25 Best Things to Do and See in Annecy, France
Are you looking for some activities to add to your itinerary during your visit to Annecy, France? European travel enthusiast Emma Braby shares some of her favorite things to do during your next visit, from her personal experiences spending time in Annecy.
Last updated: April 11, 2024
18 min read
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Annecy is one of my favorite towns in Europe, and that’s a tough claim because I’ve been lucky enough to visit many. Annecy is known as La Venise des Alpes, which translates to Venice of the Alps, so you can already sense it’s a stunning place to visit. The town of Annecy is the pearl of the Haute-Savoie department in the southeastern Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes region in France. It is also approximately 22 miles from the famous Lake Geneva in Switzerland.
Annecy sits on the northwestern shore of one of Europe’s cleanest and bluest lakes. It has a beautiful old town entwined with canals and other curiosities for visitors to explore. What I love about this city is the calm connection between rustic village charm surrounded by dramatic and outstanding natural beauty. And no matter what time of year you visit, it always has something to offer. I have been in the summer and the winter, both having advantages.
There are plenty of things to do in Annecy, no matter your travel circumstances, hobbies, abilities, and budget. To help you make the best of your visit, I’ve written a guide on the best things to do in Annecy. Complete with personal experience and tips from the locals, this guide is a must-read for anyone planning to make the most of their visit. So, let’s jump straight into it.
See The Lake From Annecy
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Boating Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Leisure Seekers, Cyclists, Family Visitors
Let me start with the star of the Annecy show, Lake Annecy, also called Lac d’Annecy. This is the first thing you’ll see when you arrive in Annecy, and you really can’t miss it. Thanks to the purified water that trickles down from the nearby Alps, it is one of Europe’s most beautiful translucent lakes. The lake is the third largest lake in France, measuring over nine miles long and two miles wide, and it is the start of River Thiou. There are eight main towns around the lake, with Annecy being the largest and most impressive.
Take a stroll around the Annecy part of the lake, pick one of the many benches, and appreciate its lagoon-like beauty. Sit down with a picnic, read a book, or play games with your family. There are so many things to do on the lakeside. There are boule greens, children’s playgrounds, and plenty of kiosks to enjoy a refreshing drink or ice cream. If you’re feeling slightly more adventurous, why not hire a segway? Segway trips typically range from 30 minutes to 2 hours, and it’s a fun way to see one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Annecy on the first Saturday of August, you’re in for a wonderful treat. Fete du Lac is held annually, one of the largest fireworks shows in Europe. During the day, you are treated to open-air musicals and comedy shows, and by night watch the explosive colors fill the sky and reflect on the lake. Whether you’re seeking a fun day out with the children or a romantic night with your partner, this is an event not to miss out on. This was one of my favorite parts of my first visit to Annecy, and it was a special day full of fun and laughter.
Cruise On Lake Annecy
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Lake Lovers, Scenic Beauty Enthusiasts, Outdoor Relaxation Seekers, Romantic Couples
Now that you’ve seen the lake from the shore of Annecy, why not explore the entire lake by boat? There are many boat operators to choose from. However, the one I can recommend is Compagnie des Bateaux. They run a service all year round, their boats are accessible for those with reduced mobility, and their boats run on gas to liquid, reducing their CO2 emissions.
Most cruises around the lake last at least 90 minutes. They take you all around the lake with stopovers in different ports, allowing you to see other towns you might not see otherwise. For a more extravagant experience that is highly rated, their Libellule boat offers a tasting experience, and it is the only restaurant boat on Lake Annecy. You can cruise and dine in style, with the sound of the water complimenting the music entertainment on board.
Take A Bikeride on the Greenway
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Cycling Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Adventurers, Families Seeking a Scenic Ride
Many of the attractions of Annecy focus around the lake and for good reason. Biking is another popular way to see the lake in all its glory. The city has built a greenway around the lake, a wide and accessible path stretching 20 miles. It starts from the Paquier lawns, just before Pont des Amours, and takes you around the lake, finally arriving in Ugine. It is thought to be one of the oldest greenways in France. Rest areas, amenities, and water are available along the route, allowing you to take your time.
