What to do in Annecy in summer and winter?

What to do in Annecy in summer and winter?

1 - The center of Annecy: Stroll through the old town

The center of Annecy , or old Annecy, has an incomparable cachet. The city is known for being crossed by numerous canals, including the main one, the Thiou Canal. This configuration has earned it the nickname "Venice of the Alps." Its cobbled streets, arcades, and colorful houses add to its charm. A stroll through the old town allows you to admire the elegance of its streets, stopping from time to time to eat at the restaurant, or to enjoy an ice cream at the famous Glacier des Alpes. Typical souvenirs of the region await you in the many shops in the center. During your walk, don't miss the Palais de l'Isle, located on an island in the Thiou Canal. It appeals to visitors with its location and numerous turrets.

2 - Visit the Annecy castle

Annecy Castle overlooks the old town, and one of its attractions is the panoramic views it offers visitors. It was the long-standing residence of the Counts of Geneva, and it's understandable why they chose it! The castle's oldest surviving feature, the Queen's Tower, dates back to the 12th century. The monument now houses a museum of traditional Savoyard art, as well as an exhibition retracing the natural history of the Alps.

3 - Take a romantic stroll on the Pont des Amours

The Venice of the Alps is, of course, a special place for all lovers. In addition to enjoying the scenery, couples can easily rediscover the magic of the famous Italian city. The Pont des Amours is one of Annecy's must-sees for a romantic stay . Simply walk along the Thiou Canal until you cross the Jardins de l'Europe and then arrive at the Pont des Amoureux. The setting is idyllic, and you can even add a padlock to those already there as a token of your eternal love. Then extend your walk to Le Pasquier, a place appreciated by tourists and locals alike for its panoramic views and relaxed atmosphere.

4 - Try the Segway experience

Have you heard of the Segway ? It's a futuristic, two-wheeled mode of transportation that's popping up in cities across France. The user stands upright and moves effortlessly (or almost!). Don't worry, it's very easy to learn how to get around with a Segway. Visiting Annecy this way allows you to try a new activity while sightseeing. With a top speed of around 6 km/h, you won't take any risks and can enjoy the view in peace. You can stroll through the streets of the old town or choose to venture onto the cycle paths around the lake. Gain height effortlessly by climbing up to Annecy Castle and the Basilica of the Visitation.

Price:

• Sightseeing tour: between €15 and €55

What to do in Annecy to enjoy the lake?

1 - Swim all day

Lake Annecy has no shortage of beaches . Its translucent waters are irresistible, and cooling off in the summer is a must. Choose from the many private and public beaches. Some inspire peace and quiet, while others feature diving boards and play areas for long, fun family sessions. The largest beach is Albigny Beach, located in Annecy-le-Vieux. Access is free. For those who love relaxing on the sand, some beaches will satisfy you. Spread out your towel in Saint-Jorioz, for example.

2 - Practice nautical activities

As with any body of water, there are plenty of water activities to choose from in Annecy. Are you already a wakeboarding enthusiast? Or are you looking for an introductory paddleboarding session? In any case, you'll find an activity center that will meet your expectations. For a peaceful moment, in perfect harmony with the calm of the lake and the surrounding nature, paddleboarding is the ideal activity. Although it requires a good sense of balance and perfect self-control, it is accessible to all.

Prices:

• Rental: around €15/hour
• Exit: around €45

3 - Take a boat ride

Admiring the lake from the shore is nothing like the spectacle you get from out at sea. This impression of immensity is unparalleled; you feel isolated from everything and surrounded by these intimidating mountains. It's an experience not to be missed. For a day, you can plan a picnic and enjoy it in the center of the lake or on a remote beach. In summer, take a dip from the boat offshore for a unique swim.

For a different experience, you can choose a cruise on the Libellule restaurant boat. Departing from Annecy, you'll spend 2.5 hours on the water and enjoy a meal in a unique setting.

Prices:

• Pedal boat rental: €12 / 30 min
• Motorboat: €30 / 30 min
• Boat rental: between €100 and €200/day

4 - Fishing on the lake

Lake Annecy is teeming with a variety of fish species: perch, trout, arctic char, pike, and more. Spend a day out on a boat and bring back a delicious evening meal! Fishing is a relaxing pastime that puts your patience and determination to the test. But waiting for the fish to bite while admiring the lake's magnificent scenery is pure pleasure.

