Top 10 things to do in Annemasse

Top 10 things to do in Annemasse

1 - Malbrande Castle or Red Castle

Malbrande Castle is considered a treasure of local heritage and a must-see for cultural outings with music, dance, theatrical and artistic performances... Don't expect to visit an old castle because there are no remains of the Red Castle . The latter was a fortified house built in the 16th century. It takes its name from a renovation of the facade by Baron Grand de Hauteville who had it covered with a scarlet coating.

2 - Saint Andrew's Church

This church was built in 1941 by the monk Dom Paulo Bello and the architect Jacques Bérenger. Its hexagonal shape and colorful mosaic tile roof are eye-catching. The Church of Saint Andrew , with its 32-meter neo-Gothic bell tower, is one of the oldest buildings in the city. The current church is the result of successive constructions, but the very first building was dedicated in 516 by Avitus, Bishop of Vienna. The "city" was then called Namasce. The current building was erected in 1860.

3 - The Villa du Parc

Since 1986, the Villa du Parc, in the heart of Montessuit Park, has housed the Contemporary Art Center. It organizes four to five exhibitions of contemporary artists each year. Enjoy guided tours for the whole family. There are truly some wonderful artistic discoveries to be made in this enchanting setting.
The Villa du Parc is a bourgeois house built in 1865. It has successively housed the Justice of the Peace, the police station, the court, etc.

Prices:

• guided tours:
• adult: 3 euros;
• free for children under 12.

4 - The Grand Casino

Looking for a relaxing time, a show, or a meal? Enter the Grand Casino d'Annemasse, part of the Partouche Group. You can try your luck on one of the 170 slot machines or opt for traditional games like English roulette, blackjack, battle, or Ultimate Poker. With the Partouche Group's Megapot, a two-euro bet can be enough to become a millionaire! Admission is free and reserved for those over 18.

5 - Cruise on Lake Geneva

Annemasse is only ten minutes from the southern corner of Petit Lac, the narrowest western end of Lake Geneva . It would be a shame to miss out on such an excursion .

At the Port of Geneva, you'll find a long line of boats for excursions on the lake. You can take a quick tour of the Petit Lac or opt for a much longer trip. It's also a great opportunity to admire the famous Jet d'Eau, which shoots 500 liters per second to a height of 140 meters.

6 - Get on your bike

Hop on your bike and explore the trails at the foot of the iconic Geneva mountain. Return via a mix of paths and secondary roads. From Salève, enjoy superb views of Geneva and Lake Geneva. Follow the Arve River toward the border through vineyards, orchards, and farmland. Guided excursions are available from March to November.

Numerous trails depart from Annemasse, whether along greenways, on cycle paths, or tackling major mountain passes. The Pierre aux Fées circuit, the Salève circuit, and the Tour du Môle—there's something for both the sporty and the less sporty.

Price:

• 80 euros with gravel or electric bike and guidance by app or GPS.

7 - Parks and gardens

Pleasant parks and gardens are scattered throughout the commune. You can also explore two orienteering trails, at Pralère Park and Montessuit Park.

Montessuit Park is the city's oldest park. Renovated in 2008, it covers two hectares in the city center. It's a relaxing place with remarkable trees and children's play areas. It also houses a contemporary art center.

8 - Hiking

Annemasse enjoys a privileged location in the heart of the Arve Valley, close to Mont Blanc, surrounded by the Voirons massif, the Aravis massif and Mont Salève.
The Voirons massif rises to an altitude of 1,480 meters. It offers an ideal view of Mont Blanc, Lake Geneva, and the Giffre Mountains. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might spot chamois or lynx.
Many walking trails start from Annemasse and you can experience a Franco-Swiss adventure off the beaten track at the foot of the Salève.

9 - Rafting down the Arve

For unique experiences, for ages 6 and up, treat yourself to a 2.5-hour rafting trip down the Arve River . If you're planning to go to Pont-Sierne in Switzerland, you can also arrive in Annemasse! From May to September, enjoy a three-hour rafting trip over seven kilometers, passing four waterfalls, and discover the surrounding areas of Geneva and Annemasse in a different way.

The Arve River flows from the Mont Blanc glacier and flows through Annemasse. Aboard a raft or canoe raft, the descent is unforgettable. It's an excellent way to discover whitewater sports in complete safety under the supervision of a guide.

Price:

• from 54 euros/person.

10 - The City Hall

Annemasse Town Hall is housed in a building with an interesting history. Built in the Third Republic style, it was originally a "town hall-school" built between 1882 and 1885 on the site of two farms. The pediment bears the town's motto: "Agere non loqui," meaning "Action rather than talk."