Travel to Annecy

Travel to Annecy

Annecy, lies on the northern banks of the magnificent Lake Annecy, at the foot of the Alps. It is surrounded by alpine pastures and mountains and has incredibly beautiful views. Many tourists use Annecy as a base for touring the Haute Savoie and the areas surrounding the lake, including Geneva. The old town at Annecy is absolutely fascinating with medieval buildings, canals, quaint streets lined with restaurants and cafes, arcades, a market and several curio shops.

Transportation to Annecy

It is an easydrive to Annecy as there are many highways linking it to the rest of Europe. It is only an hours drive from Geneva and two from Lyon, France andthe region is also well serviced by several bus companies. The whole area is very beautiful and taking a train is the best way to view the beauty of the area, but it does take a fair bit of time. Several train companies provide services to Annecy but this is dependent on the point of departureas passengers may have to connect to different trainsfor part of the journey. There are airports at Lyon, France and Geneva, Switzerland and it is easy to continue the journey to Annecy via bus or train from both places. Once in Annecy the best way of getting around would be to walk or to hire a bicycle. Public transportation here is very convenient.

What to see

Although Annecy is fairly small there is plenty to see as the history of the town dates back to the 12th century. One of Annecys more popular sights is the imposing 12th century Palais de LIsle. The former prison sits on an island in the middle of Thiou canal, one of several canals that cut through the old town, and at certain angles appears to depictthe history of Annecy and the surrounding region. The chateau sits on the limestone mountains of Semnoz and overlooks the town and Lake Annecy. The Holy Source is a 16th century chapel and monastery that is famous for the beatification and canonization of St Francois and St Jeanne-de-Chantal whose tombs are enclosed within the chapel. The chapel was partly destroyed during the Revolution but was restored by its followers. Visitors should not leave Annecy without making a trip to Gorges du Fier, Annecys spectacular river gorge. There is a small walkway that passes through a tight chasm that was formed by the pounding waters of the river.

Day trips

A short drive away is Geneva, Switzerland with its stunning mountains and the famous Lake Geneva. Here visitors can enjoy several recreational activities including a ride on a paddle steamer, sailing and in-line skating along the banks of the river. The city is not far away and here you can visit vineyards with wine cellars where you can taste a variety of wines. There are also many medieval castles in the area that are worth visiing. There are alsonumerous restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

Activities and leisure

The lake at Annecy offers a wide range of water-sports including windsurfing, sailing fishing and waterskiing. Meanwhile the mountain ranges offer cycling, mountain biking, hiking and mountaineering, horse riding andcanyoning. Golfing enthusiastscan make use of the many impressive golf courses in the area. Many hotels provide, or will arrange, for these activities. The evenings and nights at Annecy are truly delightful and during August it becomes very celebratory with street musicians, jugglers and magicians entertaining on the banks of the canal. There are many cafes, restaurants and the occasional pub on theriverbanks where you can sit back and enjoy the entertainment. Shopping at Annecy is very pleasant, albeit a bit expensive, but it is impossible to not enjoy strolling down the small lanes in the old town of Annecy which arelined with alltypes of interestingshops.

Safety issues

Annecy, like any other popular tourist resort, does have its fair share of pick pocketing and snatch thieving. Visitors are always advised to take care of their belongings. Travel insurance will certainly bring peace of mind, especially in a country where the language is quite unfamiliar.