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Annecy and its lake: the most beautiful places to see between town and mountains

Annecy attracts equally with its lake and its preserved Alpine village ambiance. Between nature, gastronomy, and heritage, the town stretches between the mountains and the clear water of the lake, lined with canals and colorful facades. Strolling along the Thiou, climbing up to the castle, or taking boat trips to Talloires and Veyrier are popular activities. The surroundings are filled with easily accessible peaks, scenic trails, and starred restaurants. Each season offers a reason to return, whether for markets, beaches, or the first snow on the Aravis.

Château d'Annecy
Château d'Annecy

Annecy, France

Medieval fortress from the 12th century perched above the old town. Its exhibition halls showcase archaeological collections, paintings, and artifacts related to alpine history. From the ramparts, the view extends over the rooftops and the lake.

Lake Annecy
Lake Annecy

France

Regarded as one of the clearest in Europe, the lake invites swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing. A 42 km cycling trail allows you to circle it while passing beaches and small harbors.

Pont des Amours
Pont des Amours

Annecy, France

This white-painted iron bridge connects the Gardens of Europe to Charles Bosson Park. It is one of the most romantic spots in Annecy, popular for its direct view of the lake and the mountains.

Château de Montrottier
Château de Montrottier

Annecy, France

13th-century building dominated by an octagonal tower. It houses unusual collections of weapons, porcelain, and objects from East Asia. In summer, storytelling tours bring its medieval past back to life.

Le Parmelan
Le Parmelan

Annecy, France

Limestone mountain heightening to 1,832 meters, accessible via several hiking trails. Its cliffs offer stunning views of the lake and the Alps, with some cable sections for more adventurous hikers.

Palais de l'Isle
Palais de l'Isle

Annecy, France

Ancient 12th-century prison built on an island in the Thiou. Its triangular shape symbolizes the old town. Inside, a museum recounts the history of Annecy through the centuries.

Conservatoire d'Art et d'Histoire
Conservatoire d'Art et d'Histoire

Annecy, France

Housed in the former episcopal palace, it displays paintings, sculptures, and archives documenting the cultural and religious life of Haute-Savoie since the Middle Ages.

Plateau des Glières
Plateau des Glières

Annecy, France

Natural area at 1,440 meters altitude, known for its role in the Resistance. Hiking takes place among forests and alpine meadows up to the national monument honoring the Maquis fighters of 1944.

Canal du Thiou
Canal du Thiou

Annecy, France

The Thiou runs through the historic center of Annecy and joins the Fier. Its banks, lined with pastel-colored houses, flower-filled bridges, and terraces, are part of the city's charm.

Château de Clermont
Château de Clermont

Annecy, France

16th-century Renaissance palace inspired by Italian architecture, with arched galleries and mullioned windows. It now hosts summer exhibitions and performances.

Les Ponts de la Caille
Les Ponts de la Caille

Annecy, France

Two daring bridges crossing the Usses gorges at over 140 meters. The old suspension bridge from 1839, reserved for pedestrians, offers a spectacular view of the valley.

Le Clos des Sens
Le Clos des Sens

Annecy, France

Three-Michelin-star restaurant in Annecy-le-Vieux. Chef Laurent Petit elevates lake and garden ingredients in a plant-based and poetic cuisine.

Le Semnoz
Le Semnoz

Annecy, France

Summit accessible by car or bike, reaching 1,699 meters. In winter, a family ski resort; in summer, a place for hiking and picnicking with views of Mont Blanc.

Les Trésoms
Les Trésoms

Annecy, France

1930s hotel located on the heights, with a swimming pool, spa, and restaurant. The terraces overlook the lake, offering ideal spots to watch the sunset.

Le Grand Bornand
Le Grand Bornand

Annecy, France

The Aravis resort is known for its Savoyard charm. Year-round, it offers skiing, hiking, traditional markets, and local cuisine.

Cathédrale Saint-Pierre
Cathédrale Saint-Pierre

Annecy, France

16th-century church in Renaissance style, featuring ornately decorated chapels and ancient wall murals.

