Things To Do In Annecy

The popular tourist resort of Annecy offers many attractions, ranging from medieval churches, monasteries and seminaries to printing plants, jewellery factories and its famous lake. The castle of the counts of Geneva is a must-see.

Venice of Savoy

Annecy is known as the ‘Venice of Savoy’ for its beautiful criss-crossing of canals. The banks of the Thiou Canal are especially popular for strolling in the evening. This river played a key role in the history of the city. In the Middle Ages, it provided energy for the craft industry of the region. In the 1800s, a gate system was developed for the river, allowing for the water level of the lake to be increased for the navigation of merchant vessels.

The medieval arcaded streets are well worth exploration. In the old part of the town, you can enter the inner yards of the 11th century castle as well as the old prisons dating from the Middle Ages. Modern shops offer gear hire for those looking to participate in the assortment of water sports at the lake. Luxurious cafés are perfect for afternoon refreshments. Downtown Annecy and the lake are connected by a canal that navigates through cobbled streets and charming houses.

Lake Annecy

This stunning lake rests at the foot of the Alps. Surrounded by mountain views, it was created 18,000 years ago from thawing glaciers and covers 27 square kilometres. Once very polluted, the lake is today famous as one of the cleanest lakes in the world and home to a wide range of wildlife including 20 species of fish. A range of water sports is offered here including scuba diving. A large fireworks display celebrates the lake during the first week of August.

Guided cruises on the lake are offered from April to late October. Tours depart between one and six times a day, depending on the season. Information is available at the Office de Tourisme, or you can book through the Compagnie des Bateaux du Lac d'Annecy (tel: +33 4 5051 0840).

Gorges du Fier

Nature buffs won’t want to miss the breathtaking Gorges du Fier, a river gorge. A gangway guides you through a water-cut narrow gully that opens into an expanse of boulders. The gorge can be reached by train or bus from Annecy and is just a few kilometres away. The site is open to the public from mid-June to mid-September, from 09:00 to 19:00; and from mid-March to mid-June and mid-September to mid-October from 09:00 to noon and 14:00 to 18:00. From mid-October to mid-March, the gorge is closed to the public. Hiking the gorge takes less than an hour. For more information, you can reach the Gorges du Fier office at: +33 4 5046 2307.

Nature walks

Besides the famous Lake Annecy and the River Thiou, Annecy offers nature lovers plenty of beautiful sights including the Semnoz forest, expansive Fins plain, Annecy-le-Vieux hillside and an assortment of mountains. Surround the area are the Veyrier (1,299 metres), the Semnoz (1,699 metres), the Tournette (2,351 metres) and the Parmelan (1,856 metres) mountains.

Chteau de Montrottier

Dating from the 13th century, Château de Montrottier is one of the main sights in Annecy. Panoramic views of the city and the mountains, especially Mont Blanc, are offered from the chateau’s tower. Inside, the tiny museum is mildly interesting with its displays of antiques, lace, pottery, Asian and African costumes, tapestries, 16th century bas-reliefs and armour. The chateau is open daily except from mid-October to mid-March, but you should check the opening times, as they vary between seasons.

Le Palais de I'lle

Images of Le Palais de I’lle have become the symbol of Annecy. This dank prison resembles a small chateau. It was constructed in the 17th century and is connected to Annecy by a bridge. From June to September, hours are 10:00 to 18:00; while from October to May, hours are from 10:00 to noon and 14:00 to 18:00. Admission is just a few euros and you can call for more information at: +33 4 5033 8730.

Museums

Musée Château d'Annecy is the only really worthwhile museum in town, although there are a few others to see if you have a lot of time on your hands. Most parts of Annecy have a view of the Queen’s Tower, the 12th century spire of the chateau housing this museum. Although the building itself is of little interest, the museum inside houses some interesting regional religious art and oil paintings as well as Alpine furniture. There are also displays on the geology and marine life of the region's lakes. Visiting hours are from 10:00 to 18:00, June through September, and 10:00 to noon and 14:00 to 17:00, October through May. If you’re really bored, the Alpine Museum contains small-scale models of many aspects of Alpine life, while the Museum of the Bell has some of the largest bells in the world.