For questions for
the 24th Conference
2021​​
Society for Phenomenology and Media
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Chambéry, France
City of art and history, Chambéry, a historic city in the French Alps, is known for its rich cultural heritage, charming architecture, and stunning natural surroundings. Originally founded as a medieval trading hub, Chambéry served as the capital of the Duchy of Savoy and is home to the Château des Ducs de Savoie, an impressive fortress symbolizing its political importance. The city’s old town is filled with narrow, winding streets, colorful facades, and elegant courtyards.
Surrounded by lakes and mountains, Chambéry also offers easy access to outdoor activities and ski resorts. Its proximity to cities like Geneva, Lyon, and Grenoble makes it an appealing destination for travelers and researchers alike, offering a blend of historic charm and alpine beauty. Its historic centre was partially destroyed during the Second World War bombing raids in May 1944. Since its merger with two rural communes and the creation of new districts and industrial zones in the 1950s and 1960s, Chambéry has experienced strong demographic growth. The presence of Savoie Mont-Blanc University, established in 1979, has also brought a large university population to Chambéry. Internationally renowned French personalities such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Michel de Certeau have lived here.
The Savoie Mont Blanc University (USMB), formerly known as the University of Savoy, is a French public university spread across five campuses in the cities of Chambéry, Jacob-Bellecombette, Le Bourget-du-Lac, and Annecy. As a multidisciplinary institution, it offers education to over 15,000 students in fields such as science and technology, arts, literature and languages, law, economics, management, and the humanities and social sciences. Research is conducted within its 19 research laboratories. Nationally, it ranks 12th among top universities and holds first place for its high number of students participating in the European Erasmus program
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Venues address:
Université Savoie Mont Blanc
27 Rue Marcoz,
73000 Chambéry
Musée des Beaux-Arts
Place du Palais de Justice,
73000 Chambéry
Location and Venue
Aix les bains
Aix-les-Bains is a charming spa town located on the shores of Lake Bourget, France’s largest natural lake. Known for its thermal baths, elegant Belle Époque architecture, and stunning alpine surroundings, it’s a popular destination for wellness tourism and outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and cycling. The town also offers a mix of historical sites, including the Roman Temple of Diane and the Casino Grand Cercle.
Annecy
Located in the French Alps, Annecy is a picturesque city celebrated for its stunning lake, medieval architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Often called the "Venice of the Alps" because of its charming canals, Annecy is nestled between Lake Annecy and towering mountains, offering a unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The city is renowned for its well-preserved old town (Vieille Ville) with pastel-colored houses, winding cobblestone streets, and landmarks such as the Château d'Annecy and the Palais de l'Isle.
French Alps
Surrounding Chambéry, the French Alps are home to a range of exceptional ski resorts, each offering distinct experiences. La Féclaz, part of the Savoie Grand Revard domain, is known for its relaxed atmosphere and cross-country skiing options. Nearby, Les Arcs and La Plagne make up the Paradiski area, which boasts extensive slopes and modern amenities. The luxurious Courchevel and Meribel, part of the 3 Valleys (Les 3 Vallées) — the largest linked ski area globally — offer high-end experiences and varied terrain. Finally, Val Thorens, Europe’s highest ski resort, is celebrated for its snow reliability and long season. These resorts provide easy access from Chambéry, making it an ideal base for exploring the region’s alpine offerings:
https://ski-chambery.fr/ / https://www.savoiegrandrevard.com/hiver
Travel information
To reach Chambéry from Paris, Lyon, or Geneva, here are the most convenient travel options:
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From Paris:
• Train: The high-speed TGV train from Paris-Gare de Lyon to Chambéry takes about 3 hours. Direct trains are available throughout the day.
• Plane + Train: Fly to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, then take a direct train to Chambéry, which takes approximately 1 hour.
From Lyon:
• Train: Direct regional trains (TER) connect Lyon Part-Dieu or Lyon Perrache stations to Chambéry in around 1 to 1.5 hours.
• Car: Driving takes roughly 1.5 hours via the A43 motorway, covering a distance of about 100 km.
From Geneva:
• Train: Direct TER trains from Geneva-Cornavin station to Chambéry take around 1.5 hours.
• Car: It’s about 1 hour and 15 minutes by car (90 km) via the A41 motorway.
For the latest schedules and prices, consult SNCF for train travel and Lyon-Saint Exupéry or Geneva Airport websites for flight and shuttle options.
Accommodations
There are all types of hotels in Chambéry. We recommend choosing one in the city center, as the conference will be held on the university’s Marcoz campus and at the Fine Arts Museum. Staying centrally will save you from needing to take a bus or taxi. Here are some popular hotels in Chambéry to consider:
1. Petit Hôtel Confidentiel
Located in Chambéry's historic district, this boutique hotel offers luxurious, individually designed rooms and personalized services. It’s known for its warm ambiance, high-end amenities, and proximity to popular attractions.
2. Mercure Chambéry Centre
Positioned near the train station, Mercure Chambéry Centre is ideal for travelers seeking convenience and comfort. This hotel provides modern rooms, a fitness center, and easy access to both the city center and surrounding mountains.
3. Hôtel des Princes – Chambéry Centre
This charming hotel, housed in a former convent, combines historical elegance with modern comfort. Known for its spa, wellness services, and proximity to the Château des Ducs de Savoie, it's perfect for relaxation and sightseeing.
4. Ibis Styles Chambéry Centre Gare
This budget-friendly hotel is close to both the train station and city attractions. It offers vibrant, modern rooms and a complimentary breakfast, making it a convenient option for travelers.
5. Kyriad Chambéry Centre – Curial
Located near the Espace Malraux cultural center, this hotel offers well-equipped rooms with kitchenettes, catering to both short- and long-term stays. It's a comfortable option for those looking to explore the city and its cultural spots.
Each hotel offers different styles, from luxury to budget-friendly, to meet a variety of preferences for your stay in Chambéry.
Venues address:
Phenomenological Activities
During the seminar and after, we propose some phenomenological activities on the French Alps. Some are included in the price of the symposium, others are extra (we'll be announcing the price soon, which will be around 60 euros).
