Chambery, France

Chambery (population 59,000) is situated at the foot of the French Alps next to Lake du Bourget, the largest natural lake in France. This fountain, situated in the city's most prominent square, ranks as one of the coolests I've ever come across. That's General Benoit de Boigne atop the fountain--see next photo.  

Yep, those are life-size elephants (four of 'em) with water spewing out their trunks. What the heck? General Benoit de Boigne (1751-1830), who's also a Count, was born in Chambery and was a military adventurer. Boigne's travels took him to India where he made a huge fortune. Eventually returning to Chambery the Count became a very generous benefactor establishing charities for the needy and poor as well as donating money for building roads and churches. 

Built in 1838 to honor General Benoit de Boigne's exploits in India, it's the city's most famous landmark. The Elephants Fountain is the formal name but, there's an informal name: Les Quatre Sans Culs--which translates to "the four without asses" 

The local ice hockey team is called the Chambery Elephants. Doesn't exactly conjure images of fast moving hockey players. 

That is Chateau Chambery. Dating back to 1285, this fortress is now a regional Administrative complex.

This is the backside of Chateau Chambery.

Inside the chateau's courtyard stands Sainte-Chapelle. 

Still can see parts of the chateau's medieval fortifications.

Street scene in Chambers city center.

So, this is my reason for visiting Chambery. This building dates back to 1832 and is a listed historical landmark. The name above the door "Au  Fidele Berger" translates to "Faithful Shepherd". Ever since 1832 it has housed a patisserie. Behind the woman--near the entrance door is a silver plaque with the words "Relais Desserts". So? Well, if you've been following my blog you know

I have a big sweet tooth. 

Relais Desserts is an organization of about 100 pastry chefs and chocolate makers from 19 countries with the overwhelming majority located in France. They like to think of themselves as the creme de la creme of sweet makers. During my travels I've visited about two dozen. 

Cedric Pernot, whose name you see in the window, has been here since 2011. 

I've recently been fixated on Paris-Brests so I tried one. Somewhat similar to a cream puff. It was good but not good enough for me to grab another. 

These cakes looked yummy.