Holidays in Lake Annecy

As well as the city, lake and mountains, you’ll also get a taste of beach life on the shores of Lake Annecy, with over a dozen to choose from for a lazy day: Plage de La Brune and St Jorioz have sandy shores, while the Menthon-Saint Bernard is more of an outdoor swimming pool complex but in a natural setting and with fresh lake water, floating walkways, lifeguards and showers. Albigny beach, with its grassy sunbathing banks, is one of Annecy’s most popular, just a 20-minute walk from town. Or, make use of the public buses to take you to different spots around the lake (buses operate selected months). For some tranquility, the Talloires bay is sheltered from wind and has beautiful views of the lake. The list goes on…

For a city, Annecy is tiny in size and easy to explore on foot; making it the ideal place for some sightseeing. From Annecy Castle, which dates back to the 13th century, to the Pont des Amours (lovers’ bridge) covered in padlocks, to 12th-century prison Palais de l’Ile, or exhibition space Bonlieu, Annecy is packed with history. When you’ve had enough history, dive into the food and drink scene. The seven Michelin stars in the region just go to show what a focus food is here, with the local bistros and cafés serving up equally as excellent un-starred plates and great value Savoie wine. Join the locals in strolling along the lake’s edge to digest…

For another history hit head to Talloires, a village based around a 9th century abbey with a more recent history of artists and writers (we’re talking the likes of Cezanne and Mark Twain) who came to Lake Annecy in search of beauty and inspiration.

Pedal around the lake on the mostly-flat 26-mile cycle path, or take out the hardest work and do it on e-bike. Serious riders can discover the numerous Tour de France stages that have passed by Annecy over the years. Mountain bikers will also be able to explore the local area with bike paths ranging from fun trails to long downhill runs.

Beyond the lake are rivers and nature reserves to explore. The Angon waterfall is located in the mountains behind Talloires and offers beautiful views over Lake Annecy. West of Annecy, and just under the medieval castle of Montrottier, is the Fier Gorge which is payable to visit and open during selected months.

Head up into the mountains and make tracks for a mountain hut. They're a great way to experience the beauty of the mountains and you're often rewarded with cooler weather at the top, big views and if you fancy treating yourself, an Alpine dish once you arrive. Some mountain huts are only open on selected dates, my only accept cash and not all huts serve food and drink.

Getting around the lake in the summer

In July and August you can make use of the free shuttle bus "Mobil'ete' that departs from Annecy City and can take you East or West of Annecy (this is a locally run service that is subject to change).

It is possible to make use of our self-drive option to Lake Annecy, which means driving your own car from the UK to France instead of using our train, plane or transfer service. This would include the cost of the ferry crossing in the price of your holiday (this may add an additional charge to your holiday depending on the ferry price at the time of booking).
Some of our accommodations in Lake Annecy offer car parking but charges and booking processes vary depending on which property you choose. Car parking spaces are subject to availability at the time of arrival and parking charges are payable locally. Please note that car parking charges in Lake Annecy can be expensive, especially during events.