There are many places in Annecy to hire a bike, and you can do so for a few hours or a few days, depending on your needs. You can cycle around the whole lake, but the greenway still needs to be completed on the east side. Meaning you have to venture onto the road through towns. This makes it unsuitable or difficult for those with little cycling experience or families with young children. But the current greenway provides plenty of sights to keep you happy.
Row Around Ile des Cygnes
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Kayaking Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Adventurers, Photographers, Fitness Enthusiasts
Around the lake, there are plenty of kiosks offering boat hire. Choose from a traditional wooden rowing boat or a fun pedalo, and there’s plenty more to choose from. From there, head to the Ile des Cygnes, which translates to the island of swans. It is a small wooded island where the swans like to congregate and nest.
View the graceful swans from afar and do not attempt to get onto the island. A word of warning, be sure to keep to the agreed hire time because I saw a few disagreements between tourists facing hefty late fines from the operators. However, this is an excellent activity for travelers wanting to see these beautiful creatures, as well as another aspect of the lake and potentially a few fish.
Visit Jardins de l’Europe
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Nature Enthusiasts, Outdoor Leisure Seekers, Flower Admirers, Photography Aficionados
The Jardins de l’Europe is a large park in front of the city hall, next to the lake and Pont des Amours. It’s a must for anyone who likes green, open spaces or somewhere refreshing to relax. And with the ice-blue water and spectacular mountains in the distance, you will struggle to find a municipal park as beautiful as this in Europe. It was established in the 19th century, and the town planted over 500 trees, many of which still stand today.
The park is used by locals taking a lunch break or walking their dogs. There are also exercise and play stations that are filled with children playing. Dotted around, you’ll find many kiosks selling ice cream. This is an ideal spot for rest after sightseeing or a chance to people-watch and soak up the Annecy way of life. It also hosts many events throughout the year, such as the Carnaval Venitien d’Annecy in March. Here you’ll also find the state of Claude-Louis Berthollet, a pioneering chemist, and other artworks.
Head to La Vieille Ville
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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History Buffs, Architecture Enthusiasts, Canal-Side Strollers, Café-Goers
Also known as the old town, La Vielle Ville has a fairy tale setting. Wander through the winding cobbled streets lined with canals, and you’ll soon understand why it is called Venice of the Alps. The roads in the old town are bursting with restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, art galleries, and more, which makes a great afternoon wandering around without a plan.
There are 21 historical monuments to be discovered, many of which are on this list. The old town is full of peach and other pastel-colored buildings, adding to its medieval charm. Seek out “l’Ecluse Fleurie,” a small bridge decorated with vibrant flowers, and take a few snaps of this colorfully famous bridge. Many guided walks are also available to book, providing this charming town’s hidden secrets.
Sample Local Cuisine
Peak Season
Year-Round
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Food Enthusiasts, Cheese Connoisseurs, Culinary Explorers, Gastronomy Lovers
Sample local cheeses like Gruyere and cold cuts like Diots de Savoire. A great place to buy cheese from, in my experience, is Pierre Gay on Rue Carnot. The old town market is a great way to sample local produce if you are in town on a Tuesday, Friday, or Sunday between 7 am and 1 pm. It is held on Rue Sainte-Claire and along the canal, providing an extra buzz to an already busy town.
If you are a liquor fan, why not buy a bottle of local Genepi, a herbal aperitif? Made using local alpine wormwood, it is often compared to Absinthe but much smoother. I’m not a huge aniseed or liquor fan, but strangely for me, this drink is enjoyable. It also makes a great gift too! They usually offer this as a palate cleanser if you dine at a restaurant. My favorite local dish was Tartiflette, made with Raclette cheese, and most restaurants have this dish on their menu.
Eat Ice Cream at Le Glacier des Alpes
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Ice Cream Enthusiasts, Dessert Lovers, Families With a Sweet Tooth, Foodies
Walk along Rue Sainte-Claire, and the road transforms into Rue Perriere. Along here, you’ll find the famous Le Glacier des Alpes. It is a master gelateria that sells artisanal ice cream and waffles, with a small seating area. It is extremely popular and nearly always with a long queue, but trust me when I say the ice cream is worth the wait. Thankfully the line passes quickly.
