A veritable jewel nestling at the gateway to the French Alps. This charming medieval town is packed with exciting sporting and tourist activities to delight visitors of all nationalities and ages.

 

First of all, stroll along the cobbled streets of the old town and let yourself be seduced by its 16th-century architecture. Admire the colourful buildings with their flower-bedecked facades, the canals crossed by romantic little bridges, and the lively squares where Savoyard cafés and restaurants invite you to savour tradition and relax. 

 

One of Annecy's must-do activities is a visit to the famous Château d'Annecy, perched on a hill overlooking the town. This historic castle offers breathtaking views of Lake Annecy, the mountains of Mont Veyrier, the Parmelan and La Tournette. It houses a fascinating museum that traces the history of the region. You can explore the castle's various rooms, including the knights' hall and the chapel, and soak up the medieval atmosphere.

 

Rue Sainte-Claire is home to the old town's not-to-be-missed market on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. And don't miss the Palais de l'Isle, a former prison situated in the middle of the Thiou, the river that runs through the old town. Now a museum, the Palais de l'Isle offers a fascinating insight into the history of the region and its exceptional architecture.

 

For a full local experience, hire a bike or take a boat trip to explore the area around Lake Annecy. A cycle path is designed to take you around the lake, stopping at public beaches, picnicking and through the communes of Veyrier-du-Lac, Menthon-saint-bernard, Talloires, Duingt , Sévrier and Saint-Jorioz. 

With its crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering mountains, the lake is a veritable nature park for water sports enthusiasts, such as wakeboarding, waterskiing, swimming, windsurfing, paddleboarding or canoeing.

 

Don't leave Annecy without sampling the local gastronomy. The restaurants and brasseries offer tasty cuisine using fresh local produce. Don't hesitate to try specialities such as Savoyard fondue, raclette or tartiflette, accompanied by a delicious glass of Savoyard white wine.

 

Annecy town centre is more modern, offering franchises, shops and fashionable boutiques for all your needs. The Courrier shopping centre is home to many of the big names that can be found all over France. There are also many of the well-known sports shops that you often see in the mountains or by the sea. On the lakeshore, the Imperial Palace is dressed in its finest, boasts a beautiful garden and houses a casino with a terrace overlooking the lake for gambling enthusiasts. 

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All in all, Annecy is a real gem, offering a multitude of activities to suit all tastes. Whether you're passionate about history, art, sport or gastronomy, you'll find what you're looking for in this idyllic setting.

 

So drop your bags and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Annecy.