Top Things To Do In Annecy
This past month, a family member contacted me to tell me that there was this big family reunion happening in Annecy to celebrate my great aunt’s 60th wedding anniversary. Now, something I find absolutely amazing when it comes to family and the way I was raised is that no matter where you live, what you do, where you’re from, family is family. I haven’t seen most of these people for 15 years. In fact, I had never met half of the people who were there before, and guess what? It was absolutely brilliant and it felt like we all had known each other forever! In this blog post I’ll be listing the top things to do around Lake Annecy, which is located about 45 minutes from Geneva.
Lake Annecy
What to do?
Visit the Old Town of Annecy
This one is on top of the list. The town of Annecy is so so beautiful, you really can’t miss out on this one! Try to park your car at Parking de l’Hôtel de Ville, and you’ll be right next to the old town. Take time to walk around the old town and the canals. Sunday is market day, so if you’d like to buy some local produce and delicacies, make sure to get there early before the crowds arrive.
Indulge in anything cheese related
Yes, even if you’re visiting during the summer, you have to try cheese fondue, raclette, or reblochonnade, or all of them. I know it sounds weird because those dish are usually typical during the winter season when it’s cold, but the trick is to have them at a restaurant located on top of one of the surrounding mountains. Indeed, the temperature will get much colder at night, and you’ll be happy to be eating some confort food!
Get your tan on
There are multiple beaches all around the lake. The biggest and most popular one being in Annecy itself; this one can get very crowded early in the morning. If you’re travelling with a group of friends and want to play games, drink, etc., this will be perfect for you. On the other hand if you’re looking for more tranquility, I’d suggest hitting Talloires beach. If you’d like to push the experience a bit further, you could also decide to rent a boat, kayak or SUP paddle.
Try paragliding
Yes, you read right! When looking at things to do in Annecy, paragliding was everywhere on the internet. I must admit that I got immediately intrigued when I was searching for pictures before my trip, but once I got there and saw the lake, I knew I had made the right decision. Lake Annecy is majestic and will allow you to enjoy an unforgettable paragliding experience. if it’s your first time. If you’ve done that before, then I think it should still feature on your to-do list because the place offers the perfect conditions for that type of activity. I booked with Adrenaline Parapente which offers different types of flight depending on your level of experience. The price for first-timers is €85.
Go for a little hike
Lake Annecy is truly incredible because it is very long and narrow, and it is closely surrounded by mountains. I’d highly recommend driving around it and stopping at one of its many viewpoints. If you’re looking for a real hiking adventure though, try going to Réserve naturelle de Roc en Chère.
Where to stay?
If you’re on a budget, then I’d probably recommend staying at a hotel chain such as Ibis or Best Western (€100 a night approx.), because a lot of hotels in the area are quite expensive, and the cheaper ones aren’t the cleanest. Constructions are old, and there are weird smells. Otherwise you could always check if you can find something on Airbnb.
On the other hand, if you have no budget restrictions and want to treat yourself, then definitely book a room at Palace de Menthon (€300 a night). This place is unbelievably beautiful and offers some of the most epic views over the lake.
Where to eat?
Those who’ve been reading my blog probably know that I always go above and beyond to get good views. In fact, getting a good view is probably one of, if not THE most important criteria when I visit a new place. Here are two restaurant recommendations that offer both amazing views, and delicious food.
Les terrasses du lac d’Annecy
This one is located just outside Annecy, and is a little tricky to get to, but once you get there you shall be rewarded by the stunning panorama. They serve a variety of fresh local dish that are all delicious.
7 route du Semnoz
74000 Annecy
La Pricaz
Located in Col de la Forclaz, this restaurant is a perfect spot to watch the sunset. It’s also where most paragliding departures take place so you will most likely get a show while enjoying your dinner. They mostly serve traditional mountain food such as raclette and fondue.
La Forclaz
74210 Montmin-Talloires