Aquarium du Lac du Bourget, Public aquarium in Aix-les-Bains, France
Aquarium du Lac du Bourget is an Art Deco-style building on the waterfront that transformed into the AQUALIS interpretation center with a restaurant in 2017. It displays native freshwater fish from the lake and provides information about Lake Bourget's ecosystem.
The building was designed in 1933 by architect Roger Pétriaux as a hydrological research station for engineers specializing in limnology and fish farming. This scientific purpose shaped its original function and focus.
The building takes its name from the lake whose fish it displays, and exemplifies the Art Deco style that became popular in the region during the early 20th century. Visitors can still see the original features of this architectural style that shape how the place looks today.
The site offers guided tours and educational programs to help visitors understand the lake's ecosystem. With the integrated restaurant, you can easily combine your visit with a meal without leaving the grounds.
The western facade displays an original mosaic from the 1930s with aquatic motifs, a rare example of this artistic decoration from the period. This artwork demonstrates the care taken in designing the original building and remains a visual highlight of the structure.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
