Must-sees
If the entire Lake Annecy destination had to be summed up in 15 must-sees, these would be them!
It’s up to you to make your own must-sees! Explore a territory rich in panoramas, nature, activities, events, heritage and gastronomy… Ready to discover?
Pure nature
Between rivers, nature reserves, the Angon waterfall or the Fier Gorges…: lovers of wide open spaces can move around and recharge their batteries with nature, in unique and preserved sites.
© Gilles Piel
Breathtaking panoramas
Easily accessible or after a nice hike, take in the exceptional sites. Lake views, mountain views… the beauty is everywhere for those who take the time to admire it.
© Alain Dujardin – photoslahaut.com
The old town of Annecy
Between the lake and mountains, the medieval historic centre of Annecy is an invitation to stroll and discover. With its cobbled streets, its colourful buildings and its emblematic buildings, the Venice of the Alps is a city rich in heritage. As you stroll along the canals, let the riches of the past be told to you.
© Monica Dalmasso
Castles to discover
On the water, overlooking the lake, in the old town, in more remote places to discover: castles are scattered around the territory of Lake Annecy. Each one has its own history, anecdotes and panoramas. Set out to discover them; for the time being, these monuments are your homes…
© Gilles Piel
The Lake Annecy greenway
The greenway and cycle paths allow you to go around the lake and admire the landscape at your own pace. For the more athletic, there are passes that allow you to quickly gain height and enjoy privileged views.
© Gilles Piel
Lake Annecy
Surrounded by mountains, the preserved area of Lake Annecy is a dream setting. Beaches, water sports, walks, cycle paths, magical panoramas, nature reserves, castles: all your desires come to life on the shores of its turquoise and transparent waters.
© Gilles Piel
The beauty of mountains
In the heart of Haute-Savoie, mountains of Lake Annecy offer stunning scenery and exceptional playgrounds. They are a breath of fresh air for all nature lovers.
© Gilles Piel
A cruise on the lake
In the middle of Lake Annecy, enjoy a 360° panorama of the surrounding shores and peaks. Embark and let yourself be captivated by the blue and green colours of the protected waters. On the lake, the landscapes have a completely different face.
© Gilles Piel
A paragliding flight
For a unique view of Lake Annecy and its mountains, paragliding is a unique experience not to be missed. Take to the skies and discover new sensations in an internationally renowned site. And for those who just want to watch the sails take off and fly, the show is guaranteed.
© Alexis Reverchon
Practising an aquatic activity
Aquatic activities on Lake Annecy and in the surrounding area are numerous and varied. Whether gentle or more sporty, the sensation of gliding on or in the water is a real pleasure. Paddle, fishing, swimming, sailing…: the pleasures of the water will no longer hold any secrets.
© Gilles Piel
Dishes to enjoy
From typical cheese dishes to delicate plates of fine lake fish, the culture of taste is everywhere. Small restaurants, confidential addresses or gastronomic cuisine from starred chefs: wake up your taste buds.
© Philippe Royer / Tartiflette
The Fête du Lac
A major event of the summer, this great pyrotechnic show is punctuated by music, lights and water displays. It originates from the events in honour of visiting sovereigns, in particular the arrival of Napoleon III in 1860. Today it is considered to be the most important fireworks display in Europe, in a magical setting between lake and mountains.
© Peignée Verticale / T. Nalet
The Retour des Alpages
When folklore, traditions and animals come to the old quarters, it means that autumn is starting to arrive. This great popular festival is a convivial and authentic moment that smells of crafts, old-fashioned trades and local products.
© Gilles Piel / Le Retour des Alpages
The Venetian Carnival
At the end of winter, the old town and the lakefront are decked out in the colours of hundreds of Venetian masks and costumes. This is another way of discovering the city of Annecy, which then lives up to its nickname of “Venice of the Alps”.
© Olivier Puthon
The Annecy International Animation Film Festival
Since 1960, Annecy has been the world capital of animated films. In the last days of spring, thousands of festival-goers gather in a warm and friendly atmosphere to celebrate this art. It is a unique opportunity to attend previews, open-air screenings and to meet film enthusiasts.
© Gilles Piel – CITIA