Summary of Key Attractions
This French town on the border with Switzerland is essentially a suburb of Geneva, where the majority of its inhabitants are employed. Consequently, while Annemasse may not be a primary destination for sightseeing, its true worth is revealed through numerous activities within a short drive.
The center of Geneva, alongside its vibrant culture, parks, and museums, will undoubtedly capture your interest, and the breathtaking natural surroundings present ample opportunities for excursions. You might embark on a cruise to explore Lake Geneva or the Rhône River, or direct your travels toward the Alps for various outdoor adventures throughout the seasons.
Let us delve into the top attractions in Annemasse:
1. Mont Salève Cable Car
Known as the “Balcony of Geneva,” this cable car transports visitors 1,000 meters in just five minutes from its northern slope.
Upon reaching the summit, the mountain’s designation will become abundantly clear, revealing striking views that will captivate all who visit. The stunning vistas of Geneva, the lake, and the Jura Mountains create an unforgettable experience.
Additionally, Salève offers an outdoor playground for hiking, mountain biking, and climbing, and for those seeking a challenge, exploring the southeastern face presents breathtaking views of the Alps.
2. Out and About in Annemasse
Numerous political and economic motivations contributed to the emergence of this commuter town just a few kilometers from Geneva after World War I.
What started as a small village in 1913 has transformed into a sizeable town of 35,000 residents today.
Accommodations in Annemasse typically offer more affordable rates compared to those in Geneva, complemented by a diverse selection of restaurants and both French and international brand retailers.
During mornings, the market square bustles with activity, featuring stalls surrounding a solemn memorial dedicated to World War II.
Additionally, make sure to capture a photograph in front of the Town Hall before proceeding to one of the many captivating attractions nearby.
3. Geneva Cathedral
The esteemed Reformation theologian John Calvin passed away in Geneva in 1564, having spent a significant portion of his life in this city.
The city’s cathedral reflects his influence, particularly through its minimalist decor. Following the adoption of Protestantism, much of the ornamentation was removed, retaining only the stained glass windows due to replacement costs.
Inside, one can view a wooden chair used by John Calvin, alongside Switzerland’s largest collection of Gothic and Romanesque capitals.
Interestingly, the cathedral’s history extends far beyond its striking neoclassical facade, with origins dating back to the 4th century and later reconstructions in the 1100s and 1400s.
4. Lake Geneva
Annemasse is located merely ten minutes from the southern point of the Petit Lac, which represents the narrower western section of Lake Geneva.
The area where the lake transitions into the Rhône divides the city into two halves: the commercial districts to the east and residential neighborhoods to the west.
Regardless of your location within the city, Lake Geneva is always nearby, easily accessible via waterfront promenades such as Promenade du Lac at the Jardin Anglais.
The Rhône River is also delightful in its picturesque surroundings, enhanced by a series of bridges that connect the islands within the river.
5. Jet d’Eau
A universally recognized landmark in Geneva, the Jet d’Eau is a fountain located on the lake that has inspired similar projects in various global cities.
The fountain projects 500 liters of water per second to an impressive height of 140 meters, making it visible from numerous locations throughout the city, even as high as 10,000 meters above.
At the Jetée des Eaux-Vives, visitors can stand directly beneath the fountain, which was relocated to this site in 1891, capturing splendid photographs of this iconic sight.
Interestingly, the Jet d’Eau was initially constructed as an outlet for a hydraulic power system in 1886, rather than as a monument. Popular acclaim led to its relocation nearer to the city just a few years afterwards.
6. Patek Philippe Museum
Given your proximity to Geneva, it is appropriate to explore the realm of luxury watches and horology.
Patek Philippe was established in the 19th century through a collaboration between Polish entrepreneur Antoni Patek and French watchmaker Adrien Philippe.
The museum features an engaging narrative about their partnership, complemented by four floors of exquisite horological displays that trace not only the history of this prestigious brand but also the overall watchmaking industry in Geneva, dating back to the 1500s.
Individuals interested in the mechanics of timepieces will be captivated by the third floor, which showcases the original desk, machinery, and tools utilized in the production of early Patek Philippe watches.
7. Place du Bourg-de-Four
One street adjacent to the cathedral hosts Geneva’s central square.
If you happen to be in the city for shopping or dining in the evening, chances are you will make your way to Place du Bourg-de-Four.
Notably, the square possesses an unconventional hourglass shape, narrowing in front of the Palais du Justice.
On the weekend nearest to December 11, this square becomes the backdrop for pageantry, reenactments, and parades commemorating l’Escalade, which celebrates the historic night when the city repelled a surprise attack from the Duke of Savoy’s army in 1602.