Every year they produce new flavors and concoctions in their local laboratory. Why not try the local Genepi flavor or a more traditional and delicious personally-sampled Stratecelli option? If you’re impatient when it comes to food, like me, check out their most recent ice cream catalog. Plus, a life-size ice cream statue stands outside, which makes for a great photo opportunity. I visited several times during both visits to Annecy, and I was never met with disappointment.
Visit Palais de I’lle
Peak Season
Year-Round
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History Buffs, Architecture Enthusiasts, Cultural Explorers, Photography Aficionados
In the old town, you’ll discover one of the most photographed buildings in Europe, Palais de l’Ile. Walk along the Perriere Bridge, known as Pont Perriere, sat just in front of the palace. No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll have to squeeze yourself toward the bridge railings for a photo opportunity. During the summer, the bridge is lined with pretty flower baskets, and during the winter, it is adorned with twinkling Christmas lights.
Palais de l’Ile is a fortified palace floating in the middle of the Thiou, separating it into two canals. The design gives the impression of an advancing ship steaming toward the lake. This building was built on a rocky island and has served as a prison, courthouse, palatial residence, coin-minting workshop, barracks, and a care home. Now it is accessible to the public and is home to the Architecture and Heritage Museum.
You can purchase a combined ticket for this and the Chateau d’Annecy for a discounted price. As one of Europe’s most iconic buildings, it is definitely worth paying the entrance fee. Head down to the dungeons to learn about the conditions of the imprisoned. There are four cells in total, and during the French Revolution, more than 100 prisoners were incarcerated at one time.
Pop Into Eglise Saint-Francois
Peak Season
Year-Round
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History Enthusiasts, Architecture Admirers, Religious Pilgrims, Cultural Explorers, Family Visitors
Also referred to as the Italian Church by the locals, this is a somewhat plain church compared to many others in France. So be sure to avoid comparing it to them; otherwise, you might be disappointed. But what it offers is a bright and freshly lit interior and high ceilings, making it a welcome place for worship or a little time out for the hustle and bustle of the town. Occasionally the church holds free concerts, so check out the itinerary at the door.
Eglise Saint-Francois sits very close to Palais de l’Ile, so it’s worth popping your head in for a look as you’re already there. Take time to appreciate the paintings, statues, green marble, and shimmering altar. Just be warned, some artifacts are alarmed, so don’t let your children loose without supervision. During my visit, an unsuspecting family learned this the hard way, and the alarm sounded loud enough for people in Paris to hear!
Photo Stop At Pont des Amours
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Romantic Couples, Photography Aficionados, Scenic View Seekers, Waterfront Strollers
This is another famous pedestrianized bridge that connects the city. From one side of the bridge, it overlooks Lake Annecy with the mountains in the background. And from the other, it views the blue canal symmetrically lined with trees and lighting, with boats moored against the jetties. I found this bridge most pretty at night with the twinkling lights.
The metal bridge is loaded with lover’s locks, making it a romantic stop for couples to add their mark and take a selfie next to the Pont des Amours sign. It is believed that lovers that share a kiss on this scenic bridge will stay together for life. If you’re walking through Jardins de l’Europe, it sits next to it, so it’s worth heading to, even if just for a kiss.
Paraglide Over Lake Annecy
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Adventure Seekers, Thrill Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Adventurers, Adrenaline Junkies
This one is for thrill-seekers and sporting enthusiasts, and I did not do this on either of my visits to Annecy. But it’s safe to say that this is one of my biggest travel regrets. So please put it on your list of things to do in Annecy, and don’t make the same mistake I did. According to many fellow travelers, a birds-eye view of the lake is the most breathtaking way to see it, and I can believe it.
