Located in Haute-Savoie, France, Lake Annecy is a peaceful and must-visit destination for anyone exploring the surroundings of the city of Annecy.
Renowned for the cleanliness of its waters, Lake Annecy is fed by mountain springs such as Eau Morte, Ire, and Laudon. Spanning 14.6 kilometres in length and covering an area of 27.59 square kilometres, the lake is surrounded by natural wonders to explore on foot or by bike. Here are some highlights to help you make the most of the things to do in and around Lake Annecy!
Aquatic Activities Around Lake Annecy
The activities on and around Lake Annecy are plentiful: whether gentle or sporty, the experience is well worth it, as the lake’s water is famously clear and pristine. Here are some unique aquatic activities you can enjoy:
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Glide along the natural reserve or enjoy a stunning sunset while standing on a paddleboard at your own pace.
- Sailing: Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, embark on an adventure aboard a catamaran, dinghy, or windsurf board for optimal thrills!
- Snorkelling: Explore the underwater world of Lake Annecy with snorkelling, scuba diving, or even freediving! You can observe aquatic plants, shells, crustaceans, pike, and more.
- Canoeing and Kayaking: Get close to nature with a canoe or kayak! Explore the shores and underwater landscapes alone or with others for an unforgettable experience.
Other activities include fishing or more adventurous options like canyoning, where you can trace some of the waterways feeding into the lake. Lake Annecy truly offers something for everyone, both on-site and in its surroundings.
Natural Trails and Routes Around the Lake
There are various paths to explore Lake Annecy depending on where you’d like to start your walk or hike. Since 2013, the Tourist Office and the SILA (Lake Annecy Joint Syndicate) have developed a 43-kilometre walking route that circles the lake. This route lets you enjoy the diverse natural and urban landscapes bordering the lake, including fields, marshes, nature reserves, and developed parks.
Different trails offer unique experiences. The simplest is the Lake Annecy loop, a walk that follows the lake’s edge. It is mostly flat except for some sloped sections, such as the part between Talloires and Veyrier. Notably, 10 kilometres of this route are wheelchair accessible, with 12 kilometres of paths and 30 kilometres of paved roads. There are also mountain biking trails ideal for cycling enthusiasts.
For more adventurous hikers, consider the Lake Annecy summit circuit, a trek that takes 6–7 days depending on your pace. This trail takes you through forests, alpine meadows, and limestone peaks, offering stunning views of the lake.
Villages and Excursions Around the Lake
While Lake Annecy offers plenty, its charm is enhanced by the nearby villages. Accessible by road, bike paths, or boat, these villages are worth exploring:
- Veyrier-du-Lac: Situated at the foot of Mont Veyrier, this village features beautiful properties like the 16th-century Fondation Meyrieux. It also boasts a public beach and a nautical club. Hiking enthusiasts can follow a marked trail to Mont Veyrier for panoramic views of Annecy and the lake.
- Talloires: Nicknamed the “Little Monaco of the lake,” this resort destination is beloved for its microclimate and summer Pyroconcerts. Nearby, you can visit the Roc de Chère nature reserve and enjoy its stunning view of the Talloires Bay.
- Duingt: On the western shore facing the Roc de Chère, Duingt has a history dating back to the Bronze Age, with remains of pilings and prehistoric artefacts discovered in 1856. The village also features three castles: Château de Dhéré, Châteauvieux, and Châteauneuf!
Gastronomic Delights Near the Lake
Between activities, you might find yourself hungry and looking for a nearby restaurant. Many options cater to all tastes!
For local products, several restaurants and bistros near the water offer seasonal menus. For instance, Chez Ma Cousine is perfect for a relaxing meal. Near Talloires, Le 1903 restaurant offers a gastronomic experience that celebrates the local terroir.
In Sevrier, don’t miss the Bistrot du Port, an establishment right on the water’s edge offering traditional cuisine with a magical backdrop of lake and mountains.
A Full Day in Annecy
Morning...
Start your day with a delicious brunch in Annecy’s city centre. The menu features sweet and savoury dishes designed to satisfy all tastes and dietary preferences.
Open from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM on weekdays and 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM on weekends, Slake Coffee is ready to welcome you
20 minutes from Saint-Jorioz and Veyrier du Lac: 29 Rue Sommeiller, 74000 Annecy
For sightseeing enthusiasts :
Next, for shopping enthusiasts :
Les Nouvelles Galeries have made their grand return to Annecy. After more than two years of renovations, they welcome you with some of the finest brands. Gourmet restaurants, relaxation areas, pop-up shops, including vintage boutiques, to stay at the forefront of modernity.
Midday...
Take a moment for lunch and enjoy a seasonal tasting experience right on the water.
Chef Yoann Conte’s restaurant, Le Roc, is waiting to welcome you to its lively, gourmet setting!
Located in Veyrier-du-Lac, what better way to stay in the Annecy area?
Discover: the menu 🍲
10 minutes from the town centre and Menthon-Saint-Bernard: 13 Vieille Route des Pensières, 74290 Veyrier-du-Lac
Continuing on with a leisurely stroll:
There are many unmissable details around the shores of Lake Annecy.
The tour of the lake remains the most popular walk in our city. Whether by bike (available for hire with LLA) or on foot, explore the paths that encircle its crystal-clear waters and make sure not to miss any must-see spots during your stay.
There are also activities available to help you make the most of your day and your visit. We invite you to enjoy these experiences with the best service providers in the Annecy region, carefully selected by us. Feel free to contact our concierge service or your welcomer, who will be delighted to guide you through our various offers:
- Boat trip on the lake
- Helicopter ride
- Sports outing on a paddleboard
- Paragliding and hang gliding
- Scuba diving
- Discovering the “Venice of the Alps”: the old prison, traditional dishes, church tours, the Pont des Amours, Le Paquier…
End of the day...
Le Col de la Forclaz offers you a breathtaking 360° view of Lake Annecy and its surrounding mountains.
There is car access available with a large car park. You can also take a shuttle and let yourself be guided to the summit.
Once at the top, settle in and enjoy a picnic while admiring the sunset.
30 minutes from Annecy city centre - East Shore: Col de la Forclaz, 74210 Talloires-Montmin