To go fishing (line fishing or trolling for individuals), you will need a permit.

Lake Annecy is divided into two parts: the large lake, which is very pleasant but nevertheless very busy, and the small lake, which allows visitors to escape the tourists. There's only one boundary: the nature reserve located at the southern end of the lake, which is, of course, closed to fishing.

Prices:

• Motorboat rental: €30 / 30 min
• Permit: between €7 and €12 (day)
• Boat rental: between €100 and €200/day

What to do in Annecy when you love sports and thrills?

1 - Cycle around the lake

The Lake Annecy Greenway is renowned among cycling enthusiasts. It consists of 33 km of cycle paths laid out around the lake. The circuit is easy and offers constant breathtaking views, whether of the lake waters or the surrounding mountains. If you cycle the right way, clockwise, you'll avoid the main challenge: the climb to Talloires. A picnic area awaits you along the old railway line in Bredannaz. You'll even find an old steam locomotive there. Don't forget your swimsuit, as you'll have access to numerous beaches during your outing, some of which are isolated and difficult to access. Enjoy their tranquility away from the crowds of tourists.

2 - Take your first flight

Mountainous regions are particularly popular for a first flight. The incredible landscapes of Lake Annecy take on even more meaning when seen from the sky. Choose one of the many ways to take flight: microlight, paragliding, hang gliding, hot air balloon, or helicopter… and experience a unique moment in the atmosphere!

Prices:

• Paragliding flight: €90 for a 40 to 45 minute flight
• ULM: €100 accompanied by an air pilot
• Hot air balloon: expect to pay around €300
• Helicopter: €180

3 - Hiking in the surrounding area

Hiking is a natural choice when you're staying in Annecy for a while. It's a free and invigorating activity that allows you to discover the surrounding nature. Even if you're not a hiking enthusiast, some trails are very easy to access. Others, however, are only accessible to experienced hikers. La Tournette, for example, is one of the region's most famous hikes. However, its route includes sections with cables, ladders, and slippery rock. It's best reserved for the more experienced, who will be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Mont Blanc from the summit. Rest assured, the view is also magnificent from Mont Veyrier, which offers shaded, accessible trails.

4 - Practice winter sports

From November to April, the winter sports season is open in Annecy! A meeting point for many enthusiasts, the town is lively all winter long. You can choose downhill skiing for the sport and thrills, cross-country skiing for the peace and quiet of the alpine forests, snowboarding for the slides, or even sledding for laughter and relaxation. If you want to immerse yourself in nature, put on some snowshoes and meet the local flora and fauna. Many resorts are available around Annecy. It's a matter of choosing the one that meets your expectations. Le Semnoz, for example, is a small family resort accessible to all, while La Clusaz is an international resort that offers 132 km of slopes.

What to do in Annecy when you are a foodie?

1 - Taste regional specialties

Haute-Savoie is a region that offers many local specialties. As in all mountain regions, its traditional dishes are warm and comforting. The mountain pastures, of course, offer a wealth of cheeses and related dishes such as raclette, tartiflette, and Savoyard fondue. Less well-known, but no less nutritious, diots de Savoie are sausages cooked with onions and enjoyed with crozets. Blueberries are the star of the mountains. Picking a few wild blueberries while hiking is an unparalleled pleasure. However, be careful, as picking is regulated. Nevertheless, enjoy the specialties prepared by Annecy artisans such as blueberry tarts or blueberry beer. It's impossible not to mention génépi, the famous Alpine liqueur made from 40 different plants. It's ideal for digesting a good Savoyard fondue.