Take a drive to Col de la Forclaz, the opposite end of the lake, to Annecy. Sat around 3,800 feet above sea level, this is Europe’s most popular free-flight take-off platform. Whether it’s your first flight or you’re an aerial champion, there are many providers that you can take to the skies with. Lake Annecy is an internationally recognized air sports site and has hosted national and international championships. So, what better way to do it over Lake Annecy if you want to try paragliding?
Head up to Chateau d’Annecy
Peak Season
Year-Round
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History Enthusiasts, Architecture Admirers, Cultural Explorers, Photography Aficionados
The Chateau d’Annecy is a well-preserved and restored castle built in the 12th century. It was once the residence of the Counts of Geneva in the 13th to 14th centuries. And then, it was used as military barracks before being purchased by the city to be converted into a museum. The castle takes around 15 minutes to reach from the old town up an easily-climbed hill. From Rue Sainte-Claire, head up Pass. Nemours.
It took me around two hours to get around and was reasonably priced. The rooms contain artworks, tapestries, furniture, and other artifacts. Despite being an architecture fan, the best part of the castle was the views over the town and the lake. Imagining what it would be like to wake up to that view! If you’re considering visiting the castle, check the opening times, as many visitors get caught out. They open at 9 am, shut down for a two-hour lunch, and close at 5 pm, meaning small visitation windows.
Visit Basilique de la Visitation
Peak Season
Year-Round
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Religious History Enthusiasts, Architecture Admirers, Spiritual Seekers, Cultural Explorers
If you are like me and love to wander through churches adorned with pretty stained glass windows and take time out in tranquil resting spots, Basilique de la Visitation is a great place to visit. Marble columns support the tall building, complete with statues and an impressive altar. Here you’ll find the tomb and relics of St. Frances de Sales, a famous French Bishop.
The hill is steeper than the one to the Chateau d’Annecy, but it’s worth the effort and provides a fantastic viewpoint of the lake. It takes around 20 minutes at a steady pace from the old town, allowing you to view some private residences along the way. If you’re not up for the climb, it has a free car park or frequent buses that pass. Again, be sure to aline your schedule with their opening times, as they open late and shut early with an extended lunch break.
Relax at Annecy’s Beaches
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Beach Lovers, Water Sports Enthusiasts, Sunbathers, Families Seeking Lakeside Relaxation
What better way to experience the water than getting into it? You can do this on the many beaches dotted around the lake. Some beaches are better than others, and some have great amenities, while others do not. Some beaches are free to the public, some charge a fee, and some are for private customers, so be sure to check out the rules of where you go.
Marquisats Beach and Albigny Beach are grass beaches that are the most popular with locals. They are also great for those who cannot stand sandy beaches. They are free to visit, and best of all, visitors with reduced mobility can take advantage of free-floating loungers providing easier access to the water. There are also many sailing, kayaking, and canoeing clubs where you can hire equipment if you want to get out onto the water but (hopefully) not in it!
Spend a Day at Saint-Jorioz Beach
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Beach Lovers, Sunbathers, Water Sports Enthusiasts, Families Seeking Lakeside Relaxation
For a sandy beach, head to Saint-Jorioz beach. This beach is not in Annecy but in the next municipality, Saint-Joroiz. It has held a “Blue Flag” title since 2010, and it is worth spending several hours here in the summer. This beach gets busy with locals, visitors, and families during the holidays. The gently sloping sand beach leads you to the bright blue water, where you can cool off from the summer heat.
Best of all, there is a diving board, several pontoons, and a children’s paddling pool to enjoy. There are also volleyball and petanque areas, trees for shade, toilets, showers, and snack bars on site. There is a small admission charge, but it is worth the fee. During the summer, the water is supervised by lifeguards, offering families peace of mind. You can hop on a bus from Annecy or reach this beach via the greenway.
Wander Through Parc Charles Bosson
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Nature Lovers, Outdoor Leisure Seekers, Picnickers, Families Looking for a Peaceful Green Space
Parc Charles Bosson is a smaller park than Jardins de l’Europe but has a few different attractions. Not only is it further from town and therefore less crowded, but it also has a small animal park which is great for families traveling with children. Plus, there’s a well-maintained children’s play area. It also has a park café and other amenities, making it a hang-out place for the locals.
