Saint-Galmier – Badoit & old town - Image 1
1 / 10

Saint-Galmier Badoit and Old Town

4.2
·231 reviews·Saint-Galmier, France

Discover the source of Badoit sparkling water and wander through the historic streets of Saint-Galmier.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds at the factory

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Saint-Galmier – Badoit & old town - Image 1

Saint-Galmier Badoit and Old Town

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds at the factory

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the source of Badoit sparkling water and wander through the historic streets of Saint-Galmier.

4.2
(231 reviews)

"The Badoit factory tour is unique, but be prepared for strict rules; the old town offers charming respite."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Strict Factory Dress Code

Long pants & closed shoes are a MUST for the Badoit factory tour. No exceptions!

⏰ Factory Tour Process

Expect a multi-step registration, video, and Q&A before getting your ticket and pager.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Badoit Factory Tour

Badoit Factory Tour

Saint-Galmier

Discover the secrets behind the famous Badoit sparkling water production. A unique industrial tour experience.

Saint-Galmier Old Town

Saint-Galmier Old Town

Saint-Galmier

Wander through charming streets and historic architecture in this picturesque French town.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Dress Code for Badoit Factory Tours

Visiting the Badoit factory requires a strict dress code: long pants and closed-toe shoes are mandatory. No bare arms or legs allowed, even in summer. This is a key point of frustration for many visitors, so plan accordingly to avoid disappointment.Reddit

Booking and Access for Badoit

Access to the Badoit factory involves a multi-step process: register at a machine, watch a video, answer questions, and then receive a ticket and pager. Be prepared for a potentially lengthy wait and rigid security protocols.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds at the factory
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Old town exploration
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#evian #volvic #badoit #danone #greenwashing
@wecare_app
16.4K likes • 160.9K views

🧥 Strict Factory Dress Code

Long pants & closed shoes are a MUST for the Badoit factory tour. No exceptions! Reddit

⏰ Factory Tour Process

Expect a multi-step registration, video, and Q&A before getting your ticket and pager. Reddit

The lost waters of the world: Badoit #watersommelier #water #h2o #badoit #martinriese #fyp #foryou #forgoupage #fy #france #loire #danone #h2o
@martinrieseofficial
650 likes • 15.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Old Town

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Saint-Galmier's charming streets and historic buildings. :walking:

🚗 Parking for Factory

Drive into the designated parking lot for the Badoit factory tour. :car:

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Strict Factory Dress Code

Long pants & closed shoes are a MUST for the Badoit factory tour. No exceptions! Reddit

⏰ Factory Tour Process

Expect a multi-step registration, video, and Q&A before getting your ticket and pager. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Old Town

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Saint-Galmier's charming streets and historic buildings. :walking:

🚗 Parking for Factory

Drive into the designated parking lot for the Badoit factory tour. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(231 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Reviews for Saint-Galmier Badoit and Old Town are mixed, with many praising the Badoit factory's unique industrial tour and the charm of the old town. However, significant criticism is directed at the factory's overly strict and inconvenient dress code and entry procedures, which have led to disappointment for some visitors.

"Very nice building"

Chen Xin-klein

"Ok"

Paculea Mihai

"Cool"

Andre Bertaux

What People Like

Interesting factory tour
Charming old town
Unique industrial insight

What People Dislike

Strict dress code
Rigid entry process
Unwelcoming attitude

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Saint-Galmier is accessible by car, with parking available near the Badoit factory and in the old town. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus schedules is recommended if you're not driving.

Yes, there is a designated parking lot for visitors to the Badoit factory. You'll drive into it as part of the tour process.Reddit

While possible, it may be more challenging. Research local bus routes from Saint-Étienne or nearby towns. Having a car offers the most flexibility for exploring both the factory and the old town.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Booking involves registering at a machine on-site, watching a video, answering questions, and then receiving a ticket and pager. It's a structured process.Reddit

A strict dress code is enforced: long pants and closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Bare arms and legs are prohibited, even in warm weather.Reddit

Information on age restrictions is not readily available, but the process involves a video and Q&A, suggesting it's geared towards adults or older children. It's best to contact the factory directly for specifics.