8. Natural History Museum
Given that Geneva can be an expensive destination, free attractions such as this museum are particularly valuable.
However, even with an admission fee, this superb museum remains an essential visit.
The dinosaur skeletons located on the third floor attract significant attention, accompanied by prehistoric mammals, allowing visitors to start their journey at the top and descend through the various galleries.
On the floor below, eight aquariums display species from the Mediterranean and Indian Ocean, while further down, an immersive reconstruction depicting the African Savannah awaits exploration.
9. Musée d’Art et d’Histoire (MAH)
As one of Switzerland’s three foremost museums, the MAH offers a comprehensive collection of artwork, decorative items, and archaeological artifacts of national significance.
The museum dazzles visitors with its vast array of works from influential artists, including Cézanne, Monet, Picasso, Rubens, and Veronese, with an emphasis on Impressionism and Mannerism.
Furthermore, it houses premier collections of ancient Swiss archaeology, showcasing numerous galleries filled with statues, sarcophagi, ceramics, and everyday items like combs and toys.
In terms of applied arts, one can explore exquisite enamel, watches, tapestries, lace, as well as a hall of armor that recounts the earlier mentioned story of the Escalade.
10. CERN Tour
From the heart of Geneva, visitors can take a tram to one of the most significant facilities in 21st-century physics, housing the Large Hadron Collider, a marvel of engineering.
This experience offers the potential for prolonged engagement, as it is beneficial to familiarize yourself with CERN’s groundbreaking work and refresh your knowledge of fundamental physics and chemistry concepts prior to your visit.
This preparation allows for insightful questions during the guided tour, which effectively distills complex particle science into a format that is comprehensible for most participants.
11. Bains des Paquis
Offering a perfect view of the Jet d’Eau, Bains des Paquis is a bathing area situated on a pier extending from the right bank of the lake.
In the summer, guests can sunbathe or swim in the lake’s refreshing waters at the outdoor pool.
If you’re adventurous, you may opt for a swim in winter, although most visitors tend to enjoy walks or the saunas and steam rooms during this season.
The onsite restaurant provides delightful, reasonably priced meals and draws a diverse mix of Geneva’s residents.
In the evenings, guests can enjoy mulled wine and fondue by the fire in a lively atmosphere.
12. Parc La Grange
The largest green space in Geneva is conveniently located just five kilometers from Annemasse.
This park offers a serene retreat throughout the year; however, summer is particularly enchanting, showcasing the city’s largest rose garden in full bloom, boasting 10,000 roses of 200 varieties.
Summer evenings bring cultural events, including plays at the Théâtre de l’Orangerie and outdoor concerts of all genres at the Théâtre de Verdure amphitheater.
During the day, families can enjoy the expansive paddling pools and playgrounds, or relax over a picnic while taking advantage of one of four complimentary Wi-Fi hotspots.
13. Cruises
In Geneva’s harbor, you will encounter a wide array of boat tours available for exploration.
For those with limited time, a brief trip around the Petit Lac provides a refreshing perspective of the cityscape.
Alternatively, if you wish to devote an entire day, numerous options are at your disposal.
One such option includes traveling to the picturesque French south shore of the lake, visiting Yvoire, a medieval walled village renowned as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France.” However, the tranquil banks of the Rhône are also an inviting alternative, offering a scenic float down to Verbois amidst picturesque gorges and nesting waterfowl.
14. Les Voirons
Situated just east of Annemasse, this 1,480-meter peak emerges prominently.
In approximately ten minutes from the town, one can find parking and begin the ascent, rewarded at the summit with breathtaking panoramic views that will remain etched in memory.
From this vantage point, you can oversee Mont Blanc, the entirety of Lake Geneva, and the Montagnes du Giffre.
Les Voirons is one peak along the GR du Balcon du Léman, a long-distance trail that showcases the finest natural viewpoints along the French southern shore of Lake Geneva.
15. Regional Cuisine
If there is a dish emblematic of Savoy and Switzerland, it is fondue.
For those unfamiliar, fondue consists of a mixture of cheeses, primarily Gruyère or its French counterpart Beaufort, melted with white wine.
Diners utilize long forks to dip bread into the decadent, melted cheese.
Melted cheese is also featured in raclette, served with potatoes and pairs beautifully with white wine.
The Italian influence is present in crozets, small pasta squares frequently enjoyed with additional melted cheese and diot, a regional sausage.
Nearly as renowned as fondue, tartiflette is a potato gratin, composed of onions, lardons, and, unsurprisingly, melted cheese.