You’ll also discover a unique gazebo in the park, described as an optical device. The metal has openings that direct your gaze, allowing you to see parts of the landscape you might have missed. As well as a newly established kitchen garden and other art projects, each making a great photo opportunity. This is an excellent place for art lovers and those who enjoy open-air museums. Parc Charles Bosson is a short walk from Plage d’Albigny.
Visit Eglise Notre Dame de Liesse
Peak Season
Religious Holidays
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Religious History Enthusiasts, Architecture Admirers, Cultural Explorers, Spiritual Seekers
This catholic church sits in downtown Annecy, on Passage Notre Dame, near the main shopping street. I stayed in an apartment just across the square from this church, and the frequent ringing of the church bells and the singing is a welcome memory. The bell tower dates back to the 14th century and is the only remaining part of the original church. The original church was demolished during the French Revolution and rebuilt during the 19th century.
If you like to listen to bells ringing and a choir singing, this is a top place to visit. Or, if you are seeking a reprieve from shopping or sightseeing, you will always be welcome here. There are plenty of beautiful statues and an impressive altar to admire. As well as painted ceilings and stained glass windows, adding color to a quiet space.
Travel to Gorges du Fier
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Nature Enthusiasts, Adventure Seekers, Photography Aficionados, Family Visitors
A short ride heading inland west from Annecy, approximately six miles, you’ll stumble across Gorges du Fier. This natural attraction is worth the journey out of Annecy to view even more of the natural beauty this region of France offers. A footpath suspends itself high up on a narrow gorge above the river. The pathway is flat, easy to walk, and takes up to one hour to complete. On my visit, I saw a man with crutches managing it well, although access is limited to certain walkways.
I loved this visit, not only for the geology but also for how the abundant and almost eery silence was filled with soothing bird songs. But not all visitors appeared to enjoy it, holding onto the railing furthest away from the edge. This is one to miss if you fear heights or suffer from vertigo. For a small fee, you can enjoy this fantastic natural attraction. There is also a café on site with amenities and free parking.
Head to Chateau de Montrottier
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Autumn (May to September), Summer (June to August)
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History Enthusiasts, Cultural Explorers, Art and Architecture Aficionados, Family Visitor
As you are in the area of Gorges du Fier, take an approximately 10-minute walk across the river, and you’ll see signs for Chateau de Montrottier. This 13th-century medieval castle is now home to many interesting artifacts from all eras and cultures, which you can enjoy for a small fee. The castle gardens offer breathtaking views of Annecy and the Alps. Sadly there is no lift which means it is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.
This fairytale-like castle makes a great day out for children too. They can burn off steam in the gardens, play outdoor lifesize chess with their parents, and even participate in a treasure hunt organized by the castle staff. They hold other exhibitions, such as bird of prey demonstrations and light shows during the summer. Actors put on medieval shows throughout the day with the chance to interact, making it fun for everyone. Chateau de Montrottier is only open from April to November.
Visit Semnoz Peak
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Autumn (May to September), Summer (June to August)
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Outdoor Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Adventure Seekers, Cyclists, Photography Aficionados
This is the most accessible hike with a view over Lake Annecy and the route most people opt for. Semnoz Peak is situated in the Viuz-la-Chiesaz region. It is a short drive from Annecy with ample parking or a one-hour bus drive from Annecy station, and then you have reached the summit. From here, you are welcomed by phenomenal views across Annecy and the lake, over alpine pastures, and across Mont Blanc. It’s a fantastic spot for a picnic with a view.
On top of the views, there are many animals and flowers to see, and it is a relatively easy walk for families with children. Along the route and on the summit are a few quaint chalet restaurants offering light lunches and clean restrooms. If you go here in the winter, be prepared for lots of snow, and dress accordingly.
