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-kilometer) 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 kilometers) 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 marvelous canals, colorful buildings, water sports and refreshing swims in the clean water.
