Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in France, is situated near the Rhône River. The area is characterized by its proximity to several significant lakes and offers opportunities for cultural exploration and outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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Beautiful historic bridge, also called the bridge of the "black virgin".
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Beautiful historic bridge in Seyssel
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Look up to see the castle
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Located on the heights of Mont Clergeon to the north of Lac du Bourget, the Col du Clergeon – 979 m – has the particularity of belonging to a non-Alpine massif, in this case that of Jura but also to the department of Savoie which is naturally affiliated with the Alps. WEST SIDE This slope starting at Ruffieux, located just opposite the Grand Colombier, has an air copied from that of its illustrious neighbor: certainly shorter with 8.8 km but at 8.5% on average! Around fifteen bends will help you climb the 728 m of positive altitude difference. Still count on a big passage of 1840 m at 10.5% to reach the Col du Clergeon at 979 m above sea level which marks the border with Haute-Savoie. EASTERN SIDE This slope starts at Rumilly in… Haute-Savoie. It offers a positive altitude difference equivalent to the western slope with 772 m but being longer with 15 km, the difficulty is a little less with an average slope of 6.5%. However, the ascent is tricky because it has 2 descents that will have to be climbed back up and a long passage of 3.4 km on a slope of between 8.5 and 9.5%. Small sweetness: the finale won't be too difficult. Sources: Alpes4ever
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Breathtaking view and warm welcome from this castle with a special history.
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Dating from the 14th century, Montvéran Castle has been home to many famous people over the centuries. Perched on the rock of Montvéran from where Berold of Saxony hunted the Saracens around the year 1000. Pierre de Luyrieu built the current castle on this rock in 1316. Apart from certain restorations and some modifications due to the Revolution, the castle is remains the same. It has sheltered within its walls several illustrious people: the Constable of Bourbon took refuge there after leaving the Kingdom of France, the Serpollet brothers worked there with their father before becoming the precursors of the automobile, Serge Prokofiev chose this place in 1929. a setting that favored her inspiration according to those close to her, Henriette d'Angeville – who climbed Mont Blanc in 1838 – was among the regulars of Montvéran. Source: Bugey Sud Tourisme
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Nice area, we would love to cycle there again.
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The area around Motz is rich in history. You can explore the Old bridge of Seyssel, a notable suspension bridge dating from 1840, often called the "bridge of the Black Virgin." Another significant site is Montveran Castle, a 14th-century castle with a rich history. Further afield, consider visiting the Old Castle in Châteaufort, the 16th-century Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, or the impressive Hautecombe Abbey overlooking Lake Bourget.
Yes, the region boasts several stunning natural features. Lake Bourget, France's largest natural lake of glacial origin, is about 28 km away and offers various leisure activities. Lake Annecy, known as a "turquoise gem," is another beautiful option around 29 km from Motz. Other nearby lakes include Lake Nantua (33 km), Lake Aiguebelette (40 km) with its enchanting setting, and the picturesque Lake Genin (35 km).
Motz is an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous opportunities for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. For hiking, explore routes like the "Seyssel – Old bridge of Seyssel loop" or the "Fier Bridge – Princes' Mountain loop." Cyclists can enjoy the ViaRhôna cycle path, which offers varied sections through groves and forests. For more detailed routes, you can check out the guides for Hiking around Motz, Cycling around Motz, and MTB Trails around Motz.
Absolutely. The Old bridge of Seyssel is considered family-friendly and offers an interesting historical sight. For a day of amusement, Walibi Rhône-Alpes, a theme park and aquapark with attractions for all ages, is approximately 39 km from Motz. Many of the nearby lakes, such as Lake Bourget and Lake Annecy, also offer various family-friendly leisure activities like swimming, boating, and picnicking.
Seyssel, located just 4 km from Motz, is unique because it is split by the Rhône River, with parts in both the Ain and Haute-Savoie departments. This means it has two churches and two town halls, one for each department. The town also hosts a market on Mondays and is home to the notable Old bridge of Seyssel, a suspended bridge from 1840.
For panoramic views, consider heading to Col du Clergeon. This mountain pass offers a viewpoint and is an ideal starting point for a quiet walk, providing beautiful forest scenery. It's known for having very little car traffic, making it a peaceful spot to enjoy the landscape.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The Old bridge of Seyssel is loved for its historical significance and picturesque setting. The village of Seyssel is noted for its unique administrative division across two departments. Cyclists particularly enjoy the ViaRhôna for its varied sections through groves and forests, providing fresh air and scenic routes.
The spring, summer, and autumn months are generally ideal for outdoor activities around Motz. The weather is pleasant for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the lakes. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park and Space Nature On Lyand (Domaine Nordique de Sur-Lyand / Grand-Colombier) offer opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the colder months.
Yes, for winter activities, you can head to the nearby Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park, which is about 34 km from Motz. This area, along with Space Nature On Lyand (also known as Domaine Nordique de Sur-Lyand / Grand-Colombier), is suitable for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering opportunities to enjoy the snowy landscape.
While not widely publicized, the Col du Clergeon is considered the least frequented of the three mountain passes in the area, offering a beautiful and quiet forest climb. The Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park, with its cliffs, forests, and alpine pastures, also provides charming, less-crowded natural experiences for those willing to explore beyond the main tourist hubs.
Motz is a small village, and while specific public transport details for every attraction are not readily available, larger nearby towns like Chambéry and Aix-les-Bains are well-connected. For local attractions, especially those in more rural settings like mountain passes or specific hiking trailheads, personal transport is often the most convenient option. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for connections to larger towns like Seyssel or Rumilly, which may serve as hubs for further exploration.
Several charming towns and cities are within easy reach of Motz. Seyssel is just 4 km away, known for its unique division by the Rhône. Rumilly, 10 km away, hosts a market on Thursdays. Belley, the capital of Bugey, is about 21-22 km away with a Saturday market. Aix-les-Bains, a well-preserved "belle-epoque" spa town, is 26 km away. Annecy, famous for its lake, is about 22 km away, and Chambéry, a lively university town, is 39-40 km away.


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