La Bénite Fontaine

La Roche-sur-Foron

According to tradition, people fleeing the plague epidemics of the 16th century found refuge in this small valley where an uncontaminated spring flowed. Between May and July 1617, fourteen cures were recorded there; Saint Francis de Sales, Prince-Bishop of Geneva, came in person on 24 June 1617, had the water tested, validated the cures in 1619 and had a chapel built dedicated to Our Lady of the Visitation. Nicknamed "the little Savoyard Lourdes", the sanctuary preserves a rare statue of the pregnant Virgin dating from 1620.

Getting there : Active sanctuary, free access, 1.5 km from La Roche-sur-Foron

Opening times and access details are given as a guide only: check before you set out.

Ambient sound