Imperial Palace
Imperial Palace

Annecy, France

Belle Époque palace by the lakeside, built in 1913. It houses a luxury hotel, a spa, a casino, and several restaurants with water views.

Jardins de l'Europe
Jardins de l'Europe

Annecy, France

19th-century lakeside park. Shaded paths, centuries-old trees, and lawns invite relaxation. Boats dock there for lake cruises.

Auberge du Père Bise
Auberge du Père Bise

Talloires, France

Iconic location in Talloires. Chef Jean Sulpice offers a reinvented mountain cuisine facing the lake. Notable terrace and cellar.

Mont Veyrier
Mont Veyrier

Annecy, France

Summit at 1,291 meters facing the Tournette. Its easy paths lead to viewpoints offering exceptional views of the town and the lake.

Eglise Notre-Dame-de-Liesse
Eglise Notre-Dame-de-Liesse

Annecy, France

Built in the 16th century on the former sanctuary of the Counts of Geneva. The clock tower and stained glass windows illuminate this Gothic church in the city center.

Musée du Film d'Animation
Musée du Film d'Animation

Annecy, France

Tribute to the tradition of the international festival. It features models, celluloids, film clips, and manufacturing secrets.

Basilique de la Visitation
Basilique de la Visitation

Annecy, France

On the Crêt du Maure hill, it houses the relics of Saint Francis de Sales and Jeanne de Chantal. Panoramic view of the entire city.

La Tournette
La Tournette

Annecy, France

Iconic summit of the Northern Alps at 2,351 meters. The climb offers a breathtaking view of the lake and the surrounding mountain ranges.

La Ciboulette
La Ciboulette

Annecy, France

One-star restaurant in a discreet house in Old Annecy. Elegant French cuisine, market produce, and regional wines.

Eglise Saint-François-de-Sales
Eglise Saint-François-de-Sales

Annecy, France

Old 15th-century Dominican monastery. Simple facade, bright interior, and peaceful atmosphere by the Thiou.

Parc animalier de la Grande Jeanne
Parc animalier de la Grande Jeanne

Annecy, France

Small woodland park near Semnoz. Deer, fallow deer, and mouflons roam freely in a landscaped area, accessible free of charge.

Restaurant Yoann Conte
Restaurant Yoann Conte

Veyrier-du-Lac, France

Two-star table in Veyrier-du-Lac. The chef offers a signature cuisine inspired by the Savoyard countryside, served by the water.

Abbaye de Talloires
Abbaye de Talloires

Talloires, France

Founded in the 11th century and converted into a hotel-restaurant, it retains its medieval vaults and gardens overlooking the lake.

La Clusaz
La Clusaz

Annecy, France

Neighboring resort in the Aravis, known for its diverse slopes, family-friendly atmosphere, and lively village life throughout the year.

Palace de Menthon
Palace de Menthon

Annecy, France

Early 20th-century manor house converted into a five-star hotel. Bright rooms, spa, restaurant, and views of Menthon-Saint-Bernard Bay.

La Vieille Ville
La Vieille Ville

Annecy, France

Historic center of Annecy with its cobbled streets, flower-lined canals, and pastel-colored facades. It features cheeseries, markets, and local artisans.

Le Pâquier
Le Pâquier

Annecy, France

Large grassy promenade by the lake, hosting festivals and fireworks. Residents come here to run, picnic, or dream by the water.

Manigod
Manigod

Annecy, France

The Aravis resort with a peaceful atmosphere. Ski slopes, hiking trails, chalets, and traditional mountain cuisine.

Office de Tourisme du Lac d'Annecy
Office de Tourisme du Lac d'Annecy

Annecy, France

Information center for all activities in the Annecy area. Maps, information, reservations, and personalized advice.

Black Bass Hôtel
Black Bass Hôtel

Annecy, France

Five-star establishment situated by the lake. Rooms with sleek designs, outdoor pool, fine dining restaurant, and water terrace.

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