2 - Participate in a cheese tasting

Cheese is an emblem of Haute-Savoie and the mountains in general. It is made from the delicious milk that cows produce while grazing in the verdant mountain pastures. And each variety of cheese expresses the richness of the greenery and mountain flora. Honor this heritage by visiting farms to understand the production mechanisms, meet the cheese refiners, and of course taste and appreciate the subtleties of each cheese. Reblochon, Tomme de Savoie, Chevrotin, Abondance, and Beaufort are consumed year-round in Annecy. There, you will find the shop of Pierre Gay, Meilleur Ouvrier de France (Best Craftsman of France) in the Master Cheesemaker category. Let yourself be guided by his formidable palate and vast knowledge during a cheese tasting with the added bonus of a Savoie food and wine pairing.

3 - Shopping on market day

The market is held several times a week in Annecy's old town, along the canal and in the narrow streets of the center. Visit on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. You'll be amazed by the stalls overflowing with local products, each more appetizing than the last. Chat with the merchants and let yourself be seduced by the generosity of the Savoyards. Go in search of the best sausage, an innovative craft beer, or the perfect cheese platter. Don't forget to take breaks to enjoy a sweet treat or a nice hot coffee.

What to do in Annecy to relax and have a good time?

1 - Admire the view from the Semnoz

The Semnoz is probably the easiest hike near Lake Annecy. You can drive to the summit! Once there, the views of the lake and mountains are sensational. If you still want to stretch your legs, there are many hiking trails starting from the summit. In winter, bring your snowshoes or cross-country skis and set off on an adventure! To get back down, you have two options: your car if you're up for it, or mountain biking! Accessible to beginners, it offers a range of thrills.

Price:

• Half day with a guide: €45

2 - Participate in the Venetian carnival

At the beginning of March, hundreds of people gather in Annecy to parade through the streets. Dressed in costumes and masked, they are inspired by the famous Venice Carnival . Since it's going to be called the Venice of the Alps, it's worth going all the way! Annecy is organizing a weekend of festivities and celebrations centered around the Venetian Carnival. The spectacle is spectacular and the activities are varied: face painting workshops, mask making, dance balls... It's an excellent time to come to Annecy, but remember to book your accommodation in advance, as the carnival is very popular.

3 - Relax in a spa

Lake Annecy is the perfect place for a rejuvenating stay. Between the clear water and the sumptuous mountains, energies converge to invite relaxation . There's no shortage of spas and massage parlors around the lake. You can choose to spend the day between the jacuzzi, sauna, and hammam, or try all the massage variations. Establishments generally offer cabins with views of the landscape, as well as relaxation areas in harmony with nature. To go further, book an entire thalassotherapy stay, take a yoga course, or try a detox treatment for the first time.

What to do in Annecy and the surrounding area?

1 - Discover old Savoyard villages

Now that you're familiar with Annecy and its cobbled streets, it's time to explore the surrounding villages. They're true witnesses to the past and the unique life led by mountain dwellers in bygone times. The religious and historical monuments they contain tell us the history of the region. Annecy-le-Vieux , not to be confused with old Annecy, can be a good starting point. Primarily residential, it's no less charming, especially since the famous Michelin-starred restaurant "Le Clos des Sens" is located there. A little further on, Talloires should catch your eye. It's ideally located in a very pretty bay on Lake Annecy. Duingt is worth a visit for its two majestic castles.

2 - Visit the Lake Annecy Ecomuseum

The Savoyards of the 19th century had an extraordinary daily life. Snow and the difficulties of getting around in winter, like the ritual of transhumance in summer, are specificities that only mountain dwellers know. Located in Sévrier, the Lake Annecy Ecomuseum opens our eyes to this extraordinary way of life during a fun and interactive visit. It also adds an extra dimension by inviting visitors to reflect on the future and ecology. Would drawing inspiration from yesterday's world to build tomorrow's world be a viable option?

3 - Venture to Geneva and Lake Geneva

Just 42 km north of Annecy, this famous international city can be visited in one or two days. This is your chance to discover the metropolis that houses the United Nations headquarters, where many guided tours are available. Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, Geneva is full of attractions, starting with the spectacular Jet d'Eau fountain that can be seen from the port. The old town can be explored on foot and offers a promenade punctuated by beautiful monuments, interesting museums, and pleasant cafés for a break whenever you like. To see the city from a different perspective, take a cruise on Lake Geneva. It's another way to appreciate the immensity of this 580 km² body of water.