Annecy destination guide: charming Alpine town
Explore the Venice of the Alps, a picturesque town known for its variety
![Lake Annecy](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/akA9bcVRncZcYZo34E9Z4m-415-80.jpg)
With its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval houses set against a dramatic mountain backdrop, Annecy is a contender for one of the cutest towns in France. Known as the "Venice of the Alps", it was built on the banks of the aquamarine lake that gives it its name, and is formed by a network of waterways that give it its charm.
Even better is the fact Annecy is fairly easy to reach. Direct flights to Geneva Airport from various UK cities will take you most of the way, followed by a 45-minute private transfer or a trip by FlixBus, which has a direct service from the airport several times a day.
Why you should visit
Annecy's alleys invite you to experience its rich heritage. Its position in the Haute-Savoie region of south-east France, now bordered by Italy and Switzerland, made the town historically important, and it has been home to the Counts of Geneva and of Savoy, as well as serving as a refuge for those fleeing the Calvinists in Geneva too.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
![https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/flexiimages/jacafc5zvs1692883516.jpg](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/flexiimages/jacafc5zvs1692883516-320-80.jpg)
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
But the Alps are perhaps the biggest draw. While the Aiguilles de Chamonix mountain chain may be best known for skiing, come the summer there is plenty to enjoy in and around the lake.
Things to do
With views like these you will want to be outdoors, so cycling around the lake is a must, either on a standard bicycle or on an e-bike. Walkers aren't short of a hill to climb either, with various hiking routes available. And the water allows for swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking and windsurfing. The more adventurous may fancy trying their hand at paragliding with Adrenaline Parapente, but a drive to the take-off point at le Col de la Forclaz is also great just to watch others jump into the abyss.
Upon your return to the city spend some time walking through its cobbled streets and alongside the canals and rivers. The market (Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays) is unmissable for fresh produce, delicious breads, and the most divine macarons from Macarons Mandolier.
Climb up to the 13th-century Château d'Annecy for some history and views over the town. The Palais de I'lle, sitting in the heart of an emerald-coloured river, is probably the most photographed monument, with the romantic Belle Epoque Pont des Amours bridge coming a close second. You must get on the lake, so consider a boat trip with Compagnie des Bateaux for a few hours.
What to eat and drink
It wouldn't be a trip to France without a generous helping of cheese, and Bigorno is the spot for French small plates of truffled Brie, Camembert or the local speciality, Reblochon.
The sophisticated atmosphere of Brasserie Brunet is perfect for the evening. This is simple, good cooking using local ingredients, and it has won awards for its sustainable approach.
Morgane Pâtisserie is a new venture in nearby Sevrier, one of the first stops on the cycle path. Expect rows of dainty cakes and pastries, as well as a tempting wine list. Try the Paris Brest, a crispy ring of choux pastry filled with praline mousseline cream.
The two-Michelin-starred restaurant of Auberge du Père Bise from Jean Sulpice is an experience for the senses. The menu is inspired by the dramatic terroir around Lac Annecy, and the dining room has views over the bay of Talloires. He uses local crayfish, poultry, mushrooms and more to create delicately plated dishes that are sure to surprise you with each mouthful.
Where to stay
Your meal at L’Auberge du Père Bise may leave you temporarily unable, or unwilling, to walk very far, so it is lucky that the rooms upstairs are sumptuous and relaxing. The hotel, a member of luxury hotel group Relais & Châteaux, is an oasis inviting you to stroll through the botanical garden, take a steam in the spa, or simply lounge on your terrace. You won’t want to leave. Rooms start at £290.
The imposing Impérial Palace is a local landmark. Sitting just outside the town, its Belle Epoque facade has welcomed visitors such as Charlie Chaplin and Winston Churchill since it opened in 1913. Now its three restaurants, bar, casino, and spectacular views make it a comfortable base to explore the region. Rooms start at £128 per night.
Jaymi McCann was a guest of Lac Annecy tourism, L'Auberge du Père Bise, and Impérial Palace.
Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
-
The Zelensky Story: as 'astonishing as it is inspirational'
The Week Recommends BBC Two's three-part documentary features 'genuinely revealing' interviews with the Ukrainian president
By Ellie O'Mahoney, The Week UK Published
-
Why you need a pension to avoid 'retirement regret'
The Explainer Millions could face a shortfall in their golden years by failing to save for their retirement
By Marc Shoffman, The Week UK Published
-
A national writers nonprofit is the latest front in the war against generative AI
Under the radar NaNoWriMo refuses to condemn the use of AI for its annual challenge. Writers are not having it.
By Theara Coleman, The Week US Published
-
Leave the crowds behind at these 7 sensational hotels
The Week Recommends Traveling in September means more room to explore
By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published
-
Find the soul of Morocco in Fez
The Week Recommends This onetime imperial city is a cultural and spiritual center
By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published
-
Exploring Seattle, one landmark at a time
In Depth In this walkable city, there is something to see around every corner
By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published
-
7 captivating new UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore
The Week Recommends These sites have cultural, historical and scientific significance and the international organization's fresh stamp of approval
By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published
-
Put down the glass, Napa and Sonoma. This is where you should drink wine in California.
In Depth Paso Robles is a gem among the oaks
By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published
-
Tourists welcome: the destinations open to holidaymakers
The Explainer These getaway spots are ideal for conscious travellers who don't want to contribute to the problems of overtourism
By Abby Wilson Published
-
6 sunshine-y hotels to visit before the summer is over
The Week Recommends Hit the beach, play golf and swim outside while you can
By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published
-
Have a seaside escape in Newport, Rhode Island
The Week Recommends For the quintessential New England experience, head to the Classic Coast
By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published