Lake Annecy

Perhaps France’s most attractive lake and reputedly its cleanest, Annecy is surrounded by interesting and pretty villages, fine scenery and, at the top of the lake, the town of Annecy.

Annecy is most attractive in its own right, as well as being well placed for visiting neighbouring villages such as Menthon with its beautiful castle or Angon with its dramatic waterfall. For lake excursions, there are many varieties of short journeys or lake cruises on which you can enjoy the scenery of the area. Local sightseeing highlights include the Benedictine monastery at Talloires and the Semnoz Alpine Garden, both within a short drive.

Annecy
An excellent location for enjoying all aspects of a lakeside holiday, and well placed for touring further afield or walking in the surrounding hills. The town itself is is a delightful mixture of modern and medieval buildings, cobbled streets and canals, well festooned throughout the summer by floral displays, and endowed with many cafes and restaurants to relax in.
More active pursuits around the town include tennis, a variety of watersports and cycling; there is a lovely family cycle track built on the line of a disused railway which runs for almost the entire 12km length of the lake shore.

Talloires
Located on the eastern shore of the lake, just 14km from Annecy, the enchanting village of Talloires is steeped in history, with picturesque houses in narrow streets created around the 11th century Benedictine monastery.
There are natural bathing areas sheltered by the mountains, and excellent opportunities for gentle walks overlooking the lake; or just take time to relax and take in the scenery.