Annecy Lake is one of the purest in Europe. From its turquoise waters so dear to Cézanne, to the Semnoz, the enchanting landscapes await you.
Surrounded by pre-Alpine massifs
Located at an altitude of 447 meters, Lake Annecy is surrounded by two pre-Alpine massifs, open to the north and south by two cluses: that of Annecy to the north and that of Doussard and Faverge to the south. To the west and south-west, the peaks of Bauges dominate the lake (mainly Semnoz, Roc Boeuf and Banc Plat). To the east, the Aravis massif plunges into the waters of the lake, topped by beautiful peaks (Mont Veyrier, Dents de Lanfont and Pointe de la Tournette). These beautiful peaks provide access to magnificent hikes. To the north of the lake, the old town of Annecy and its multiple canals can be explored in all seasons.
A castle dominates the lake
On the left bank, Sevrier, Saint-Jorioz, or even Duingt and its castle live by the water. On the right bank, Veyrier and its belvedere, Menthon-Saint-Bernard and its castle dominate the lake. At the end of the lake, the nature reserve and the belvedere of the roc de Chère then a few kilometers away, the castle of Faverges complete this tour of the lake.
Cycling is a must on Lake Annecy.
A greenway runs along the western shore of the lake then escapes towards Ugine. It is also possible to continue on the eastern shore to go around the lake. Still on the edge of the lake, two 18-hole golf courses enjoy breathtaking views: Lake Annecy golf course in Talloires, Giez golf course. To discover the lake from the sky, baptisms and paragliding initiation courses are offered from the Col de la Forclaz, one of the most beautiful spots in France.
The water can reach 26°C in summer
Pure lake water The water, which can reach 26°C in summer, is a delight for swimmers who can also enjoy all the nautical activities: sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, diving… The lake can also be discovered during a cruise or thanks to the omnibus services which allow you to go from one port to another. These are open to yachting and offer boat rentals. Cultural discoveries Annecy is a real tourist jewel. Le Thiou, the natural outlet of the lake, crosses the whole town. In the city center, the quays and the many bridges rub shoulders with churches and alleys. Overlooking the city, the Annecy castle-museum, former seat of the Duchy, then barracks was transformed into a regional and naturalist museum in 1842.
