Summary
One of France’s most beautiful medieval towns is situated on the banks of Europe’s cleanest lake. It truly is a remarkable destination. Nestled with canals, the historic streets of Annecy feature charming passageways that enhance its allure.
The lake is splendid, encircled by mountains and adorned with crystalline waters that beckon on hot summer days.
While you’ll frequently find yourself entranced by the stunning scenery—Lac d’Annecy is perpetually draped in a delicate mist—there is a plethora of activities to engage in and sites to visit. It is, after all, regarded as Europe’s premier outdoor sports capital.
Let us explore the best activities in Annecy:
1. Lac d’Annecy
Regardless of your motivation for visiting Annecy, the site of “Europe’s Cleanest Lake” will likely feature prominently in your itinerary.
Lake Annecy maintains its serene ambiance throughout the year, notwithstanding the bustling activities along its banks. In summer, it is perfectly understandable to while away hours lounging by the transparent waters at one of several beaches, appreciating the Alpine landscapes.
Two beaches, Plage la Brune at Veyrier-du-Lac and Plage Municipal in Saint-Jorioz, have received the Blue Flag designation for their exceptional water quality and facilities, which include restaurants, play areas, and lifeguard supervision.
2. Vieille Ville
Annecy bears the distinguished title of “Ville d’Art,” and its quaint old town encompasses 21 historical monuments.
The medieval center located by the Thiou River is exceptionally picturesque, featuring canals, arcaded pedestrian alleyways, and delightful passageways that invite continuous photography.
For an in-depth exploration of the city’s history and its unexpected remnants, consider enlisting a knowledgeable guide.
On Tuesdays, a vibrant food market takes place in the old center, introducing vivid colors and liveliness to the antique streets.
3. Jardins de l’Europe
It is difficult to envision a municipal park possessing more impressive panoramas than this one.
The Jardins de l’Europe is situated in front of Annecy’s city hall, and prior to the construction of the embankment and Vassé canal, it was a marshy island located outside the city limits.
In the 19th century, authorities designed an English-style garden, planting over 600 deciduous trees around the statue of the eminent chemist Claude-Louis Berthollet.
Regardless of the weather, one must stroll down to the water, relax on a bench, and marvel at the surrounding peaks, including La Tournette looming over the southeast shoreline.
4. Pont Des Amours
While Annecy boasts numerous picturesque bridges, none can rival the scenic charm of this lakeside structure.
Pont des Amours spans the Vassé canal, linking the Jardins de l’Europe with the Jacquet Promenade, a lovely pathway that offers additional breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
According to local lore, any couple who shares a kiss on this bridge will remain together for life.
The mountain vistas contribute to its romantic allure, but don’t forget to turn toward the city along the canal, which is bordered by trees and features charming jetties with small boats moored.
5. Palais de l’Île
You will not be the first to capture a photograph of this fortified palace from Pont Perriére, yet it remains a must.
Although it has undergone multiple reconstructions throughout its long history, the complex traces back to the 1100s and was historically home to noble families of the County of Geneva for centuries.
In the 17th century, the palace was repurposed as a prison, and following the Revolution, it served numerous roles, including a residence for veterans, a warehouse, and barracks.
Today, it hosts exhibitions that illuminate Annecy’s architecture and cultural heritage, allowing visitors to explore the former courtroom, dungeon, cells, and chapel.
6. Cathedral and Basilica
Saint-Pierre Cathedral is notable for its harmonious interaction with the water, being partly constructed over the canals.
This delightful Renaissance structure was completed in the 1500s; its seemingly subtle design stems from its elevation to cathedral status only in 1825. A steep ascent leads you to the Basilique de la Visitation, situated high on the southern outskirts of Annecy.
The tower of this 19th-century church is visible from afar and offers one of the most panoramic views of the city.
Inside, you will find the tombs of two saints, Francis de Sales and Jane Frances de Chantal.
7. Château d’Annecy
Previously the residence of the Counts of Geneva, Château d’Annecy was established between the 12th and 16th centuries, providing several compelling reasons to ascend the steep hill to this edifice.
You can spend time exploring the castle’s towers and halls, as well as a museum that offers insight into the lives of the itinerant rulers of Savoy.
Examine the extensive collections of medieval furniture, including beds, chests, chairs, and tables, alongside rare illuminated manuscripts.
Many visitors choose not to enter the château; rather, they enjoy one of the most iconic views of Annecy from the terrace.
8. Gorges du Fier
Situated just minutes west of the city is a stunning canyon carved by the Fier River.
Even within the renowned French Alps, famous for their striking natural features, this gorge stands out as a remarkable site to visit.