Pricing details for the Badoit factory tour are not widely published. Visitors typically go through the on-site registration process to obtain tickets.Reddit

The process described involves on-site registration, suggesting that reservations might not be strictly required, but it's always wise to check their official website or contact them for the most up-to-date information.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The tour involves a registration process, watching an informational video, answering questions, and then waiting for your pager to be called for the production area. Facilities like toilets and showers are available.Reddit

Given the strict dress code and the informational video/Q&A format, it's likely more suited for older children and adults. The rigidity of the rules might not appeal to very young children.

The old town offers charming streets, historic architecture, and a pleasant atmosphere for a leisurely walk. It's a good contrast to the industrial nature of the Badoit factory.

Yes, the Badoit factory provides toilet and shower facilities for visitors.Reddit

Photography policies within industrial facilities can vary. It's best to inquire on-site or check their official guidelines before assuming photos are permitted, especially in production areas.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Saint-Galmier has local eateries and cafes in its old town where you can find refreshments and meals after your factory visit.

While not explicitly mentioned, many factory tours offer a gift shop or opportunity to purchase products. It's worth checking if this is available.

📸 📸 Photography

The charming streets and historic buildings of the old town offer picturesque opportunities. Look for quaint architecture and scenic alleyways.

Photography rules in industrial settings are often strict. It's advisable to confirm with the factory staff on the day of your visit regarding where and if photos are allowed.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting Saint-Galmier should be aware that the Badoit factory tour has a very strict dress code (long pants, closed shoes) that might be challenging with young children, especially in summer.Reddit The multi-step entry process and informational video might also be less engaging for very young kids. However, if the dress code is met, it can be an educational experience about how their favorite drinks are made.

For a more relaxed family outing, exploring the Saint-Galmier old town is a great option. It offers a pleasant environment for a stroll, and children can enjoy discovering the historic streets. Pack accordingly for the factory tour, and consider the old town as a more universally appealing activity for all ages.

🚶 Budget Travelers

Visiting Saint-Galmier can be a budget-friendly option, especially if you focus on exploring the old town. While the Badoit factory tour has an entry process, its cost is not widely advertised, suggesting it might be free or low-cost, but the strict requirements could be a barrier. The main expense would likely be transportation and any food or souvenirs.

To save money, pack your own snacks and water (though you'll be at a water factory!). Enjoy the free exploration of the old town's charming streets. If the Badoit tour is free, it's a great value, but be mindful of the potential need to purchase specific clothing if you don't already meet the dress code.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Badoit Factory Experience: More Than Just Water

The Badoit factory tour in Saint-Galmier offers a unique glimpse into the production of a well-known French sparkling water. However, visitors should be prepared for a highly structured and somewhat rigid entry process. This includes registering at a machine, watching an informational video, and answering questions before being issued a ticket and pager.Reddit The strict dress code, requiring long pants and closed-toe shoes, has been a point of contention for some, even in warm weather, leading to frustration for those who aren't prepared.Reddit

Despite the logistical hurdles, the tour provides insight into the industrial side of beverage production. Facilities like toilets and showers are available for visitors.Reddit For those who comply with the regulations, it can be an interesting experience to see how their favorite bubbly water is made. However, the company's perceived lack of flexibility with visitor comfort has led to negative feedback, with some visitors feeling unwelcome if they don't meet the stringent requirements.Reddit

It's crucial to manage expectations regarding the Badoit factory visit. While it offers a behind-the-scenes look, the emphasis on strict protocols means it might not be the most relaxed or spontaneous tourist activity. Planning ahead, especially regarding attire, is key to a smoother experience. For those interested in industrial tourism and the specifics of water bottling, it can be a worthwhile, albeit regulated, visit.

Exploring the Charm of Saint-Galmier's Old Town

Beyond the industrial allure of the Badoit factory, Saint-Galmier boasts a charming old town that offers a delightful contrast. Visitors can wander through its picturesque streets, admiring the historic architecture and soaking in the authentic French atmosphere. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, offering a more relaxed pace compared to the structured factory tour.

The old town provides a glimpse into the local life and history of the region. You'll find quaint buildings, perhaps small local shops, and a sense of tranquility. It’s an ideal spot to unwind, take photos of the charming scenery, and enjoy a coffee or a meal at a local establishment. The contrast between the modern industrial site and the historic town center makes Saint-Galmier a place with diverse appeal.

For those visiting the Badoit factory, dedicating time to explore the old town is highly recommended. It offers a more traditional tourist experience and a chance to appreciate the beauty of a small French commune. It’s a reminder that Saint-Galmier is not just about its famous water, but also a place with its own unique character and historical charm.

You may also like

1 of 2