Nature Reawakens in the Luxurious Spas of the Rhône-Alpes

(Pictured above, the lovely setting of Evian-les-Bain)

Spring is a wonderful time to be pampered with the latest treatments offered by the cutting-edge spa culture of the Rhone-Alpes, France.

Forget the cares of everyday life and escape the hustle and bustle of the working world. A total change of pace is guaranteed when you escape to one of the legendary spa towns in the French Alps.

Aix les Bains

Aix les Bain is the quintessential spa resort, and the soothing warmth of the thermal waters has benefited generations of health seekers and beauty worshippers. The climate is marvelous and accounts for the nickname "Little Nice." Lac du Bourget, France's largest lake, shelters Aix-les-Bains, where even exotic fruit trees and flowers grow. Offering fantastic sailing opportunities, Aix is certified as a Nautical Resort.

Mud baths treat not only the aches and pains acquired in the long winter months, but are said to improve respiratory problems and help smokers break the cigarette habit. If you take the classic waters at the Pellegrini Thermal Baths in Aix-les-Bains, you will be surrounded by the luxurious decor of the Belle Epoque. They are open from April 30 until November 17.

Chevalley Thermal Baths

Thermalotherapy, practiced at the Chevalley Thermal Baths, makes use of the salubrious stimulation of both water and climate. If you become a member of the Hydrotherapy Club, you are invited to participate in all events. The Casino with its gold-inlaid mosaics beckons high and low rollers. Visit www.thermaix.com and www.aixlesbains.com

Neyrac-les-Bains, in Southern Ardèche, offers the benefits of 85° water. Of volcanic origin, this water is superb for your skin. "Beauty Flash in Three Days", a beauty package, positively promises pampering with glowing results. From summer on, the Natural SPA, a new wellness oasis with Jacuzzis using lavender oil and underwater massages, will further enhance the spa resort's attractions.

Learn more about the Thermal Baths of Neyrac-les-Bains at Meyras (Ardèche) at www.thermesdeneyrac.com.

Evian-les-Bains

This classic spa town in Haute Savoie has an ideal location on Lake Geneva, or Lac Leman in French. Known as "Pearl of Lac Leman", Evian is nestled between the lake and the Chablais Mountains. While Evian is the home to the acclaimed bottled water, the Chablais region is famous for its wine.

Evian-les-Bains is only about two hours from Geneva by car, bus or train. The prestigious Portes du Soleil resorts of the Mont Blanc Mountain Range are just 45 minutes away. Evian is not only a sought-after spa town, but also a lakeside and climatic resort. Celebrities from around the world like to stop over here and there is no shortage of entertainment. Palatial hotels are nestled in lush parks. Royal treatments await you at the Evian Royal Resort.
Visit www.en.evianroyalresort.com.

For details on the Rhône-Alpes, visit www.rhonealpes-tourisme.com. You can also find much information on winter and summer activities in the French Alps at www.france-4-ski.com.
For information on France's many offerings, visit www.franceguide.com.