Lake Annecy Tours and Activities

Visit Lake Annecy

Activities

Swim in this very clean lake in the picturesque valley of the Rhône-Alpes region.

Lake Annecy is a scenic body of water in a mountain valley. Among the largest lakes in France, it is known for its cleanliness due to strict environmental regulations. Swim or participate in watersports in this natural oasis.

See the villages and towns surrounding the vast lake. Doussard at the southern end of the lake is very popular for paragliding. Visit Annecy for its quaint buildings and shops bordering the water. Stroll along its canals and stop at the Annecy Castle, where the Counts of Geneva once lived. The town’s highlight is the Island Palace, an intriguing 12th-century structure in Old Town overlooking a Venice-like canal. Shaped like a ship, it is the historic home of a courthouse, mint and prison. See its historical and architectural exhibits.

Rent a small boat to go out on the lake to enjoy serene tranquility. Capture photos of the stunning background of mountains looming over the water. Dive into the fresh water for a swim.

Cycle along the 24-mile (38-kilometre) path circling around the lake. Wakeboarding, waterskiing and sailing are popular on the pretty blue waters. Rent equipment from several shops in Annecy and surrounding towns.

Travel to the Gorges du Fier west of Annecy. Amble through the narrow canyon and cross natural bridges above the cascades of the river.

Lake Annecy was formed naturally 18,000 years ago, by the melting of large alpine glaciers. Small rivers from the nearby mountains continue to feed it. View the lake to see how it inspired Paul Cézanne’s 1896 painting called The Blue Lake.

The northern end of the lake is just 26 miles (42 kilometres) south of Geneva, Switzerland. Fly into Geneva International Airport and drive to the lake in less than an hour. Annecy also has a railway station linking it to the major cities of France. The region has warm, sunny summers and cold winters, with snow capping the backdrop of mountains.

Visit Lake Annecy for marvellous canals, colourful buildings, water sports and refreshing swims in the clean water.

Popular places to visit

Basilique de la Visitation

One of Annecy’s most famous landmarks, this beautiful church makes for a striking sight whether seen from afar or up close.

Jardins de I'Europe

Explore the great outdoors at Jardins de I'Europe, a lovely green space in Annecy. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Amours Bridge

Learn about the local history of Annecy when you spend time at Amours Bridge. Wander the lakeside in this quaint area.

Plage Municipale de Menthon Saint Bernard

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Plage Municipale de Menthon Saint Bernard during your travels in Menthon-Saint-Bernard? Stroll along the area's lakeside or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Sevrier Municipal Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Sevrier Municipal Beach during your trip to Sevrier? Amble around the area's lakeside or seek out its cycling trails.

Sevrier Church

After visiting Sevrier Church, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Sevrier. Wander the lakeside in this quaint area.

Top Lake Annecy Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Le Pélican

20 rue des Marquisats, 101, Annecy, Haute-Savoie

Comfort Aparthotel Les Hauts d'Annecy

16, Rue du Champ de la Taillée, Annecy

Palace de Menthon

665 route des bains, Menthon-Saint-Bernard, Haute-Savoie

L'Impérial Palace

Allée de L'Impérial, Annecy, Haute-Savoie

Campanile Annecy Centre - Gare

37 Rue Vaugelas, Annecy, Haute-Savoie

Moxy Annecy

5 Avenue du Thiou, 19, Annecy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

L'Aurore du Lac

428 Route Des Mongets, Sevrier, Haute-savoie

Rivage Hôtel & Spa Annecy

33 Avenue du Petit Port, Annecy, Haute-Savoie

Auberge de Jeunesse HI Annecy

Route du Semnoz, Annecy

See all 3,990 properties in Lake Annecy

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lake Annecy

Lake Annecy offers a fantastic array of activities for visitors, including biking along scenic trails and relaxing at nearby spas. For those keen on swimming, the lake's crystal-clear waters provide perfect opportunities to take a dip. Don't miss out on the picturesque picnic areas, ideal for enjoying a meal with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It's a perfect spot for a memorable getaway.

Shopping

For souvenirs in Lake Annecy, visit Centre Commercial Courier, just 6.4km away, offering a vibrant shopping experience. La Fromagerie du Cruet, 8.0km away, is perfect for local treats. If you're up for a drive, explore Ferney-Voltaire Market, located 43.5km away, for a bustling atmosphere.

Recreation

Lake Annecy Golf Course offers a picturesque golfing experience surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Alternatively, Giez-Lac d'Annecy Golf provides a tranquil setting for a leisurely round of golf. For family fun, Aravis Aquatic Park features refreshing pools and activities in a vibrant atmosphere.

Adventure

La Clusaz Ski Resort is an exciting ski field located 20.9km from Lake Annecy, offering thrilling slopes and a vibrant sports atmosphere. For aerial adventure, head to Les Passagers du Vent, situated 3.2km away, where you can experience exhilarating air sports. Don’t miss the Footpath of Les Roselieres, a scenic hiking trail only 3.2km away, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nightlife

For a vibrant evening, visit Théâtre Bonlieu, offering a mix of culture and romance, just 4.8km from the lake. If you're up for an adventure, Max Adventure Park, 33.8km away, provides thrilling entertainment options. End your night at Le Phare, a charming theatre located 24.8km from Lake Annecy.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Lake Annecy

Lake Annecy offers a stunning blend of attractions, including captivating castles, beautiful beaches, and majestic mountains. This picturesque destination is perfect for those seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and breathtaking lake views. Must-visit spots include Lac d'Annecy and the charming town of Annecy itself, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying the serene beauty of the lake.

Annecy Castle: Perched on a hilltop, Annecy Castle offers stunning panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. This historic landmark is steeped in romance and culture, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and couples alike. Explore its fascinating exhibitions and imagine the lives of those who once lived within its stone walls.
Palais de l Ile: A true symbol of Annecy, Palais de l Ile is a charming historic building nestled in the Thiou River. With its unique architecture and rich cultural history, this site provides insight into the region's past and is a great place for photography.
Amours Bridge: Known as the Lovers' Bridge, Amours Bridge is a picturesque spot perfect for romantic strolls. Its beautiful setting and cultural significance make it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the heart of Annecy.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Annecy

For a budget-friendly trip to Lake Annecy, consider visiting in April or October to November when prices are lower, avoiding the peak months of February and July to August. Staying on a Tuesday can also lead to savings, as Fridays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter for eco-friendly accommodation and sort by price to find great deals. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities in a package can further reduce costs, making your holiday enjoyable without breaking the bank.

The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Annecy are April and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Lake Annecy is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Lake Annecy is Friday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Make the most of Expedia’s search tool by refining your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Lake Annecy hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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