Lake Annecy and the Alps were a significant part of our 10-day French road trip. As the capital of the Haute-Savoie region, Annecy sits at the northern tip of Lake Annecy, just 22 miles from Geneva, Switzerland. Known for its charm, Annecy lived up to its reputation with its stunning landscape: crystal-clear lake waters in the foreground and the French Alps in the background. It’s no surprise the city is dubbed the “Pearl of the French Alps.” Two days in Annecy during summer felt all too short, but even a brief stay is better than none.
Boats on Lake Annecy with a View of the Alps
Coming from the heat of Paris, the cool weather at Lake Annecy was a welcome relief. The lake’s temperature was a comfortable 25°C, and its clarity was refreshing. We appreciated the chance to relax and cool off before moving on to the warmer Lavender Fields and Aix-en-Provence.
The Crystal-Clear Waters of Lake Annecy
Two-Day Annecy Itinerary
Lake Annecy offers plenty to do, so we planned for a hike and a small plane tour over the lake and the Alps. On the first day, we drove to Le Col de la Forclaz near Talloires, just across the lake, for stunning views and the option to try paragliding. The viewpoint provided breathtaking sights of Lake Annecy. Activities around the lake cater to everyone, including families, couples, and friends.
In summer, Annecy has numerous activities, including cycling, hiking, rafting, climbing, and visiting châteaux and museums. For a quick and informative exploration, we recommend a Segway tour.
Foodie Experiences and Local Events
Annecy hosts various exhibitions throughout the year—check the official tourism site for details. In winter, the area also offers skiing, glacier walking, heliskiing, and ice climbing.
Exploring Annecy: Weather, Activities, and Accommodation
We enjoy relaxing by the pool or beach and exploring nature and cities. With the beach right at our hotel, we took full advantage of the surroundings.
View of Lake Annecy
At the viewpoint, we saw several paragliders in action. Our 12-year-old was eager to try it, boasting about his bravery. We decided to let him go, and although he was nervous, he did well.
Paragliding Over Lake Annecy
Neither my husband nor I went paragliding since we had a plane trip over the Alps scheduled for later. However, the trip was canceled due to poor weather. The paragliding instructors were fantastic, taking photos and videos and making us feel secure. If you’re interested, check out Airmax Parapente.
Plans and Unforeseen Events
I was set for a hike after Aleks’s paragliding adventure, but my husband’s leg injury flared up. So, hiking, paragliding, and the plane trip were off the table. Instead, I focused on exploring Annecy. Our first evening was rainy, and the next brought thunderstorms and traffic jams. We ended up eating at McDonald’s before returning to the hotel for a meal.
Accommodation in Annecy
We stayed at Le Clos Marcel in Duingt, a village 10-15 minutes from Annecy. Despite concerns about booking through third-party sites, our stay was excellent. The hotel, located on Lake Annecy’s banks, offers great service and amenities.
Le Clos Marcel Hotel
Le Clos Marcel is a 4-star hotel with only 14 rooms, located right on Lake Annecy. It features a private beach, a 5-star restaurant, free parking, an outdoor hot tub, and beautiful rooms with stunning views. Our room had a balcony and a spa-like bathroom with L’Occitane products.
Nearby Attractions
The Château de Duingt, a picturesque spot on the lake’s edge, is a short drive from the hotel.
Accommodation Options Around Lake Annecy
There are various campsites and mountain huts around Lake Annecy, some with pools and beach access. For proximity to the lake, city, and mountains, staying in Annecy or nearby villages is recommended.
Annecy’s Culinary Scene
Annecy features local specialties such as Andouillette, Fondue Savoyarde, Gratin Dauphinoise, Quenelle, Raclette, Soupe à l’Oignon, and Tartiflette. The local dining scene includes excellent options like Le Comptoir du Lac at our hotel and Restaurant 1er Mets, listed in the Michelin Guide.
Conclusion
Lake Annecy’s stunning location and diverse activities make it a perfect destination for a long weekend. With its beautiful scenery and French cuisine, it’s an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.
As we moved on to the Lavender Fields on Valensole Plateau, I looked forward to new experiences, despite missing out on some planned activities.