This is attributed to its accessibility: A series of walkways suspended 25 meters above the river allow you to admire the unique formations created by eons of erosion.
In certain areas, the gorge is so narrow that the cliffs nearly conjoin overhead, enabling you to touch the rock face from the opposing side.
Additionally, there is a free pathway leading to a natural pool where visitors can sunbathe and swim during the summer months.
9. Château de Montrottier
Enhance your visit to the Gorges du Fier by exploring this nearby castle, which overlooks the river.
Château de Montrottier, dating back to the 13th century, is open to the public during the summer months.
The architecture is striking, with a tall circular tower dominating the landscape.
However, the fascinating highlight is the collection of Léon Mares, a 19th-century explorer and avid collector.
Mares amassed invaluable items from around the globe, specifying in his will that his collection should be displayed precisely as he left it.
This 90-minute tour grants access to an extensive array of historic tapestries, antique weapons, armor, period furniture, ceramics, glassware, and many treasures he obtained during his travels in Asia and Africa.
10. Winter Sport
Annecy is conveniently located near ski resorts such as Manigod, La Clusaz, Le Grand Bornand, and Saint Jean de Sixt, making it an ideal ski destination.
If you seek a more cultured base than that of a typical village, Annecy is a charming location to return to after a day on the slopes, with all ski areas located within a 45-minute drive.
These resorts are situated at lower altitudes and are particularly accommodating to families and beginners: Manigod, for example, features 17 kilometers of gentle and wide slopes, while Le Semnoz offers short-term lift passes on an hourly or daily basis, providing flexibility.
La Clusaz is the most highly regarded, featuring the most challenging runs of all the resorts in the Annecy vicinity.
11. Watersports
A wide array of companies operates at Lake Annecy during the summer, offering almost any watersport under the warm July sun.
For those seeking high-speed excitement, activities such as waterskiing and wakeboarding are readily available.
Alternatively, you can embark on a paddle-boarding expedition or, for the more adventurous, attempt open-water swimming.
Due to its forgiving learning curve, paddle-boarding has become a favorite among families.
Above all, it provides a delightful opportunity to pause and admire the awe-inspiring views.
12. Hiking and Cycling
Along the lakeshore, numerous viewpoints present enchanting vistas of the lake and mountains.
Reaching these lookout points is equally enjoyable, as you traverse through upland pastures, orchards, and woods.
Consider seeking out the following locations: Le Taillefer, the Semnoz Plateau, the Laudon Circuit, the Oratory in Entrevernes, and the La Frasse Pass.
All routes are family-friendly and simply require a sturdy pair of shoes.
Lake Annecy also features the ultimate greenway for cyclists, commencing in the city and traversing the eastern shore of the lake, culminating in Marlens, located 35 kilometers away in the Fauverges Valley.
13. Local Food
Annecy is a paradise for cheese enthusiasts, given its presence within four designated production areas: Gruyère, Emmental de Savoie, Emmental français est-central, and Tomme de Savoie.
If you have a strong interest in cheese, you can seek out rural shops like Ferme de l’Angelie and Fromagerie du Cruet, where they sell their cheese directly from the farm, along with homemade jams and sausages.
A significant number of freshwater fishermen operate around the lake, anchoring their boats in the Vassé. The arctic char, perch, and trout they catch could very well be enjoyed at one of Annecy’s fine dining establishments on the same day.
14. Aix-les-Bains
A straightforward road trip southwest of Annecy leads to this historic spa town on the shores of Lac du Bourget, which was established by the Romans and gained immense popularity among Europe’s affluent in the 19th century.
Visitors came to benefit from the health-enhancing waters, resulting in the establishment of grand Belle Époque hotels, elegant townhouses, and a casino in Aix-les-Bains.
Whether you wish to indulge in gaming or simply admire the stunning art nouveau interiors, a visit to the Casino Grand Cercle is essential.
If you require revitalization following your outdoor activities at Lake Annecy, Aix-les-Bains remains a premier spa resort, featuring pools, saunas, and a wide range of restorative treatments.
15. Chambéry
Venture a bit further to discover this exquisite Alpine town, whose historic center beckons exploration.
Medieval structures, narrow alleyways, and Renaissance arcades have withstood the test of time, yet what is especially noteworthy is that they remain part of a vibrant working town, rather than preserved as static museum pieces.
A major attraction is the Fontaine des Éléphants, dedicated to Benoît de Boigne, a Napoleonic military leader who contributed to the training and leadership of the Maratha Empire against the British in India.
The Château de Chambéry is another of the palatial residences associated with the Counts of Savoy and continues to serve as a regional government building that welcomes tours.