Hike up La Tournette Peak
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Autumn (June to September), Summer (July and August)
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Hiking Enthusiasts, Adventure Seekers, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts
If you seek a higher peak, La Tournette is the highest mountain surrounding Lake Annecy. But this option is only suitable for experienced climbers and is to be taken with preparation and the correct gear. You can drive most of the way up the mountain, parking at Chalet de l’Aulp. From there, you’ll find a well-marked path that takes approximately three hours. The last hour of that hike requires scrambling, which is why it is best saved for seasoned hikers. There are chains and ladders where it becomes problematic.
But wow, is it worth it when you reach the summit! Head down to the Chalet de l’Aulp and treat yourself to a much-needed bite to eat and a cool beverage to recharge your batteries. Reviewers say that the food is delicious and reasonably priced. It’s a great spot to meet like-minded tourists too.
Visit Chateau de Menthon-Saint-Bernard
Peak Season
Spring (April to June), Summer (July to August), Early Autumn (September to October)
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History Buffs, Culture and Heritage Enthusiasts, Garden Admirers, Architecture Aficionados
Legend has it that Chateau de Menthon-Saint-Bernard inspired Walt Disney in his drawing of the castle in the classic “Sleeping Beauty.” So, whether you are a Disney fanatic or inspired by romantic castles, this box needs ticking. The present castle was constructed between the 13th and 19th centuries. Bernard of Menthon (St Bernard, the patron saint of skiers and the Swiss dog breed named after him) was born here in the 11th century. The same family still owns it and maintains it well.
The castle is open from May to September and is open to the public for a small fee. There are 105 rooms, and the spectacular library is home to around 12,000 works. You’ll be treated to a guided tour that lasts around one hour. During the summer, the castle opens during the night too, and actors fill the castle every weekend and public holiday offering medieval shows. Take a trip here via bus directly from Annecy.
Hike up to Cascade d’Angon
Peak Season
Spring (April to June), Summer (July to August)
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Nature Enthusiasts, Hikers and Trekkers, Adventure Seekers, Photography Aficionados
If you have time to spare and want an impressive panoramic view over Lake Annecy and a stunning 35-meter-high waterfall, this is the place to go. The waterfall is located between Agnon and Talloires and close to Chateau de Mentho-Saint-Bernard. Located on Route des Vignes, the starting point is called Chemin Rural d’Angon a la Pirraz. The climb to the waterfall takes around an hour, and the descent is slightly shorter. It would be best to have appropriate footwear and tackle this journey during daytime hours.
If you want to be adventurous, why not try canyoning? Canyoning is where you explore a canyon through activities, including rafting, waterfall jumping, and rappelling. I have not done this myself, but other travelers said they thoroughly enjoyed it. It was something different (and incredibly thrilling!) to do. Terra Canyon offers a guided canyoning experience for an unforgettable time.
Take a Day Trip to Chamonix and Mer De Glace
Peak Season
Throughout the Year
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Nature Enthusiasts, Adventure Seekers, Winter Sports Enthusiasts, Photography Aficionados
If you stay in Annecy for a few days or more, consider a bus trip to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. It is a spectacular resort at the base of Mont Blanc. There are several bus operators, most of which run from Annecy station, taking you directly to Chamonix Sud. There are approximately 39 weekly buses, which take just over 90 minutes on average. The journey is enjoyable, allowing you to drive through other towns and witness the coach driver’s impressive nail-biting maneuvering skills around blind mountainous bends.
While you’re there, take the opportunity to travel up the slopes via cable car. A popular destination is Aiguille du Midi, and this cable car holds the highest vertical ascent in the world. So, it’s not for the faint-hearted! You could also hop aboard a world-famous red train that takes you from Chamonix to Montenvers to an altitude of 1913m. You can marvel at the famous Mer de Glace and enter the ice cave inside the glacier. This was another highlight of my trip. However, not so much for the rest of my family, who didn’t brave the ice cave.
All train and cable rides should be booked in advance to avoid long queues and be sure to take warm clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen during the summer. You could make this trip in one day and explore the beautiful alpine town as I did. Be sure to book your ticket home. Otherwise, you risk waiting overnight for the next bus or staying in a potentially expensive hotel. Alternatively, you could book an overnight stay in one of the hotels to get a real feel for the French alpine way of life.
