Lake Annecy holidays
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On the shore of an alpine lake, holidays to Lake Annecy are just the thing if you fancy mixing outdoor activities with some authentic French culture.
Canal-lined streets and tasty treats
Nicknamed ‘Venice of the Alps’, you’ll find a photo op around every corner in Annecy. Leafy parks overlook the lake, and from here you can count the bridges that criss-cross the canals as you wander towards the medieval centre. Buildings painted in shades of yellow and orange line the streets – and this is France, so you’re never far from tasty bite. Freshly baked croissant? Yes please.
Beaches, boats and bikes
Whether you’re a lay-back-and-relaxer or like to keep active, Lake Annecy has got you covered. Grassy lidos and sandy beaches dot the shoreline, including three just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of town. There are plenty of watersports on the cards too, from pedalos and stand-up paddleboarding to sailing and scuba diving. Or if you prefer sticking to dry land, you can hire an e-bike and take in those lake views as you wheel along the shoreside cycle path.
Towers and turrets
There’s heaps of history on show in Annecy. Walk over the Perrière bridge in the centre to snap a pic of the little Palais de l’Île, or island castle, which stands guard in the middle of the canal. Then stroll through the Old Town to the 35m-high walls of Annecy Castle. The battlements are a go-to for views across the rooftops, lake and the peaks beyond, and inside you can wander through the great hall and upstairs apartments to see frescoes, paintings and sculptures from the Middle Ages.
More to explore
Whether it’s by bus or boat, it’s easy to explore the other spots on the lake. First up is Duingt, a little place midway down the western shore. With its traditional stone buildings and turreted waterside chateau, it’s a picture-perfect village with a peaceful vibe. Directly opposite is the hamlet of Talloires – another sleepy spot that’s bound to get your camera finger clicking. And just next door is chic Menthon-Saint-Bernard, with its stylish hotels and impressive lakefront villa.
Out and about
- Lakeside promenade
- Lake bathing
- Boat trips
- Rowing boats
- Local ferries
- Bike hire
- Lakeside cycle path
- Sailing
- Guided mountain walks
- Wildlife park
- Waterfalls
- UNESCO Site
- Guided walking tours
- Castle
- Museum
- Art gallery
- Minigolf
- Segway tours
- E-bikes
- Cycle routes
Popular hotels in Lake Annecy
Top things to see and do in Lake Annecy
Beaches
Shopping
Nightlife
Food & drink
Getting about
Walking
Average Weather in Lake Annecy
Top Hotels in Lake Annecy
Popular holidays
Facts about Lake Annecy
FAQs
Where can I find the latest travel advice?
All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.
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