As well as offering many walking trails and breathtaking views, Lake Annecy is also a place where local residents like to go for a swim when temperatures permit.
However, if these activities aren’t your thing, the lake has plenty of other surprises in store that make it a pleasant destination in summer or winter.
To give you a better understanding of what Lake Annecy has to offer, we’ll tell you about the climate and what there is to do, season by season, before looking at the events that bring this magnificent lake to life.
Average Temperatures at Lake Annecy
As you would expect, the temperature at Lake Annecy changes with the seasons, and is quite different if you come in the winter or summertime. First of all, rest assured: you’ll be able to have a swim here; you’ll probably want to take a dip during the peak season in July and August, when the water temperature is around 27 degrees Celsius, but the water tends to stay warm even during the months of September and October.
That said, you’re likely to see bathers throughout the year at Lake Annecy, despite lower temperatures. In the winter, between December and February, the water temperature drops to 5 degrees Celsius.
The Best Times to Visit Lake Annecy
As with the rest of mainland France, Lake Annecy offers a whole host of contrasting vistas throughout the year, depending on the season: lush green mountains in springtime, activities on the lake in the summer, golden forests in autumn and snow-covered landscapes in winter. Let’s take a look at what each season has to offer:
Lake Annecy in spring
Springtime on Lake Annecy is an enchanting season when nature slowly rouses from her slumber: flower buds appear, the mountains shed their white mantle and, little by little, the days get longer.
The weather is ideal for visiting tourist sites such as the Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, a historic site from the 13th century that offers visitors a breathtaking view of the lake. If you’re looking to take in the views from above, head to Mount Minthi and treat yourself to a paragliding flight: one of the most incredible panoramas in the world awaits you from the skies!
Last but not least, this season’s mild weather is perfect for a ramble around the lake or a simple stroll to the cafés on the shore.
Lake Annecy in summer
The warm temperatures and mild summer weather mean that tourists can enjoy all the activities the region has to offer.
So, in addition to choosing one of the various walking trails, you can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lake and soak up the sun in a calm, relaxed atmosphere. Thrill-seekers can climb the surrounding mountains to discover the local flora and fauna.
What’s more, the region really comes alive at the weekend, thanks to the various markets, concerts and festivals that are set up on the streets of Annecy. So you can always enjoy a warm and festive atmosphere! As well as swimming, you can also take part in water sports on the lake, such as windsurfing and kayaking, in crystal-clear waters at an ideal temperature.
Lake Annecy in autumn
During the autumn months, Lake Annecy is rich in colour: Mother Nature is decked out in shades of gold and red, making the season ideal for making historical discoveries. Explore the gardens in the nearby villages, such as Saint-Jorioz, where the flowers are replaced by vibrant leaves, or storm the châteaux, such as the one mentioned earlier, with temperatures being pleasantly mild.
Lake Annecy in winter
Winter transforms the Lake Annecy landscape into a blank canvas, allowing the contours of old Savoie to appear.
Temperatures are cooler and the weather can be unpredictable, adding to the charm of this time of year and making for a unique tourist experience.
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As well as enjoying the delightful snow, you can meander through the villages on the shores of Lake Annecy to soak up the festive decorations on display in the run-up to Christmas. You can always go hiking if the cold and snow-covered hills are what you’re after – you won’t regret it! Winter is also a great time for cultural visits, but don’t forget to stop off at a café for a hot chocolate!
Events and Festivities at Lake Annecy
In addition to seasonal events, Lake Annecy is a place where festivities take place all year round. For example, tourists visiting in the summer can attend the Annecy Lake Festival, a fantastic pyrotechnic show featuring music, lights and fireworks.
In the autumn, and more specifically on the second Saturday in October, tourists can watch the Descent From the Mountain Pastures, one of Annecy’s traditional celebrations that marks the return of the cattle from the high pastures after the summer season. Finally, if your trip to Lake Annecy is business related, you can attend the Foire de la Saint-André (Saint-André Trade Fair), an event that takes place on the first Tuesday of December.
We’re sure you know by now that no matter the weather or season, there’s always something to do around Lake Annecy!
Lakeside Services and Accommodation
There are several types of accommodation available around Lake Annecy, depending on the season: in summer, you can enjoy the surrounding countryside by taking your tent with you and setting up camp in one of the many campsites along the lake, and in the colder months, you can find a chalet in one of the region’s villages to enjoy the wintry atmosphere.
In short, there’s something for everyone! To give you some ideas on what to do according to the season, we invite you to visit our website, which is packed with options and services.
Book your accommodation around Lake Annecy according to the season!
With its majestic mountains, picturesque villages and varied climate, Lake Annecy’s rich cultural heritage offers something for everyone, whatever the season and whatever the temperature! And we do the same: with our tailor-made accommodation packages, Location Lac Annecy invites you to visit the region any time of year. You’re just a few clicks away from an unforgettable holiday on Lake Annecy, so don’t delay!
