Known for its regal aura, the city of Chambery is nestled in a valley between Annecy and Grenoble in the Rhone-Alpes region of France, and still functions as one of the country’s main gateways to Italy. Perhaps this could explain the Italian air about the town, which is sensibly laid out with streets leading to the Fontaine des Elephants.

This magnificent fountain is considered extravagant by some, as it features the heads of four enormous bronze elephants bowing to the raised figure of the Comte de Boigne – a prominent man who left the town much of his considerable wealth after realizing amazing commercial success in India.

The old quarter of Chambery is lovely, replete with a number of shaded courtyards and crisscrossed with wonderful cobbled streets. While touring the old town, be sure to stop by the Chateau des Ducs de Savoie, a 14th century castle that was once home to the Dukes of Savoie.