Source Cachat

## Overview Source Cachat is one of the most celebrated natural springs in the French Alps, located in the elegant lakeside town of Évian-les-Bains on the southern shore of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) in the Haute-Savoie department of France. This is the very spring that gave birth to the world-famous Evian brand of mineral water, and it has been a destination for water seekers for well over two centuries. The spring rises at 3B Avenue des Sources in the heart of Évian-les-Bains, where naturally filtered glacial water emerges after a journey of roughly 15 years through layers of glacial sand and protected underground aquifers in the Chablais Alps. The water has historically been prized for its mineral balance and purity, and the spring has been classified as a natural mineral water source by French authorities since the 19th century. The water is naturally cool and has been reported to have a smooth, clean taste with a balanced mineral profile — low in sodium and with traces of calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonates. The story of Source Cachat dates back to 1789, when a local nobleman, the Marquis de Lessert, reportedly discovered the spring's waters while walking through the area. He believed the water improved his health, and word of the spring's reputed benefits spread quickly. By the early 1800s, Évian-les-Bains had become a fashionable spa destination, and the spring was formally developed for public access. The Cachat spring was named after the owner of the garden where it was originally found. Today, Source Cachat is a public drinking fountain where visitors and locals alike can fill bottles with the same naturally mineralized water that is bottled and sold worldwide. The spring is housed in an attractive pavilion-style structure and is freely accessible. It remains a beloved local landmark and a point of civic pride for the town of Évian-les-Bains. ## Directions 1. **By car:** From Geneva, take the A40 motorway toward Thonon-les-Bains, then follow the D1005 east along the southern shore of Lake Geneva to Évian-les-Bains. The drive is approximately 45 km (about 50 minutes). 2. **Once in Évian-les-Bains**, head toward the town center and look for signs to Avenue des Sources. The spring is located at 3B Avenue des Sources, just a short walk from the lakefront promenade and the famous Evian thermal baths. 3. **By public transport:** Évian-les-Bains has a train station (SNCF) with connections from Thonon-les-Bains and other regional towns. From the station, Source Cachat is about a 10-minute walk uphill through the town center. 4. **GPS coordinates:** 46.3997, 6.5916. Parking is available in the town center, though spaces can be limited during peak tourist season (summer months). ## What to Expect Source Cachat is an easy, urban spring to visit — no hiking required. The spring is located in a well-maintained public area along Avenue des Sources, surrounded by the charming architecture and manicured gardens that characterize Évian-les-Bains. The water flows freely from a public spout, and visitors are welcome to bring bottles to fill. The flow is consistent year-round, as the spring is fed by deep underground aquifers. The water emerges naturally cool, typically around 11–13°C (52–55°F). Historically, the water has been considered among the finest natural mineral waters in Europe, though as with any natural source, visitors should use their own discretion. The surrounding area is worth exploring: the Evian thermal spa complex, the beautiful lakefront promenade along Lake Geneva, and the Palais Lumière cultural center are all within easy walking distance. The town itself is a charming base for exploring the French side of Lake Geneva and the nearby Chablais Alps. The spring can get busy, especially during summer when tourists flock to the area. Early mornings or weekday visits tend to be quieter. There is no fee to access the spring or fill water bottles.